20-Minute Sweet Potato Chips Chex Mix

Prep: 15 min28 servingsmediumSouthern
Sweet Potato Chips Chex Mix with Caramel Coating

A sweet and salty snack mix that combines crispy Rice and Wheat Chex cereals with sweet potato tortilla chips, all coated in a rich caramel glaze made from brown sugar and corn syrup. Miniature marshmallows add extra sweetness and texture to this crowd-pleasing treat. Perfect for parties, game day, or holiday gatherings, this easy microwave recipe transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible snack that balances crunchy cereals with the unique flavor of sweet potato chips.

Ingredients

28 servings
  • 4 cups Rice Chex cereal
  • 4 cups Wheat Chex cereal
  • 1 bag (5.5 oz) sweet potato tortilla chips
  • ¼ cup butter or margarine
    vegan butter1:1vegandairy-free

    Use plant-based butter for dairy-free version

    Full guide →
  • cup light brown sugar
  • cup light corn syrup
  • 1 teaspoon salt, divided
  • 2 cups miniature marshmallows
    dried cranberries1:1healthier

    Adds tartness instead of extra sweetness

    Full guide →

Instructions

  1. 1

    Line cookie sheet with waxed paper and mix cereals and sweet potato chips in large microwavable bowl

  2. 2

    Microwave butter, brown sugar, corn syrup and half the salt for 1 minute 30 seconds, stir, then microwave 45 seconds until bubbling

  3. 3

    Pour caramel mixture over cereal mixture and stir until completely coated

  4. 4

    Microwave uncovered for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring after every minute

  5. 5

    Spread mixture on prepared cookie sheet and cool 5 minutes until coating hardens, stirring after first 2 minutes

  6. 6

    Stir in marshmallows and sprinkle with remaining salt

Tips

Tip 1

Stir the mixture every minute during microwaving to ensure even coating and prevent burning.

Tip 2

Let the coating harden completely before adding marshmallows to prevent them from melting.

Good to Know

Storage

Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week

Make Ahead

Can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in airtight container

Serve With

Serve at room temperature in bowls or individual cups

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't skip stirring every minute during microwaving to avoid burning the caramel coating

Watch

Let coating harden completely before adding marshmallows to prevent melting

Substitutions

Dairy-Free Swaps

butter
vegan butter1:1vegandairy-free

Use plant-based butter for dairy-free version

Full guide →

General Alternatives

sweet potato chips
regular tortilla chips1:1basic

Any sturdy tortilla chips work well

marshmallows
dried cranberries1:1healthier

Adds tartness instead of extra sweetness

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I make this without a microwave?

Yes, melt butter mixture in saucepan over medium heat until bubbling, then toss with cereal mixture and bake at 250°F for 15 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes.

How long does this snack mix keep?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week for best texture and freshness.

Can I freeze this mix?

Not recommended as freezing affects the texture of the marshmallows and can make the coating soggy when thawed.