Thai Pumpkin Chex Mix with Curry Paste and Coconut
A bold twist on classic Chex mix that combines sweet pumpkin and warm spices with the heat of Thai red curry paste. Corn Chex cereal, cashews, and coconut flakes are coated in a maple-pumpkin glaze spiked with curry paste, then baked until crispy. Fresh popcorn added at the end provides extra crunch. This sweet-spicy snack mix offers an unexpected flavor profile that balances autumn comfort with Southeast Asian heat, perfect for parties or adventurous snacking.
Ingredients
- 8 cups Corn Chex cereal
- 1 cup whole roasted salted cashews
- 1 cup unsweetened large coconut flakes
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ½ cup real maple syrup
- 3 tablespoons canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie mix
- 3 tablespoons virgin coconut oil, melted
- 4 teaspoons Thai red curry pastesriracha1:2heat
different spice profile
- 4 cups popped popcorn
Instructions
- 1
Heat oven to 300°F and line 2 large rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper
- 2
Mix cereal, cashews, coconut flakes, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon and salt in large bowl
- 3
Whisk together maple syrup, pumpkin, melted coconut oil and curry paste until well combined
- 4
Stir wet mixture into cereal mixture until evenly coated
- 5
Spread mixture evenly across prepared pans
- 6
Bake for 40 minutes, stirring and rotating pans halfway through
- 7
Stir 2 cups popcorn into each pan
- 8
Bake 5 minutes longer
- 9
Cool completely before serving or storing
Tips
Make sure coconut oil is fully melted and incorporated to prevent clumping in the mixture.
Don't skip the cooling time - the mix becomes much crispier as it cools completely.
Store in an airtight container to maintain crispness for up to one week.
Good to Know
Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Can be made up to 3 days ahead for best crispness.
Serve at room temperature as a snack or party mix.
Common Mistakes
Don't add popcorn too early or it will become soggy during baking.
Ensure coconut oil is fully melted to avoid uneven coating.
Substitutions
Nut-Free Alternatives
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I make this without the curry paste?
Yes, omit the curry paste for a sweet pumpkin spice version, or substitute with a pinch of cayenne pepper for mild heat.
What if I don't have pumpkin pie spice?
Mix 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon each nutmeg and ginger, and a pinch of cloves and allspice.
How long does this keep?
Store in an airtight container for up to one week at room temperature for best crispness and flavor.