1. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3 minutes. If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheat option, let it run at the cooking temperature for a few minutes.
2. Mix the Coating
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. If you’re using brown sugar for added sweetness, whisk it in until fully combined.
3. Combine the Chex Mix Ingredients
Add the Chex cereal, pretzels, candy corn, M&Ms, and nuts (if using) to the bowl with the coating mixture. Toss everything together until the mix is evenly coated.
4. Air Fry the Chex Mix
Spread the mixture evenly in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to do this in batches. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
5. Cool and Serve
Once the Chex mix is golden and crispy, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool completely. This will help it crisp up further. Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Halloween Chex Mix:
- Avoid Overcrowding: If making a large batch, cook the Chex mix in smaller batches to ensure even crisping.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. You can add more garlic or onion powder if you like it more savory or a bit more sugar if you prefer it sweeter.
- Mix-ins: Experiment with different Halloween-themed candies or seasonal snacks to add variety and fun to your Chex mix.
Serving Suggestions:
- Party Snack: Serve this Halloween Chex Mix in a festive bowl or a Halloween-themed serving dish for a spooky touch.
- Gift Bags: Package the mix in clear cellophane bags with Halloween-themed ribbons for a fun treat to give away.
Enjoy your festive and crunchy Air Fryer Halloween Chex Mix! It’s a perfect blend of sweet and savory that’s sure to be a hit with everyone.