Sweet and savory mix with black cocoa cereal, caramel popcorn, chocolate, and festive gold touches.
# Components:
→ Crunchy Base
01 - 3 cups black cocoa cereal (e.g., Oreo Os or similar)
02 - 2 cups mini pretzel twists
03 - 1 cup caramel popcorn
→ Gold & Black Accents
04 - 3/4 cup dark chocolate chips
05 - 1/2 cup chocolate-covered espresso beans (optional for adults)
06 - 1/2 cup gold candy-coated chocolates (e.g., gold M&Ms)
07 - 1/2 cup gold star sprinkles or edible glitter
→ Sweet & Savory Coating
08 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter
09 - 2 tablespoons honey
10 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
# Directions:
01 - Preheat the oven to 325°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, mix black cocoa cereal, mini pretzel twists, and caramel popcorn.
03 - Melt unsalted butter over low heat in a small saucepan. Stir in honey and sea salt until smooth.
04 - Drizzle the butter mixture evenly over the combined ingredients and toss gently to coat all pieces.
05 - Spread the coated mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until fragrant and beginning to crisp.
06 - Remove from oven and allow the mix to cool completely on the baking sheet.
07 - Transfer the cooled mix to a large bowl. Incorporate dark chocolate chips, chocolate-covered espresso beans, gold candy-coated chocolates, and gold star sprinkles. Toss gently until evenly combined.
08 - Portion into bowls or festive bags for serving or gifting.
