The holidays always have us in a rush. Between trying to get the kids stuff ready for school, finals and then family time…I find that thinking about getting gifts together is a bit of a chore. So, years ago I started experimenting with snacks. Rather than baking dozens and dozens of cookies I realized a tin of snacks was loved just as much. Now do not get me wrong. I still do cookies and sweets but not in mass amounts. These are snacks that are easy to make and take little to no time. The best part is packaging…use a tin or a decorative cellophane bag. It is simple! Here are this years treats I have come up with:
Reindeer Munch
1 bag of Bugle snacks
1 bag Fritos
1 bag Skinny Pop
1 can cashews
1 bag holiday M&M’s
2 packages white candy melts, melted (about 2 cups)
Holiday Sprinkles
Place all of the snacks in a large bowl except for the sprinkles and M&M’s. Melt the white candy melts in a bowl till smooth. Pour the white chocolate over the dry ingredients and toss with a wooden spoon. Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Place the much onto the parchment paper and then add M&M’s and sprinkles. Allow this to harden and then store in airtight containers.
Sassy Firecrackers
1 package (1 oz.) Ranch Dressing Mix
2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 teaspoon ground red pepper
1 teaspoon chili seasoning
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 cup vegetable or canola oil
2 boxes mini saltine crackers
Place the saltines in a large ZipLock bag. In a small bowl mix together all of the spices, oil and ranch mix till combined. Pour the spice mixture over the crackers and seal the bag. Shake the bag to evenly coat all of the crackers. Allow the crackers to sit in the bag overnight. Store in airtight tins!