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White Trash is one of those addictive sweet and salty treats that shows up at every holiday party or casual get-together in our family Its quick to make no baking needed and the blend of crispy cereal chocolatey candies and salty peanuts is a crowd-pleaser right out of the bowl
I first discovered this treat at a neighbor’s cookie exchange and now it is impossible not to make it all season long Everyone always asks for the recipe and those colorful MMs make it festive for any occasion
Ingredients
- Corn CHEX cereal: for crunch and a light base opt for fresh unopened bags for freshness
- Cheerios cereal: balances out the texture and gives a subtle sweetness choose the classic plain variety
- Mini pretzel twists: to add a salty bite select unbroken pretzels for best presentation
- Dry roasted salted peanuts: lend richness and keep the mix extra snackable look for lightly toasted ones in resealable containers
- Regular MMs candies: classic chocolate flavor and a pop of color test a few out for freshness and bold colors before mixing in
- Vanilla almond bark candy coating: melts to a smooth creamy texture holds everything together check the package to be sure it has a strong vanilla aroma
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Tray:
- Line a half-sheet rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside This makes cleanup easy and the mix will not stick
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a really big mixing bowl combine Corn CHEX Cheerios mini pretzels peanuts and 2 cups of the MMs Gently toss with your hands or a large spatula so everything is evenly distributed
- Melt the Coating:
- Place the vanilla almond bark in a microwave safe bowl Heat in 30 second intervals stirring really well each time until the coating is smooth and completely melted Watch it closely and avoid overheating
- Coat the Mixture:
- Immediately pour the melted almond bark over the bowl of cereal and candy mixture Using a big spatula fold the mix from the bottom up until everything is well coated Try to be quick since the coating will begin to stiffen as it cools
- Spread and Top:
- Scrape the coated mix onto your prepared baking sheet Spread into an even layer using the spatula Quickly sprinkle up to half a cup more MMs over the top so they stick before the almond bark sets
- Let it Set:
- Allow the tray to sit at room temperature for at least one hour or until the coating is completely firm and dry Do not chill as this can cause condensation
- Break and Serve:
- Once set break into rough bite sized clusters with your hands Move to a serving bowl or divide into cellophane bags for sharing or gifting
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The peanut M&M blend is always my favorite especially the ones stuck together with extra coating My niece and I love digging through the bowl to find the oversized clusters and the colorful candies always draw kids to the snack table at our family gatherings
Storage Tips
Keep White Trash in a tightly sealed container at room temperature away from direct sunlight For best texture and freshness eat within a week Avoid storing in the refrigerator which can make the coating sweat and turn sticky If packaging for gifts be sure the clusters are completely set before bagging
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap in Rice Chex or Crispix for the Corn CHEX if you want a lighter taste Any unsweetened oat ring cereal works in place of Cheerios For nut allergies substitute sunflower seeds or omit entirely Colored candy coated chocolates like Reeses Pieces can be swapped in for MMs Almond bark can usually be replaced with white chocolate chips plus a teaspoon of coconut oil melted together
Serving Suggestions
Pile into a pretty serving bowl for a party tray or wrap clusters in cellophane with ribbons for gifting This snack is a hit at kids parties and makes festive contributions to cookie platters or bake sales For a holiday touch mix in red green or pastel colored candies based on the season
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Cultural Context
Despite the funny name White Trash has been a beloved no fuss treat at American potlucks and bake sales for decades The blend of sweet salty and crunchy represents the playful side of homemade snacking and the recipe likely gets passed around because it is so easy and flexible I remember neighbors bringing it to every holiday open house right alongside their family fudge
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different types of cereal?
Yes, you can swap out Corn CHEX or Cheerios for your preferred cereal varieties to customize the mix.
- → Is it possible to substitute the almond bark?
White chocolate chips or melting wafers also work well if vanilla almond bark isn't available.
- → How do I prevent the almond bark from hardening too quickly?
Prepare all ingredients in advance and work quickly after melting to coat the mixture evenly before it sets.
- → How long does the mix stay fresh?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness and texture.
- → Can this snack be made ahead for parties or gifting?
Absolutely—it sets within an hour, making it an excellent choice for preparing in advance for events or gifts.