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Best Easy Fall Snack Mix with Pretzels & Pumpkin Seeds

fall snack mix - featured image

This one-pan snack mix combines crunchy pretzels, toasty pumpkin seeds, and pecans with a sweet-savory maple-butter glaze. It’s incredibly easy to make, totally addictive, and perfect for fall gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups mini pretzels
  • 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
  • 1 cup pecan halves
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the 3 cups of mini pretzels, 1 cup of raw pumpkin seeds, and 1 cup of pecan halves. Toss to distribute evenly.
  3. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. Whisk in the 1/3 cup of pure maple syrup, 2 tablespoons of packed brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Continue whisking until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth and bubbly, about 1-2 minutes.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Whisk in the 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and the 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (if using).
  5. Pour the warm spiced butter mixture over the pretzel mixture in the bowl. Gently fold with a spatula until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Pour the coated mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it into a single, even layer.
  7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, stopping halfway through to stir the mixture with a spatula. The mix is done when the pumpkin seeds are fragrant and lightly golden, and the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
  8. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the snack mix cool completely on the pan, undisturbed, for about 30-45 minutes.
  9. Once completely cool, break the mix into clusters with your hands. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.

Notes

For best results, use raw pumpkin seeds and fresh, crunchy pretzels. If using salted butter, reduce added salt to 1/4 teaspoon. For a nut-free version, omit pecans and add an extra cup of pretzels or pumpkin seeds. For a vegan option, use melted coconut oil or vegan butter. The mix can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Make ahead up to 5 days in advance.

Nutrition

Keywords: fall snack mix, pretzel snack mix, pumpkin seeds, pepitas, maple glaze, easy snack, party snack, Thanksgiving appetizer