Chocolate Coconut Chex Mix

If you’re craving a snack that’s both sweet and satisfyingly crunchy, look no further than this Chocolate Coconut Chex Mix. Combining the crispy texture of Chex cereal with rich chocolate, the tropical hint of coconut extract, and the delightful chew of shredded sweetened coconut, this mix is a crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re packing it for a road trip, sharing it at a party, or just indulging in a little treat at home, this recipe is straightforward, quick, and utterly delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chocolate Coconut Chex Mix stands out because it strikes the perfect balance between sweet and crunchy. The chocolate chips melt into the cereal, coating every bite with luscious sweetness, while the coconut extract and shredded coconut add a tropical flair that elevates the snack beyond ordinary. It’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and can be whipped up in under 15 minutes. Plus, it’s versatile—perfect for gifting during holidays or simply enjoying as a cozy night-in treat. The best part? You can use either Rice Chex or Corn Chex cereal, giving you flexibility based on what you have on hand.

Ingredient Rundown

• 9 cups Rice Chex cereal (Corn Chex works great too) – the crispy base of this mix.
• 3 cups chocolate chips – semi-sweet or milk chocolate, depending on your preference.
• 3/4 teaspoon coconut extract – adds a fragrant coconut flavor without overpowering.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sweetened coconut – adds chewiness and tropical sweetness.
• 1/3 cup powdered sugar – for a light dusting that gives a touch of sweetness and makes the mix irresistible.

This simple ingredient list means you can easily find everything at your local grocery store without hunting down specialty items.

Appliances & Accessories

• Large mixing bowl: For combining the cereal and coconut.
• Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler: To gently melt the chocolate chips.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: To stir the melted chocolate and coat the cereal evenly.
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper: To spread out the mix for cooling and setting.
• Sifter or fine mesh strainer: To evenly dust the powdered sugar over the mix.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

Having these tools ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Mastering Chocolate Coconut Chex Mix: How-To

Step 1: Prep Your Workspace

Start by lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will be where you spread the mix to cool and set. Measure out all your ingredients to have them ready for assembly.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

Place the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted. Alternatively, use a double boiler on the stove to melt the chocolate gently, which helps prevent scorching.

Step 3: Add Coconut Extract

Once the chocolate is melted, stir in the 3/4 teaspoon of coconut extract until fully combined. This step infuses the chocolate with a lovely, subtle coconut aroma and flavor.

Step 4: Combine Cereal and Coconut

Pour the 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal (or Corn Chex if you prefer) and 1 1/2 cups shredded sweetened coconut into a large mixing bowl. Gently toss them to combine evenly.

Step 5: Coat the Mix

Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal and coconut mixture. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece of cereal and shred of coconut is coated with chocolate.

Step 6: Spread and Cool

Transfer the chocolate-coated mix onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out evenly. Allow it to cool at room temperature until the chocolate hardens, about 20-30 minutes. You can speed this up by placing it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes.

Step 7: Dust with Powdered Sugar

Once the mix is set, lightly sift 1/3 cup powdered sugar over the top. Toss gently to coat the pieces with a delicate sugary dusting, adding sweetness and a beautiful finish.

Step 8: Serve or Store

Your Chocolate Coconut Chex Mix is ready to enjoy! Serve immediately or store in an airtight container to keep fresh.

Fresh Seasonal Changes

• Add dried cranberries or cherries in winter for a festive touch.
• Mix in chopped toasted almonds or pecans during fall for extra crunch.
• Substitute shredded coconut with freeze-dried coconut flakes for a lighter texture in summer.
• Incorporate a sprinkle of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for cozy seasonal warmth.

These simple tweaks can tailor the mix perfectly to the time of year, making it feel fresh and exciting every time you make it.

Missteps & Fixes

• Chocolate too thick or clumpy: Reheat gently in short bursts, stirring frequently to smooth it out.
• Mix is too sticky: Try letting it cool fully before dusting powdered sugar. If still sticky, refrigerate longer.
• Coconut extract overpowering: Use less next time; 3/4 teaspoon is ideal for balance.
• Cereal soggy after coating: Ensure chocolate isn’t too warm when mixing; slightly cooled melted chocolate prevents sogginess.

These common issues are easy to troubleshoot with a little patience.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This Chocolate Coconut Chex Mix stores beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator where it will last for up to two weeks without losing texture or flavor. It’s perfect for prepping ahead of time for parties, road trips, or as a handy snack at work or school. Just portion it into small bags or containers for grab-and-go convenience.

Ask & Learn

Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate chips will add a richer, slightly more intense chocolate flavor to your mix. It pairs wonderfully with the coconut and adds a bit of sophistication to the snack.

Is it okay to omit the powdered sugar?

Yes, you can skip the powdered sugar if you prefer a less sweet mix. The chocolate coating itself provides plenty of sweetness, but the powdered sugar adds a nice finishing touch that’s worth trying at least once.

Can I substitute shredded sweetened coconut with unsweetened coconut?

You can, but keep in mind that unsweetened coconut will reduce the overall sweetness and may alter the flavor balance slightly. If you use unsweetened, you might want to add a little extra powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey to compensate.

How do I prevent the chocolate from clumping when mixing?

The key is to make sure the melted chocolate is smooth and slightly cooled but still pourable before mixing with the cereal. Stirring gently but thoroughly helps ensure even coating without clumps.

One Pan, More Ideas

• Try the delightful Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread With Walnuts for a moist, chocolatey treat with a veggie twist.
• For a rich, decadent dessert, don’t miss the Fig Jam Chocolate Truffle Squares that perfectly combine fruity and chocolate flavors.
• Experiment by adding roasted nuts or seeds to your Chex mix for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Mix in some mini marshmallows for a fun, gooey texture contrast.

These ideas keep your snack game fresh and exciting.

Serve & Enjoy

Serve your Chocolate Coconut Chex Mix in a large bowl at gatherings, or portion into festive bags for gifting. It pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or even a glass of cold milk. Whether it’s a movie night, holiday party, or simple afternoon snack, this mix will quickly become a favorite. The crunchy texture, sweet chocolate, and tropical coconut notes make every bite irresistible—so don’t be surprised if it disappears fast!

Rich in flavor and easy to customize, this recipe is a wonderful addition to your snack repertoire. Enjoy the ease and joy of making your own chocolatey treat that feels indulgent but is simple enough to whip up anytime.

Share on Pinterest