Easy & Delicious Bits N Bites Recipe: Perfect for Snacks!
Are you looking for a crowd-pleasing snack that’s easy to make and utterly delicious? Look no further than my homemade Bits N Bites recipe! This snack mix, also known as nuts and bolts or bits and bites, is a classic party food that has been a favorite of mine for years. Whether you’re hosting a game night, movie marathon, or holiday party, this Bits N Bites recipe is sure to be a hit with your guests.
What I love about this recipe is how simple it is to make. All you need is a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of prep time. You can even customize it to suit your tastes by substituting different types of cereal, nuts, and crackers. Plus, it can easily be made in advance and stored for several days, so you don’t have to worry about last-minute party planning.
But don’t just take my word for it – try making this homemade Bits N Bites recipe for yourself and see how it quickly becomes a go-to party snack. So let’s get started on making this tasty snack mix that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
As a lover of hosting gatherings and throwing dinner parties, I can confidently say that the Bits N Bites recipe is hands down my go-to party favorite. Whether you’re looking for a savory snack to accompany your cold brews or just something to munch on while watching your favorite flick, Bits N Bites are the perfect choice!
What makes this recipe so special is the sheer variety of ingredients that go into it. From cereal to pretzels to nuts and bolts – this recipe has everything one could possibly want in a tasty snack that’s both filling and satisfying. But let me tell you, the real magic in this recipe lies in my secret sauce mix that includes Worcestershire sauce, seasoning salt, garlic powder, and canola oil – creating an absolutely irresistible crunch when baked into every piece of Bits N Bites.
Speaking of baking, this recipe is incredibly easy to make! It only requires preheating your oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit, mixing all your chosen ingredients together in a bowl, pouring melted butter over it – yes you read that right, melted butter- and stirring until everything is well coated. Then spread it out onto a large roasting pan and popping it into the oven for around 45 minutes – leaving you plenty of time to whip up more snacks or tend to other party preparations.
But wait, there’s more! Not only are these Bits N Bites absolutely delicious and easy to make but they have some added health benefits too. With unsalted peanuts as part of the ingredient list along with Cheerios cereal and Shreddies wholesome options make this snack perfect for both adults and children alike.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a snack option that’s easy to make but equally as satisfying, then look no further than the Bits N Bites recipe. Trust me; your guests will be fighting over these addictive party bites until the last crumb has been devoured.
Ingredient List
Here’s a list of ingredients for making the famous Bits N Bites recipe, which is packed with crunchy cereals, salty pretzels, and savory nuts. You can easily find these ingredients at your nearest grocery store.
Cereals
- 3 cups Cheerios cereal
- 6 cups Shreddies cereal
- 2 cups salted nuts
Pretzels and Cheese Crackers
- 10 oz. pretzel sticks
- 1 large box (225g) Cheese Nips Goldfish crackers
- 1 large box (225g) Cheese Bits crackers
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon seasoning salt
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
Butter and Oil
- 1 cup unsalted peanuts
- 3 tablespoons canola oil
- 1 cup (2 sticks) of salted butter, melted
Homemade Bits and Bolts Recipe
(Optional If you want to replace some store-bought crackers)
Nana B Nuts and Bolts Mixture
(Makes about 12 cups)
– 4 cups Cheerios cereal
– 3 cups Shreddies cereal
– 2 cups mixed nuts (peanuts, cashews and pecans)
Seasonings and Sauces for the Homemade Nuts and Bolts Recipe*
- 2/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 to 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
The Recipe How-To
Now that you have all the ingredients prepared, it’s time to make some delicious Bits N Bites. This recipe is easy and quick to make, and can be adapted to your taste preferences.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a large bowl, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter in the microwave or on the stove. Add to it 1 tsp of garlic powder, 1 tbsp seasoning salt, and 3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together all the dry ingredients, which are:
– Homemade bits
– Homemade nuts bolts
– 6 cups Cheerios cereal
– 2 cups pretzel sticks
– 10 oz unsalted peanuts
Step 4: Add the Seasoning Mixture
Pour the melted butter and seasoning mixture over the dry ingredients, and mix well until everything is coated evenly.
Step 5: Bake in Oven
Spread the mixture evenly on a large roasting pan or baking sheet. Bake for approximately two hours, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Let Cool and Enjoy
Remove from oven and let cool completely. Once cooled, transfer Bits N Bites into an airtight container. Serve as a snack at your party or enjoy at home while watching a movie.
As you can see, making homemade Bits N Bites is super simple and requires just a few steps that even beginners can follow along with ease. Have fun with this recipe by adding your favorite snacks and trying different seasoning combinations. Happy cooking!
Substitutions and Variations
Ah, the beauty of recipes and cooking! There is always room to experiment with different ingredients and variations to cater to your taste or dietary needs. Here are some substitutions and variations you could try out for the Bits N Bites recipe:
Instead of canola oil, use olive oil or vegetable oil for a healthier option. Also, if you’re allergic to peanuts or want to avoid them, try substituting unsalted peanuts for cashews, almonds or any other nuts of your liking.
For a vegan-friendly version, use vegan butter instead of salted butter and replace Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce or tamari.
If you don’t have some of the listed cereals at home, feel free to mix it up with what you have on hand. Try swapping Cheerios for Rice Krispies or Wheat Chex for Corn Chex.
For a spicy twist, add in a teaspoon (or more if you like it hot) of cayenne pepper to the seasoning blend.
You can also add in dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries for a sweet and tart crunch.
Let your creativity run wild! You might just create your own version of the Bits N Bites recipe that becomes your signature party snack.
Serving and Pairing
Once you’ve assembled your Bits N Bites, it’s time to think about how you’re going to serve them. This recipe makes a great snack for parties, game nights or for munching on while watching your favorite show. You can also portion them out into small bags or jars for a fun and tasty on-the-go treat.
Pair your Bits N Bites with a cold beer or a refreshing cocktail like a Bloody Mary. The savory and salty flavors of this snack mix complement the bitterness of beer perfectly. If you prefer wine, opt for a full-bodied red like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Shiraz. These wines will balance out the saltiness and enhance the nutty and spicy notes of the Bits N Bites.
For a more substantial dish, use Bits N Bites as a crunchy topping for salads or as a garnish for soups. The mix adds an interesting texture and additional layers of flavor to any dish. You can also sprinkle some Bits N Bites over your favorite pasta dishes or stir-frys for an added crunch.
Overall, this recipe is versatile and can be paired with many different beverages and dishes. Experiment with different combinations to find what works best for you and your taste buds.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
As a party-loving chef, I know how important it is to have a recipe that can be prepped ahead of time. With this in mind, the Bits N Bites recipe is perfect for making ahead and storing for later.
To make Bits N Bites in advance, simply follow the recipe instructions until you get to step 5. Once the mixture is spread out on the large roasting pan or Bradley smoker, bake as directed and let cool completely. Then store it in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve.
To reheat the Bits N Bites, preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and heat in the oven for 10-15 minutes or until crisp again. Be sure to check on it frequently so as not to burn it.
Another great option for reheating and serving Bits N Bites is to use a slow cooker. Simply add your pre-made mix to your slow cooker on the warm setting at least 30 minutes before your event. This will keep your snack warm and fresh for your guests without overcooking or burning it.
When storing leftover Bits N Bites, simply place them in an airtight container or plastic bag and keep them at room temperature. They should stay fresh for up to a week. However, I must warn you, these tasty treats never last that long.
Tips for Perfect Results
Now that you have all the necessary ingredients and followed the instructions, there are still some tips that could make your Bits N Bites recipe stand out.
First, make sure the seasoning is evenly distributed. Mix the dry ingredients well in a large bowl before adding the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, and other liquid ingredients.
Second, use fresh and high-quality nuts and bolts. The quality of ingredients plays a significant role in the overall taste of the homemadeBits N Bites mix. If possible, choose whole-nuts and check their freshness to ensure they serve as a great snack.
Third, avoid overcrowding the pan when baking. The mix should be spread flat on a large roasting pan or two small ones to allow consistent distribution of heat. Crowding may lead to uneven baking and overcooking of some bits.
Fourth, keep an eye on oven temperature and cooking time. Follow the recommended temperature of 250 degrees Fahrenheit while baking; this temperature is low enough to prevent overcooking or burning of the mix. Check every 15 minutes to ensure nothing has gone wrong.
Finally, experiment with different seasoning combinations to create unique party mixes. For a hot and spicy recipe add chili powder along with garlic powder or paprika with cumin seeds for earthy flavors instead of using seasoning salt alone.
With these tips, you can achieve a perfect result from homemade bits and bites recipe that keeps everyone wanting more at any party or gathering you host!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Bits N Bites recipe is a fantastic choice for any party or gathering. With its delicious and savory blend of nuts, bolts, and seasonings, it’s sure to impress your guests and leave them coming back for more. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to make and requires minimal effort. Plus, with the ability to customize and adjust the ingredients to your liking, it’s versatile enough to suit any taste preference. So why not give this classic snack mix a try and see what all the fuss is about? Your taste buds will thank you!
Bits N Bites Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 cups Cheerios toasted oat cereal
- 9 cups shreddies cereal
- 9 cups Crispix cereal
- 4 cups unsalted peanuts
- 8 cups pretzel sticks
- 4 cups cheese sticks or 4 cups goldfish crackers
- 3 cups canola oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon seasoning salt
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Mix all dry ingredients together in a large roasting pan.
- Toss to mix.
- Mix oil, garlic powder, seasoned salt and worcestershire sauce together in a large measuring cup.
- Whisk together, it will want to separate, so keep whisking while you pour over dry ingredients.
- Mix thoroughly.
- Bake at 250 uncovered, for 1 1/2 hours Mixing every 20 minute.
- Allow to cool, enjoy!
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Anna is a culinary expert who specializes in grilling delicious BBQ dishes. She also enjoys sharing her recipes and experiences with her foodie community on her blog. She’s the total package for any backyard barbecue!