Weight Watchers-Friendly Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix
Ingredients:

  • 3 cups Rice Chex cereal (6 points)
  • 1 cup whole grain oat cereal (like Cheerios) (4 points)
  • 1 cup pretzel sticks (3 points)
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (10 points)
  • 1/4 cup light butter or reduced-calorie margarine (4 points)
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar (or sugar substitute) (4 points with brown sugar; 0 points with sugar substitute)
  • 2 tablespoons honey (5 points)
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
    • In a large bowl, combine the Rice Chex, oat cereal, pretzel sticks, and chopped pecans.
  3. Prepare the Pumpkin Spice Coating:
    • In a small saucepan, melt the light butter over medium heat.
    • Stir in the brown sugar (or sugar substitute), honey, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined and the mixture is smooth.
  4. Coat the Chex Mix:
    • Pour the pumpkin spice mixture over the dry ingredients, tossing to ensure everything is evenly coated.
  5. Bake:
    • Spread the mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until the mix is golden brown and crispy.
  6. Cool and Serve:
    • Allow the Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, transfer to an airtight container for storage.

Serving Size:

  • Makes 12 servings (about 1/2 cup per serving)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: Approximately 110 kcal
  • Weight Watchers Points (Blue Plan): ~2-3 points per serving (depending on whether you use brown sugar or a sugar substitute)

Tips:

  • Low-Point Sweetener: Using a sugar substitute can help lower the points while maintaining sweetness.
  • Portion Control: Measure out individual servings to avoid overeating. This mix is addictive, so sticking to the portion size will help you stay within your points budget.
  • Nut Alternatives: To lower the points, consider reducing the amount of pecans or substituting them with a lower-point option like unsweetened coconut flakes or air-popped popcorn.

Benefits:

  • Flavorful & Satisfying: The warm flavors of pumpkin spice make this a comforting snack, perfect for fall.
  • Versatile: This Chex mix can be enjoyed as a snack, party treat, or even a topping for yogurt or ice cream.
  • Healthier Ingredients: Using light butter, whole grain cereals, and portioned nuts helps keep the mix satisfying but not overly indulgent.

This Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix is a delicious and lower-point option for enjoying the cozy flavors of fall without compromising your Weight Watchers goals! 🍂🥣