Craving something sweet, salty, crunchy, and completely irresistible? The White Trash Recipe is the ultimate snack mix that combines all your favorite textures and flavors into one glorious bowl. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday gathering, a movie night, or just need a dangerously addictive treat to munch on, this recipe delivers big.
Loaded with cereal crunch, salty pretzels, and colorful candy-coated chocolate pieces all enveloped in creamy white chocolate, it hits every note of nostalgia and comfort. It’s ridiculously easy to make, easy to customize, and even easier to devour by the handful. Let’s break it down so you can whip up a batch (or two).
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Making the White Trash Recipe is wonderfully simple, but having the right tools on hand makes the process even smoother:
- Large Mixing Bowl – You need ample space to toss all your ingredients together without overflow. This is where your entire mix will come together.
- Microwave-Safe Bowl or Double Boiler – For melting the white chocolate evenly without scorching it. Melting it smoothly is key for coating everything perfectly.
- Silicone Spatula – Ideal for scraping down the sides of your bowl and gently mixing the ingredients without breaking delicate pieces.
- Parchment Paper or Wax Paper – You’ll want this for spreading the mix out to cool and harden after the chocolate is added.
- Sheet Pan – Makes it easy to transfer and cool the mix evenly in a single layer.
These basic tools will have you ready to tackle this classic snack with minimal mess and maximum flavor.

Ingredients for the White Trash Recipe
- Rice Chex Cereal – This provides a light, crunchy texture that holds up beautifully under the white chocolate.
- Pretzels – Their saltiness cuts through the sweetness, and the crunch is a must.
- M&M’s – Pops of color and milk chocolate bites that add both fun and richness.
- Peanuts – Optional but highly recommended for that nutty depth and a bit of protein.
- White Chocolate Chips or Melting Wafers – The creamy coating that ties everything together. Smooth, sweet, and decadent.
- Mini Marshmallows – For soft texture contrast and extra sweetness.
Each ingredient brings its own character, balancing flavor and texture to keep each bite interesting.
How To Make the White Trash Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Mixing Zone
Set out a large mixing bowl and your parchment-lined sheet pan. Measure out all your ingredients to make the mixing smooth.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Add the Chex cereal, pretzels, M&M’s, marshmallows, and peanuts into your large bowl. Gently toss to mix evenly.
Step 3: Melt the White Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips or wafers in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until completely smooth. Alternatively, use a double boiler for slow, even melting.
Step 4: Coat the Mix
Pour the melted white chocolate over your dry mix. Use a silicone spatula to fold everything gently, ensuring every piece gets coated.
Step 5: Spread and Cool
Transfer the mix to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread it out in an even layer and let it sit at room temperature until fully set (about 30 minutes). You can also speed it up by placing it in the fridge.
Step 6: Break and Serve
Once the mix is hardened, break it into chunks and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
Serving and Storing the White Trash Recipe
This sweet-salty treat is perfect for parties, road trips, or gifting. Serve it in festive bowls, or package in clear bags tied with ribbon for a homemade gift that never disappoints. It also makes a fun addition to cookie trays during the holidays.
Store your White Trash in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Avoid humid areas to keep the crunch intact. If your space is warm, pop it in the fridge to prevent melting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of white chocolate should I use?
Use high-quality white chocolate chips or melting wafers for the smoothest coating. Almond bark is also a great option.
Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Absolutely! Just leave out the peanuts. You can add extra pretzels or cereal to maintain volume.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes! Once hardened, store portions in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Let it thaw at room temp before serving.
Can I substitute ingredients?
Of course. Swap out M&M’s for mini peanut butter cups, use different cereals, or add candy canes for a holiday twist.
How long does it take to harden?
At room temperature, about 30 minutes. In the fridge, it can set in as little as 15 minutes.
Can I double the batch?
Yes, and you probably should. Just make sure to use a very large mixing bowl or mix in two batches.
Want More Snack Mix Ideas?
You might also enjoy the Meaty Texas Trash Dip if you’re craving something hot and savory. For a twist on traditional, the Mexican White Trash Casserole is a fun comfort dish with layered flavors.
Looking for quick snacks? Check out the Cheeseburger Sliders or Loaded Tater Tot Appetizers — perfect for parties and game days. And if you’re into nostalgic treats, the Raspberry Crescent Rolls offer a fruity, flaky bite.
Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out
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If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you add your own twist? Did the kids devour it in five minutes? Leave a comment below — and don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest at LadyPlate for more sweet and savory inspiration!

White Trash Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About 10 cups
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
White Trash is the ultimate sweet-and-salty snack mix that’s dangerously easy to make and endlessly addictive. This classic treat combines crunchy cereals, salty pretzels, candy, and creamy white chocolate into one big irresistible bowl. Perfect for holiday parties, edible gifts, or just snacking by the handful.
Ingredients
6 cups Rice Chex cereal
2 cups mini pretzels
1 ½ cups M&M’s
1 cup salted peanuts (optional)
2 cups mini marshmallows
12 ounces white chocolate chips or melting wafers
Instructions
1. Line a large sheet pan with parchment or wax paper and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Rice Chex cereal, pretzels, M&M’s, mini marshmallows, and peanuts.
3. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully smooth.
4. Pour the melted white chocolate over the dry mixture. Gently fold using a silicone spatula until all pieces are well coated.
5. Spread the coated mix onto the prepared sheet pan in an even layer.
6. Allow it to cool and set completely at room temperature (about 30 minutes) or refrigerate for 15 minutes for faster setting.
7. Once hardened, break into chunks and store in an airtight container.
Notes
Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and non-stick cooling.
For extra flair, add crushed candy canes or sprinkles for holidays.
Stir gently to avoid crushing the cereal and pretzels while mixing in chocolate.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack Mix
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg


