This St. Patrick’s Day, set the perfect trap to catch a leprechaun for good luck with this Leprechaun Bait! Legend has it that if you leave out an irresistible snack, you just might lure a lucky leprechaun your way.
This easy, no-bake treat is a magical mix of crispy cereal, waffle pretzels, Lucky Charms, and M&M’s, all coated in sweet white chocolate. Whether you’re making it for a party, packing it into gift bags, or simply enjoying a fun holiday snack with your family, this recipe is sure to delight kids and adults alike!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet & Salty Perfection: The combination of crunchy cereal, salty waffle pretzels, and creamy white chocolate creates the perfect balance of flavors.
- Quick & Easy: Mix, melt, and enjoy; no baking is required!
- Kid-Friendly: A fun recipe for little helpers to get involved in the kitchen.
- Perfect for Gifting: Package in clear treat bags with a festive bag topper for a charming holiday gift.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Stays fresh for up to a week, making it great for prepping in advance.
Ingredients You Will Need
Here’s a quick rundown of the ingredients to have on hand.
- Corn Chex: Provides a light, crispy texture.
- Waffle Pretzels (1 cup): These fun, grid-like pretzels resemble little nets—perfect for “catching” leprechauns in this festive mix!
- Lucky Charms Cereal: Brings in that festive St. Patrick’s Day magic.
- Green and White M&M’s (¾ cup, divided): Adds a fun green touch, perfect for the holiday theme!
- White Baking Chips: Chose chips that melt easily.
- Vegetable Oil: Helps smooth out the melted chocolate for easy coating.
Before You Get Started
Be sure to buy white chocolate baking chips. They are specifically formulated to melt smoothly and easily, making them the best choice for a foolproof coating. They contain stabilizers that help prevent seizing and ensure an even consistency.
Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper before mixing to prevent sticking.
Have everything mixed in a bowl before you melt the backing chips.
How to Make Leprechaun Bait
Mix the Dry Ingredients & Melt the Chocolate
Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper and set aside. In a large bowl, combine the Chex cereal, waffle pretzels, Lucky Charms, Lucky Charms marshmallows, and ½ cup of the green M&M’s. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth. Be careful not to overheat—use 10-second bursts if needed to avoid burning.
Coat the Snack Mix
Pour the melted white chocolate over the cereal mixture and gently stir until everything is evenly coated.
Set and Serve
Spread the mixture onto the prepared sheet pan in an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of M&M’s on top. Let it set at room temperature or refrigerate for 10–20 minutes until firm. Break into bite-sized pieces and serve, or package in treat bags for a festive touch.
Free Leprechaun Bait Printable Bag Topper
To make this treat even more festive, we’re offering a free printable bag topper that you can easily download, print, and cut out! This adorable topper adds a charming touch to your treat bags, making them perfect for party favors, classroom gifts, or surprise treats for friends and family. Simply print it on cardstock, cut it out, fold it over the top of a filled treat bag, and staple or tape it in place. It’s an easy way to add a bit of extra magic to your Leprechaun Bait!
Tips and Variations
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free Chex cereal and gluten-free waffle pretzels.
- Swap the Chocolate: Try using milk or dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Add Extra Crunch: Toss in toasted almonds or peanuts for more texture.
- Festive Sprinkles: Add gold or green sprinkles for extra St. Patrick’s Day flair.
Microwave in short 30-second bursts, stirring after each, and reduce to 10-second bursts as needed as the chocolate chips get close to melting. Adding a tablespoon of vegetable oil to keep the chocolate fluid when warm is also a good idea.
Absolutely! Try mini marshmallows, peanut butter chips, or coconut flakes for a fun twist.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 2 weeks in a sealed container.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the cereal may lose its crispness.
Biblical Hospitality Reflection
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above.” James 1:17
Sharing a simple, sweet treat like Leprechaun Bait is a wonderful way to bless others and spread joy. Whether you’re making it for a classroom party, a church gathering, or just to surprise your family, this recipe reminds us that small acts of kindness can bring big smiles.
Do you have a question about the recipe? Feel free to ask in the comments below. I’m here to help!
Leprechaun Bait (No-Bake Snack Mix)
Note: Be sure to read through the recipe’s post for tips and details about this recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 cups corn Chex, or similar crispy cereal
- 1 cup pretzel twists, miniature
- 1 ½ cups Lucky Charms cereal
- ½ cup Lucky Charms marshmallows, picked out from cereal
- ¾ cup M&M’s, green and white
- 11- ounce white chocolate chips, bag
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
Instructions
Prepare the Pan
- Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper and set aside.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine the Chex cereal, pretzels, Lucky Charms, Lucky Charms marshmallows, and ½ cup of the green M&M’s.2 cups corn Chex, 1 cup pretzel twists, 1 ½ cups Lucky Charms cereal, ½ cup Lucky Charms marshmallows, ¾ cup M&M’s
Melt the Chocolate
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips and vegetable oil.11- ounce white chocolate chips, 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth. Be careful not to overheat—use 10-second bursts if needed.
Coat the Snack Mix
- Pour the melted white chocolate over the cereal mixture and gently stir until everything is evenly coated.
Set and Serve
- Spread the mixture onto the prepared sheet pan in an even layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup M&M’s on top. Let it set at room temperature or refrigerate for 10–20 minutes until firm.
- Enjoy! Break into bite-sized pieces and serve, or package in treat bags for a festive touch.
Notes
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free Chex cereal and gluten-free waffle pretzels.
- Swap the Chocolate: Try using milk or dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Add Extra Crunch: Toss in toasted almonds or peanuts for more texture.
- Festive Sprinkles: Add gold or green sprinkles for extra St. Patrick’s Day flair.
