Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pan

• Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
• Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Make the Toffee Sauce

• In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with brown sugar and corn syrup.
• Let the mixture bubble for 3-4 minutes without stirring.
• Remove from heat and stir in baking soda and vanilla extract; the mixture will foam up.

Step 3: Coat the Cereal

• Place Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl.
• Pour the warm toffee sauce over the cereal, gently stirring to evenly coat.

Step 4: Bake the Mix

• Spread the coated cereal evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating and crispness.

Step 5: Add Toppings (Optional)

• Optionally, sprinkle chocolate chips and chopped nuts over the warm Chex mix. Stir to distribute evenly as the chocolate melts slightly.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

• Allow the mix to cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking it apart into clusters.

Variations

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper to the toffee sauce for a spicy twist.
• Different Nuts: Try using pecans, almonds, or walnuts for varying textures and flavors.