Can I make Bunny Bait without nuts for allergy concerns?

Absolutely! Simply omit the peanuts and add more cereal or pretzels to maintain the right ratio. You might also consider adding allergen-free substitutes like pumpkin seeds or more M&M's if they meet your dietary needs.

My white chocolate seized up when melting. What happened?

White chocolate is sensitive to heat and moisture. It likely got too hot or had contact with water. If this happens, you'll need to start over with fresh chocolate. Keep the heat low and gentle, and make sure all utensils are completely dry.

How far in advance can I make this for an Easter party?

For optimal freshness and texture, I recommend making Bunny Bait no more than 2-3 days before your event. Store it in an airtight container until you're ready to serve.

Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?

Yes! While white chocolate gives this mix its classic "Bunny Bait" look, you can absolutely use milk or dark chocolate for a different flavor profile. The process remains the same, just be aware that melting times may vary slightly.

Bunny Bait Recipe - YummyHere

Name: Bunny Bait Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Dry Mixture:; 2 cups pretzels; 2 cups Honey Nut Cheerios; 3 cups Chex rice or corn; 1/2 cup salted peanuts; 1 cup pastel M&M’s (Easter M&Ms); 1/2 cup pastel sprinkles; Topping:; 10 ounces white chocolate (Ghirardelli wafers recommended)

This irresistible Bunny Bait is a festive, sweet-and-salty snack mix that’s perfect for Easter celebrations or spring gatherings! With colorful pastel M&M’s, crunchy cereal, pretzels, and a delicious white chocolate coating, this no-bake treat comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s impossible to stop munching on this delightful mix that both kids and adults will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super Simple: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe is practically foolproof—perfect for busy holiday preparations.
Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
Kid-Friendly: Children love helping make this colorful treat—from mixing the ingredients to sprinkling the toppings.
Perfect for Gifting: Package this festive mix in cellophane bags tied with pastel ribbons for adorable Easter gifts or party favors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chex Cereal: Creates the perfect base with its light, crunchy texture and ability to hold the white chocolate coating beautifully.
Honey Nut Cheerios: Adds a subtle sweetness and different shape to make the mix more interesting both visually and texturally.
Pretzels: Provides that perfect salty contrast that makes this snack mix utterly addictive.
Salted Peanuts: Brings in protein and that rich, nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweet chocolate.
Pastel M&M’s: These spring-colored chocolates add festive pops of color and chocolatey goodness throughout the mix.
White Chocolate: Serves as the “glue” that holds everything together while adding creamy sweetness. High-quality white chocolate like Ghirardelli makes a noticeable difference in taste.
Pastel Sprinkles: The finishing touch that makes this treat truly Easter-worthy and adds extra crunch and sweetness.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Different Mix-Ins

Swap in Cheerios, Golden Grahams, or any cereal you love
Try different nuts like almonds or cashews
Add popcorn for extra crunch
Include mini marshmallows for more sweetness

Chocolate Options

Use pastel-colored candy melts instead of white chocolate
Drizzle with milk or dark chocolate for contrast
Try adding a bit of coconut oil to your white chocolate for a smoother melt

Seasonal Twists

Halloween version: Use orange and black M&M’s with Halloween sprinkles
Christmas version: Red and green M&M’s with holiday sprinkles
Valentine’s Day: Pink and red candies with heart sprinkles

How to Make Bunny Bait

Step 1: Prepare Your Mix

Combine the Chex cereal, Honey Nut Cheerios, pretzels, salted peanuts, and pastel M&M’s in a large mixing bowl. Make sure your bowl is bigger than you think you need—this allows for easier stirring without spilling.

Step 2: Melt the White Chocolate

Place your white chocolate wafers in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 1 minute, then stir thoroughly. Continue melting in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each interval. White chocolate can be tricky—it burns easily and won’t recover if overheated, so patience is key here!

Step 3: Combine and Coat

Pour the melted white chocolate over your cereal mixture. Working quickly but gently, fold everything together until all the pieces are evenly coated. Don’t worry if some pieces have more chocolate than others—that’s part of the charm.

Step 4: Add Sprinkles and Set

Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment or wax paper. While the chocolate is still wet, generously sprinkle the pastel sprinkles over the top. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes until completely hardened.

Step 5: Break and Serve

Once hardened, break the mixture into bite-sized clusters. Your Bunny Bait is now ready to entice everyone who passes by!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Rush the Chocolate: Melting white chocolate requires patience—heat it slowly and stir frequently to prevent burning.
Line Your Surface: Always use wax paper or parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Cool Room Temperature: If your kitchen is particularly warm, consider placing the tray in the refrigerator for 5-10 minutes to help the chocolate set faster.
Make Extra: Trust me, this disappears quickly! Consider doubling the recipe if you’re serving a crowd or want leftovers.
Even Coating: For the best texture and flavor in every bite, really take your time to make sure all pieces get a good coating of white chocolate.

How to Serve

Easter Celebrations

Serve Bunny Bait in decorative Easter bowls or baskets as part of your holiday spread. It’s perfect next to your deviled eggs and ham!

Party Presentation

For parties, fill small paper cups or cupcake liners with individual servings—this helps control portions and makes for an adorable presentation.

Activity Pairing

This makes the perfect snack for Easter egg hunts or spring crafting sessions. The sweet energy boost keeps everyone hopping along!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Bunny Bait in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The crunchy texture is best preserved this way.

Freezing

This mix freezes surprisingly well! Store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. The chocolate will protect the cereal from becoming stale.

Gift Packaging

For gifting, portion the Bunny Bait into cellophane bags tied with pastel ribbons. Add a cute tag with storage instructions for the recipient.

FAQs

Can I make Bunny Bait without nuts for allergy concerns?

Absolutely! Simply omit the peanuts and add more cereal or pretzels to maintain the right ratio. You might also consider adding allergen-free substitutes like pumpkin seeds or more M&M’s if they meet your dietary needs.
My white chocolate seized up when melting. What happened?

White chocolate is sensitive to heat and moisture. It likely got too hot or had contact with water. If this happens, you’ll need to start over with fresh chocolate. Keep the heat low and gentle, and make sure all utensils are completely dry.
How far in advance can I make this for an Easter party?

For optimal freshness and texture, I recommend making Bunny Bait no more than 2-3 days before your event. Store it in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve.
Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?

Yes! While white chocolate gives this mix its classic “Bunny Bait” look, you can absolutely use milk or dark chocolate for a different flavor profile. The process remains the same, just be aware that melting times may vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

This Bunny Bait recipe is one of those magical treats that brings instant smiles—the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and crunchy in every handful. Whether you’re filling Easter baskets, treating yourself, or sharing with friends, it captures the fun and festive spirit of spring. The best part? It’s almost as fun to make as it is to eat, especially with little helpers. So gather your ingredients, clear some counter space, and get ready to create a treat that might just become your new spring tradition!