Irresistible Lucky Leprechaun Bait: The Ultimate Sweet & Salty Lucky Charms Snack Mix for St. Patrick’s Day
Get ready to capture hearts (and perhaps even a mythical creature or two!) with this delightfully sweet and salty snack mix, aptly named Lucky Leprechaun Bait or Lucky Charms Snack Mix. This vibrant, crunchy, and utterly addictive treat is overflowing with the magic of Lucky Charms cereal, featuring its iconic colorful mini marshmallows, rich chocolate M&M candies, perfectly salty pretzels, and chewy yogurt-covered raisins. All these wonderful components are lovingly tossed together in a smooth vanilla candy coating and finished with a generous shower of festive sprinkles, making every bite a celebration. Whether you’re preparing for a lively St. Patrick’s Day gathering, a cozy family movie night, or simply craving a fun and whimsical twist on a classic bowl of Lucky Charms, this recipe is your golden ticket to a truly enchanting snack experience.
Legend has it, if you manage to catch a leprechaun, you’ll uncover a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow, leading to untold riches. But let’s be honest, chasing elusive mythical creatures at the base of rainbows can be quite the quest, and often, an unfruitful one. We’re here to tell you that there’s a much more delicious and guaranteed way to entice those mischievous sprites – or at least delight everyone else around you!
This Lucky Leprechaun Bait party mix isn’t just a fun snack; it’s a strategic culinary creation designed to draw in all who encounter its magical allure. It might just be the secret weapon you need to “catch” that tiny mythical creature, or more realistically, earn the love and adoration of all the sweet-toothed individuals in your life, both young and old. Its vibrant colors and irresistible combination of textures and flavors make it an instant crowd-pleaser, perfect for sharing (or secretly hoarding, we won’t judge!).
Creating this leprechaun snack mix with Lucky Charms is incredibly straightforward, requiring minimal effort for maximum impact. This truly is the sweet and salty snack you’ve been yearning for, even if you hadn’t quite realized it yet! The delightful crunch of pretzels and cereal, the creamy sweetness of M&M’s and yogurt-covered raisins, all bound by a velvety vanilla coating, creates a symphony of flavors that is utterly irresistible.
If you’ve ever tried my highly addictive Candy Coated “Crack Corn” (and perhaps muttered a few choice words under your breath for being unable to resist its charm!), then prepare to fall equally, if not more, in love with this festive St. Patrick’s Day snack mix. Consider this fair warning: once you start munching on this Lucky Charms-infused treat, stopping can be a real challenge. It’s got that undeniable “Lucky Charms crack” quality that keeps you coming back for more. Just be sure that Lucky the Leprechaun doesn’t trick you into a flavor trap you can’t escape!
I first shared this beloved recipe back in 2015, and it has since become a cherished tradition in my home, made year after year for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. While the core recipe, a perfect balance of sweet and salty, remains unchanged and as delicious as ever, I’ve taken the opportunity to refresh this post with updated photos to inspire your snack-making adventures. The enduring popularity of this Lucky Charms snack mix speaks volumes about its undeniable appeal and ease of preparation.
Do you, like us, have a profound appreciation for the magical combination of sweet and salty flavors? Then you absolutely must explore some of my other favorite creations! Give my Sweet & Salty Brownie Recipe a try for a decadent dessert with a perfect contrast, or indulge in this nostalgic Copy Cat Salted Nutroll Recipe for another irresistible treat that hits all the right notes. These recipes perfectly complement the delightful profile of our Leprechaun Bait.
Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Recipe for Leprechaun Bait
This isn’t just any snack mix; this Lucky Charms snack mix recipe is a beacon of joy, a vibrant, crunchy, and irresistibly sweet and salty treat that’s perfect for countless occasions. Imagine the smiles it will bring to a family movie night, the delight it’ll spark at birthday parties, or the cheer it’ll add to school class parties. It’s a guaranteed hit with kids of all ages, and adults will find themselves reaching for “just one more piece” time and time again. Teachers will appreciate a thoughtful, homemade sweet treat, and your neighbors and friends will undoubtedly sing your praises when you share this festive creation. Especially for St. Patrick’s Day, but truly fantastic any day of the year, we love bringing this eye-catching snack mix to neighborhood gatherings, potlucks, and any event where delicious food and good cheer are desired. Its festive appearance alone makes it a showstopper, and its incredible taste ensures it disappears quickly!
One of the best features of this particular snack mix is its remarkable simplicity. It comes together effortlessly in your kitchen, requiring no specialized equipment or culinary prowess. You won’t need any fancy gadgets or obscure ingredients. In fact, all the components for this delightful Lucky Leprechaun Bait can most likely be found readily available at your local grocery store, making it a convenient last-minute treat or an easy-to-plan-ahead indulgence. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, combined thoughtfully, can create something truly extraordinary and universally loved.
What Delightful Foods to Serve at Your St. Patrick’s Day Party?
When planning a memorable St. Patrick’s Day celebration, a blend of traditional Irish fare and festive green-themed treats always creates an inviting atmosphere. While our Lucky Leprechaun Bait is a fantastic addition, pairing it with other delicious dishes will make your party truly spectacular. Classic Irish foods form the backbone of any authentic St. Patrick’s Day spread. Consider serving hearty Corned Beef & Cabbage, a quintessential Irish dish, slow-cooked to perfection. Complement it with slices of warm, freshly baked Irish Soda Bread, perfect for soaking up rich flavors. For adult guests, a warming Irish Coffee is a must, offering a delightful kick. You could also offer savory Reuben Sandwiches, piled high with corned beef, or a comforting Shepard’s Pie, a rich meat and vegetable casserole topped with fluffy mashed potatoes. These are just a few of the many wonderful options that pay homage to Irish culinary traditions.
Beyond the classics, I always love to inject a vibrant splash of green into the party menu wherever possible, embracing the festive spirit of the holiday. For beverages, these amazing Grasshopper Cocktails, with their refreshing minty hue, are an absolute crowd-pleaser. And for another sweet, verdant treat, my Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies are simply divine, tinted green to match the celebratory theme. The combination of traditional flavors and fun, colorful elements ensures your St. Patrick’s Day party will be a feast for both the eyes and the palate, with our Lucky Leprechaun Bait taking center stage as the ultimate festive sweet snack.
Is This Lucky Leprechaun Snack Mix Similar to Lucky Rainbow Chex?
It’s a great question, and there are indeed some delightful similarities between this Lucky Leprechaun Snack Mix and recipes like Lucky Rainbow Chex, primarily in their sweet-coated, party-mix format. However, it’s important to clarify that they are not exactly the same. The most significant distinction lies in the base cereal: Lucky Rainbow Chex typically uses Chex cereal, while our Leprechaun Snack Mix prominently features the beloved Lucky Charms cereal, with its unique oat pieces and iconic colorful marshmallows. This gives our mix a distinct texture and visual appeal, especially with those magical marshmallow shapes! The vibrant marshmallows are, after all, a key part of the “lucky” charm!
By all means, if you enjoy the texture and flavor of Chex cereal, you absolutely can incorporate it into this Leprechaun snack mix to change things up a bit, or even to stretch the recipe further. Both Rice Chex and Corn Chex would integrate beautifully, adding another layer of satisfying crunch without overpowering the existing flavors. You could experiment by replacing half of the Lucky Charms cereal with an equal amount of Chex, or if you want an even more substantial mix, simply double the candy coating mixture and combine equal parts Chex and Lucky Charms. This adaptability makes the recipe even more versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or what you have on hand. The goal is a delicious, fun, and easy-to-make snack, and adding Chex can certainly enhance that experience!
Essential Lucky Leprechaun Bait Ingredients
Crafting this enchanting snack mix is simple, thanks to a list of readily available ingredients that combine to create a symphony of sweet, salty, and crunchy textures. Below is a detailed look at what you’ll need to gather for your Lucky Leprechaun Bait. For precise measurements of each component, please refer to the printable recipe card located further down this page.
- Lucky Charms Cereal: The star of our show, this iconic cereal by General Mills brings its delightful toasted oat pieces and, most importantly, its magical, colorful mini marshmallows! These marshmallows are what give the “Lucky Charms” snack mix its unique character and vibrant appeal, making it a favorite among kids and nostalgic adults alike.
- Pretzels: To introduce that essential salty crunch that perfectly balances the sweetness. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility – feel free to use any type of pretzels you have on hand or prefer. Whether it’s classic mini twists, slender pretzel sticks, or those charming little circle pretzels often found lurking after holiday baking (especially Rolo pretzel-making season!), they all contribute wonderfully to the sweet and salty dynamic.
- Yogurt Covered Raisins: These add a lovely sweet and chewy texture, creating a pleasant contrast against the crispier elements. They also contribute a subtle tangy note that enhances the overall flavor profile. If yogurt-covered raisins aren’t to your taste, or if you don’t have them, they can easily be omitted without compromising the core deliciousness of the mix. Alternatively, consider dried cranberries or cherries for a similar chewy addition.
- M&M’s: For a burst of classic chocolate flavor and additional color. While plain milk chocolate M&M’s are my personal preference for their timeless taste and smooth melt, don’t hesitate to experiment with different varieties. For St. Patrick’s Day, you could seek out green M&M’s to boost the festive theme, or use peanut M&M’s for an added nutty crunch.
- Vanilla Flavored Almond Bark: This forms the delicious, smooth, and easily meltable candy coating that binds all the ingredients together. You’ll typically find almond bark in the baking aisle of your grocery store, often near chocolate chips or candy melts. It melts beautifully and sets quickly, providing that satisfying snap.
- Vegetable Oil: A small amount of oil is crucial for achieving the perfect smooth consistency in your melted almond bark, making it easier to coat the snack mix evenly. Canola oil or grapeseed oil are excellent neutral-flavored alternatives. For a subtle tropical twist, you could even use coconut oil, which imparts a faint, delightful coconut essence to the final product.
- Candy Sprinkles: These are essential for adding that final, festive touch and an extra layer of visual appeal. For St. Patrick’s Day, green sprinkles or a mix of rainbow sprinkles (perhaps with a focus on green, white, and gold) work wonderfully. St. Patrick’s Day themed sprinkles, if you can find them, would be even more perfect! A dusting of sparkling sugar also adds a lovely shimmer and a delicate sweet crunch, elevating the snack mix to a truly special treat.
How To Make This Lucky Charms Snack Mix: A Step-by-Step Guide
Preparing this delightful leprechaun crack snack mix is so incredibly straightforward and quick that you’ll find yourself wanting to whip up a batch for every occasion! Follow these easy steps to create a treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Step 1: Prepare Your Base Mix
Begin by gathering your main dry ingredients. Into a generously sized large bowl, gently pour your Lucky Charms cereal, pretzels, and yogurt-covered raisins. Ensure your bowl is large enough to allow for easy stirring later on. Giving these ingredients a quick, gentle toss together ensures an even distribution before the candy coating is added, preparing them for their sweet transformation.
Step 2: Melt the Candy Coating
In a separate medium-sized microwaveable bowl, combine the vanilla flavored almond bark squares and the vegetable oil. This oil helps to create a smooth, pourable consistency. Place the bowl in the microwave and heat it for 1 minute on high power. After this initial minute, remove the bowl and stir the mixture thoroughly. The almond bark may not be fully melted yet, but stirring helps distribute the heat. Continue microwaving in shorter 30-second intervals, stirring vigorously after each, until the almond bark is completely melted and beautifully smooth, without any lumps. Be careful not to overheat the mixture, as this can cause it to seize or become grainy.
Achieving that perfectly smooth, glossy texture is key for an even coating. Continue stirring until all the solid pieces of almond bark have dissolved into a luxurious, liquid consistency. This careful melting process ensures your snack mix will be perfectly coated with a delicious vanilla flavor.
Step 3: Combine and Coat
Once your almond bark mixture is smooth and ready, immediately pour it evenly over the top of your prepared cereal, pretzel, and raisin mixture in the large bowl. Work quickly but gently, using a sturdy spatula to stir and toss all the ingredients. Your goal is to coat every single piece as thoroughly as possible. Be mindful of the delicate Lucky Charms marshmallows; stir with care to keep them intact and beautifully colorful.
Continue stirring until you can see that the majority of the dry components are glistening with the vanilla candy coating. This ensures a cohesive and delicious snack mix where every bite delivers that coveted sweet and salty flavor.
Step 4: Spread and Decorate
Line a large baking sheet (or two, if needed, to avoid overcrowding) with parchment paper. This crucial step prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup. Pour the candy-coated mixture onto the prepared sheet and use your spatula to spread it out into a single, even layer. This allows the mix to set properly and ensures all pieces get equal air exposure. While the coating is still wet and tacky, immediately sprinkle your M&M’s generously over the entire surface. Follow this by coating heavily with your chosen sprinkles and/or sparkling sugar. Don’t be shy – the more festive, the better! This is where the “bait” truly comes to life with vibrant colors and delightful crunch.
Step 5: Set and Break Apart
Now comes the waiting game, which thankfully isn’t too long! Allow the snack mixture to set completely at room temperature. This can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the humidity and temperature of your kitchen. If you’re in a hurry, you can place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes to speed up the setting process. Once the candy coating is firm and no longer sticky, use your hands to break the mixture apart into satisfying, bite-sized pieces. You’ll hear a lovely crackle as you do, confirming it’s perfectly set and ready to enjoy! Each piece will be a perfect bite of sweet and salty goodness.
Tips for Success with Your Lucky Leprechaun Bait
To ensure your Lucky Leprechaun Bait turns out perfectly every time, here are a few expert tips:
- Don’t Overheat the Almond Bark: Melting too quickly or at too high a temperature can cause the almond bark to seize, becoming thick and crumbly. Low and slow in the microwave, with frequent stirring, is the key to a silky-smooth coating.
- Work Quickly: Once the almond bark is melted, it will start to set relatively fast. Have all your other ingredients ready to go and work efficiently when pouring and mixing to ensure an even coating before it hardens.
- Parchment Paper is Your Friend: Seriously, don’t skip this step! It makes spreading the mix easy and, more importantly, prevents it from sticking to your baking sheet, ensuring simple removal and cleanup.
- Customize Your Sprinkles: While St. Patrick’s Day calls for green and rainbow, remember this snack mix can be adapted for any holiday. Use red and green for Christmas, pastels for Easter, or orange and black for Halloween!
- Gentle Mixing: When combining the cereal with the melted coating, mix gently to avoid crushing the delicate Lucky Charms marshmallows. They are part of the charm!
LOVE IT? PIN IT!
If you’re already envisioning this yummy snack mix gracing your next party spread, don’t let this recipe get lost in the shuffle! Make sure to pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board before you move on. This way, you’ll always have this magical Lucky Charms snack mix recipe at your fingertips for future festive occasions or whenever a craving for sweet and salty strikes!
Lucky Leprechaun Bait Variations to Explore
While the classic Lucky Leprechaun Bait recipe is pure perfection, its versatility allows for exciting modifications and seasonal twists. Feel free to unleash your creativity and tailor this snack mix to your personal preferences or specific events!
- Lucky Charms Chex Mix: If you’re a fan of diverse textures, transform this recipe into a more traditional Chex Mix by incorporating either Corn Chex or Rice Chex cereal. You can easily replace about half of the Lucky Charms Cereal with an equal volume of Chex for a fantastic blend of crunch. Alternatively, for a larger batch with even more variety, consider doubling the candy coating mixture and adding equal parts Chex and Lucky Charms! This provides a heartier, more complex snack.
- White Chocolate Lucky Charms Mix: For a subtly different flavor profile, swap out the vanilla almond bark for luscious white chocolate. You can use good quality white chocolate chips, white chocolate melting wafers, or dedicated white candy melts. Simply melt them according to package instructions (often a microwave method similar to almond bark, or a double boiler for more control). This variation offers a richer, creamier white chocolate flavor that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients.
- Lucky Charms Trail Mix: Elevate this snack into a more wholesome (but still delicious!) trail mix by adding a variety of fresh nuts, seeds, and additional dried fruits. Think roasted almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or even a mix of dried cranberries, blueberries, or chopped apricots. These additions not only enhance the flavor and texture but also provide a boost of protein and healthy fats, giving this snack mix a true, energizing trail mix vibe perfect for on-the-go snacking.
- Lucky Charms Popcorn: For the ultimate movie night treat, combine the magic of this recipe with the fluffy delight of popcorn! You can achieve this by integrating this Lucky Leprechaun Bait recipe into my existing candy-coated popcorn recipe. The light, airy popcorn adds a new dimension of crunch and volume, making it an even more substantial and exciting snack.
- Seasonal Color Variations: Beyond St. Patrick’s Day, this mix is incredibly adaptable for other holidays! Use red and pink M&M’s and sprinkles for Valentine’s Day, red and green for Christmas, or orange and black for Halloween. The possibilities are endless for creating a festive snack mix for any occasion.
How to Store This Candy Coated Mix to Keep it Fresh
Proper storage is key to maintaining the delicious crunch and freshness of your Lucky Leprechaun Bait. Once the snack mix has fully set and been broken into pieces, transfer it to an airtight container. Stored at room temperature on your kitchen counter, it will remain fresh and delightful for up to one week. To extend its shelf life even further, you can store it in the freezer. When freezing, place the snack mix in a freezer-safe airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, ensuring as much air as possible is removed. It can be kept in the freezer for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply let it thaw at room temperature for a few minutes until it reaches your desired texture. This makes it an excellent make-ahead treat for parties or an easy stash for unexpected cravings!
Do I have to include pretzels in this Leprechaun snack mix?
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability, so rest assured, you absolutely can eliminate the salty pretzels if they aren’t to your liking or if you prefer a purely sweet snack. However, we personally believe that the pretzels are a crucial component, adding that irresistible sweet & salty contrast that truly elevates this holiday snack mix from good to utterly addictive. The savory crunch of the pretzels cuts through the sweetness of the candy coating, M&M’s, and Lucky Charms marshmallows, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile that keeps you reaching for more. If you do decide to omit pretzels but still crave a salty element, you could achieve a similar desirable effect by incorporating salted peanuts or other lightly salted nuts into the mix instead. This would introduce a different texture but maintain that delightful sweet and salty dynamic.
FAQs About Lucky Charms Cereal and This Snack Mix
Curious about the main ingredient in our magical snack mix? Here are some frequently asked questions about Lucky Charms cereal itself, offering a deeper dive into what makes it so popular and how it fits into your diet.
Are Lucky Charms good for you? Lucky Charms cereal, like many breakfast cereals, aims to provide some nutritional benefits. It is indeed made with whole grain oats as a primary ingredient and is fortified with 12 essential vitamins and minerals, which can contribute to a balanced diet. However, it’s also known for its sugary marshmallows. As with any treat, Lucky Charms can certainly be part of a healthy diet, provided you follow the golden rule of ‘everything in moderation.’ Enjoying this cereal or snack mix as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple is generally recommended for a balanced approach to nutrition.
Lucky Charms nutrition: Understanding the nutritional content is always helpful. Based on typical package information, one cup of Lucky Charms cereal (approximately 36g serving) generally contains around: 140 calories, contributing about 2% of your daily fat intake, 10% of your daily sodium intake, 11% of your total carbohydrate intake, and 7% of your dietary fiber intake. Notably, it contributes approximately 24% of your daily sugar intake. It also provides about 3 grams of protein, 10% of the daily recommended Vitamin D and Calcium, and a significant 20% of your Iron requirement. Please note that these figures are approximate and can vary slightly by product formulation and serving size. For the most precise and detailed nutritional information, always refer directly to the General Mills product packaging or their official website.
Is Lucky Charms Gluten Free? Good news for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary preferences! Lucky Charms cereal is indeed certified gluten-free by General Mills, as it is primarily made with oats and does not contain wheat, barley, or rye. However, when making this snack mix gluten-free, it’s crucial to be vigilant about all other ingredients. You will specifically need to purchase certified gluten-free pretzels, as regular pretzels contain wheat. Furthermore, I strongly advise you to carefully double-check the packaging labels of all other ingredients, such as M&M’s, yogurt-covered raisins, almond bark, and sprinkles, to ensure they are also certified gluten-free. While many of these might be naturally GF, manufacturers’ formulations can change, and cross-contamination can occur, so always verify the labels to keep your snack mix entirely safe for those avoiding gluten.
Discover Even MORE Irresistible Snack Mixes to Love
If you’ve fallen head over heels for the delightful crunch and flavor of our Lucky Leprechaun Bait, then you’re in for a treat! I have an extensive collection of snack mixes that are absolutely perfect for snacking, sharing, and celebrating any occasion. There’s a mix for every mood and every season, ensuring you’ll never run out of delicious ideas for parties, gatherings, or simply satisfying a craving. Dive into these fantastic recipes:
- Touchdown Snack Mix (pictured above): The ultimate game-day companion, packed with savory and sweet flavors that will have your guests cheering.
- Homemade Moose Munch Popcorn: A gourmet caramel popcorn treat, featuring nuts and chocolate, perfect for a cozy night in.
- Winter Wonderland Snack Mix: A magical, festive mix ideal for holiday gatherings, often featuring white chocolate and seasonal colors.
- Coconut Muddy Buddies: A tropical twist on a classic, with the delightful flavor of coconut in every powdered sugar-coated piece.
- Caramel Churro Chex Mix: Experience the warm, cinnamony goodness of churros in a crunchy, easy-to-make snack mix form.
- Mexican Hot Chocolate Puppy Chow: A spicy-sweet sensation, infused with the rich flavors of Mexican hot chocolate and a hint of chili.
- Better Than Sex Chex: An indulgent and highly addictive mix that lives up to its playful name, often involving chocolate and caramel.
- Explore ALL of my Snack Mix and Popcorn Recipes HERE for even more inspiration and delicious ideas to tantalize your taste buds!
Your entire family, from the youngest leprechaun-in-training to the most seasoned snack connoisseur, is going to absolutely adore this vibrant and **festive St. Patrick’s Day treat**! The truly wonderful aspect of this Lucky Snack Mix is its timeless appeal – you don’t need a special occasion to whip up a batch. It’s the perfect solution anytime you find yourself craving that irresistible combination of sweet and salty flavors, guaranteed to brighten your day. So, let’s stop wishing and start making this super simple, utterly delicious recipe that promises to bring a little bit of magic to your munching!
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Print Recipe
Lucky Leprechaun Bait (Lucky Charms Snack Mix)
Equipment
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Pyrex Glass Food Storage Containers with lids
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Rubber Spatulas
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Oggi Mixing Bowl, 4 Quart
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13×18 Half Sheet Pan
Ingredients
- 1 11.5 ounce box Lucky Charms Cereal
- 3 cups Pretzels
- 1 cup 8 ounce package yogurt covered raisins
- 1 cup M&M’s
- 6 squares Vanilla Flavored Almond bark
- 4 Tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2-3 Tablespoons Sprinkles/Sparkling Sugar
Instructions
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Line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper.
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Pour cereal, pretzels, and raisins into a large bowl.
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In a separate microwave-safe bowl, place almond bark squares and oil, microwave for 1 minute, stir and continue microwaving and stirring in 30-second intervals until melted and smooth.
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Pour over the top of the cereal mixture and stir to coat.
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Spread onto a cookie sheet, sprinkle M&M’s over the top, and coat heavily in sprinkles.
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Let dry and break apart.
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Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
Nutrition
This enchanting recipe for Lucky Leprechaun Bait was originally shared on March 10, 2015, quickly becoming a cherished tradition. It has been thoughtfully updated to enhance user experience, provide clearer instructions, and showcase refreshed photos on July 17, 2022, ensuring its magic continues for years to come.
