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I’ve made this Puppy Chow Recipe more times than I can count, and it’s always the first thing to disappear at any party. With crispy cereal, a chocolate and peanut butter coating, and a dusting of powdered sugar, it’s the perfect sweet treat for any occasion.
“This is the kind of recipe that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.”
-Becky
This fun snack mix is perfect for a quick movie night dessert, but also makes great gift idea for teachers or neighbors. I like to put them in a jar or pretty bag, and add a fun tag, and it’s ready! Whether you use it as a gift, eat them yourself, or share, this recipe is perfect for holidays, game days, or anytime you’re craving something sweet and crunchy.
If you love simple no bake desserts, you might also enjoy Oreo Popcorn, Nutter Butter Ghosts, Minecraft Brownies, Candied Pecans, or these fun Fruit Skewers with a side of Fruit Dip.
Table of Contents
Ingredients You Will Need
- Rice Chex Mix Cereal, Corn Chex, or Chocolate Chex cereal (or a combination) – the classic base.
- semi-sweet chocolate chips – rich coating.
- creamy peanut butter – adds the nutty flavor.
- unsalted butter – adds richness to the flavor.
- vanilla extract – I love using this Homemade Vanilla Extract.
- powdered sugar – coats every bite for that classic finish.
Variations
- Try them Holiday style: Add in colored sprinkles or M&Ms candy to match the season.
- Make Nut-free Buddies: Swap peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
- Extra chocolatey puppy chow: Use Chocolate Chex for even more flavor.
- Make them extra Sweet: Use white chocolate chips for a sweeter flavor.
How to Make Puppy Chow (aka Muddy Buddies)
- Place the cereal in a large bowl and set aside.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave uncovered on high for 1 minute. Stir, then heat an additional 30 seconds or until you melt chocolate and ingredients are smooth when combined.
- Add the vanilla extract to the peanut butter mixture, and stir all of the ingredients together until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the mixture over the cereal and toss gently until the cereal is evenly coated.
- Transfer the coated cereal into a large resealable plastic bag.
- Add the powdered sugar, seal, and shake until the cereal is fully coated.
- Spread the Muddy Buddies onto baking sheet lined with parchment paper or wax paper to cool. Once set, store in an airtight container or in the refrigerator.
Why Is It Called Puppy Chow?
This sweet snack mix got its playful name because the sugar coated cereal pieces sort of looks like little bits of dog kibble. Although, it also looks like it’s covered it mud when you are tossing it in the chocolate and peanut butter mixture. So I can see why it is often called Muddy Buddies too. And while it may look like puppy food, this crunchy, chocolatey treat is made just for people, and has been a favorite party mix for decades.
Expert Tips
- Use a large bag: A two gallon resealable bag makes shaking easier and ensures even coating.
- Don’t overheat the chocolate: Heat in short intervals so the chocolate doesn’t seize.
- Double the batch: This snack disappears fast, so making extra is always a good idea.
- Store properly: Keep in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunch.
Puppy Chow Recipe FAQs
Yes, Puppy Chow, also known as Muddy Buddies, can be made up to 5 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for maximum freshness.
Absolutely! Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Let them come to room temperature before serving.
The most popular choice is Rice Chex, thanks to its light and crispy texture. Corn Chex works just as well, and Chocolate Chex can be used for an extra boost of flavor.
Make sure the cereal is well coated with the chocolate mixture before adding it to the bag. Shake vigorously until every piece is evenly covered.
If you have tried this recipe or any others from Celebrating Simply, I’d love it if you would leave a ⭐ star rating and share your thoughts in the ✍️ comments below. Your feedback means a lot!
Puppy Chow Recipe
Equipment
- Large Bowl
- Microwave safe bowl
- Ziploc Bag
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
- 9 cups Rice Chex Cereal, or Corn Chex or Chocolate Chex, or any combination
- 1 cup semi sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Place the cereal in a large bowl and set aside.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave uncovered on high for 1 minute. Stir, then heat an additional 30 seconds or until you melt chocolate and ingredients are smooth when combined.
- Add the vanilla extract to the peanut butter mixture, and stir all of the ingredients together until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the mixture over the cereal and toss gently until the cereal is evenly coated.
- Transfer the coated cereal into a large resealable plastic bag. Add the powdered sugar, seal, and shake until the cereal is fully coated.
- Spread the puppy chow onto baking sheet lined with parchment paper or wax paper to cool. Once set, store in an airtight container or in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Use a large bag: A 2-gallon resealable bag makes shaking easier and ensures even coating.
- Don’t overheat the chocolate: Heat in short intervals so the chocolate doesn’t seize.
- Double the batch: This snack disappears fast, so making extra is always a good idea.
- Store properly: Keep in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunch.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
What is hard about this recipe is that it’s hard to stop eating it, it’s so good👍👍👍
I love making this! It’s so easy, and is perfect for a quick dessert.