Christmas Puppy Chow

I still remember the first time I made Christmas Puppy Chow and it was during a snowy afternoon when I had unexpected guests and nothing fancy on hand except cereal chocolate and peanut butter. I quickly tossed everything together and dusted it with powdered sugar and just like that I had a festive snack that had everyone asking for the recipe before they even left.

Now it’s become a staple in our home throughout December because it’s crunchy sweet and easy enough to whip up in minutes even on the busiest baking days. I love how I can dress it up with red and green candies to match the holiday spirit and it’s always a hit whether I serve it in a big bowl at parties or portion it into cute bags for edible gifts!

Ingredients :

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Rice or corn Chex cereal – The base that holds all the yummy coating and gives the crunch!
• Creamy peanut butter – Helps bind the chocolate and adds a rich nutty flavor.
• Chocolate chips – Melted and mixed with the peanut butter for that classic puppy chow taste.
• Butter – Just a little to make the mixture extra smooth and glossy.
• Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
• Powdered sugar – Coats every bite in sweet snowy goodness.
• Holiday M&M’s – For a festive crunch and bright color that says “Christmas.”

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl – To toss everything together without making a mess.
• Microwave-safe bowl – For melting the chocolate peanut butter and butter.
• Rubber spatula – Makes folding the mixture together much easier.
• Gallon-size zip-top bag or paper bag – Perfect for shaking everything with powdered sugar.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To get all the proportions right.
• Baking sheet (optional) – If you want to spread it out to cool faster.

Instructions

Step 1: Melt the Chocolate Mixture

I start by adding chocolate chips peanut butter and butter to a microwave-safe bowl. I heat it in 30-second intervals stirring in between until everything is melted smooth and silky. Then I stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 2: Coat the Cereal

I pour the Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl and then gently fold the melted chocolate mixture over it using a spatula. I keep stirring carefully so the cereal doesn’t break but gets fully coated.

Step 3: Add the Powdered Sugar

Next I transfer the coated cereal into a large zip-top bag then I add the powdered sugar seal it and give it a good shake. I make sure every piece is covered with that snowy layer.

Step 4: Cool and Add Candy

I like to spread the puppy chow out on a baking sheet to cool for about 10 minutes. Once it’s no longer warm I toss in the red and green M&M’s and give it a light stir.

Step 5: Serve or Store

I serve it right away in bowls or pack it into jars and treat bags for gifts. It also stores well in an airtight container for several days.

Tips

I sometimes use almond butter instead of peanut butter for a nutty twist.

If you like extra crunch add in crushed pretzels or roasted peanuts.

White chocolate or peppermint chips also work great for a holiday variation.

Always wait for the mix to cool before adding the M&M’s or they might melt.

Ways to Serve

Pour into a big holiday bowl for snacking during movie nights or game nights.

Scoop into mason jars and tie with ribbon for thoughtful edible gifts.

Add it to a dessert charcuterie board alongside cookies and fudge.

Use it as a topping for ice cream or yogurt.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Christmas Puppy Chow ahead of time?

Yes! Christmas Puppy Chow stays fresh for up to a week in an airtight container so it’s perfect for make-ahead treats.

Can I freeze Christmas Puppy Chow?

Absolutely! Just place it in a sealed freezer bag and it’ll keep well for up to a month. Let it come to room temp before serving.

What cereal is best for Christmas Puppy Chow?

I usually go with rice or corn Chex because they hold up well and soak up the coating perfectly.

Is Christmas Puppy Chow gluten-free?

It can be! Just make sure to use gluten-free Chex and double-check your add-ins like chocolate chips and M&M’s.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you make a big batch of this sweet and crunchy Christmas Puppy Chow and enjoy every handful of it! It’s such a fun and festive recipe that brings smiles to every celebration and I’d love to hear how you like to customize yours.

Happy Cooking!

Print