Christmas Puppy Chow is a festive twist on the classic snack mix that everyone loves. It’s made with crunchy cereal coated in melted chocolate and peanut butter, then dusted with a generous layer of powdered sugar. The holiday version often includes colorful sprinkles or red and green candy pieces, making it as fun to look at as it is to eat.
I always find Christmas Puppy Chow perfect for sharing during holiday parties or just having around for a sweet treat while watching holiday movies. What I love is how simple it is to put together but still feels special and festive. I like to mix in a handful of crushed peppermint candies for an extra holiday kick that really wakes up the flavors.
One of my favorite memories with this snack is making it with family while Christmas music plays in the background. It’s a great little tradition because it gets everyone involved and leaves the kitchen smelling like chocolate and peanut butter. Whether you eat it by the handful or pack it in cute treat bags, Christmas Puppy Chow always brings a smile and a little holiday cheer.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice Chex cereal: This cereal is perfect because it’s light and crunchy. If you can’t find Rice Chex, feel free to use Corn Chex or even Cheerios as a good alternative.
Semisweet chocolate chips: Semisweet chocolate strikes a nice balance between sweet and rich. If you prefer sweeter or darker flavors, you can use milk or dark chocolate chips instead.
Creamy peanut butter: Smooth peanut butter helps the chocolate stick to the cereal. If you’re allergic or want a different flavor, almond or cashew butter works well too.
Powdered sugar: This coats the cereal to give the signature sweet, powdery finish. You can reduce the amount slightly for less sweetness or try coconut sugar powder as a substitute.
Festive sprinkles: Red and green sprinkles add a fun holiday touch. If you don’t have sprinkles, crushed peppermint candies or colored mini M&Ms are tasty swaps.
How Do I Get Every Piece of Cereal Evenly Coated?
Coating the cereal evenly ensures every bite has the right mix of chocolate, peanut butter, and powdered sugar. Here’s how I do it:
- Use a large bowl or resealable bag to give your mixture enough space for shaking or stirring without breaking the cereal.
- When stirring the cereal into the melted chocolate, fold gently to avoid crushing the pieces.
- After adding powdered sugar and sprinkles, shake the bag firmly but gently to coat each piece well.
- Spread the coated cereal on parchment paper after shaking to let it cool without clumping together.
Taking these steps helps keep the Puppy Chow light, crunchy, and perfectly sweet on each bite. It’s a simple trick, but makes a big difference in the final treat!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large microwave-safe bowl – I like this because it makes melting the chocolate and mixing everything easy and mess-free.
- Measuring cups and spoons – keep the ingredients accurate for the best flavor and texture.
- Large resealable plastic bag or mixing bowl – perfect for shaking and coating the cereal evenly.
- Parchment paper or baking sheet – helps the Puppy Chow cool and set without sticking.
- Spatula or large spoon – for gently stirring the cereal into the melted chocolate mixture.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try stirring in crushed peppermint candies or mini M&Ms instead of sprinkles for extra holiday flair and crunch.
- Use different chocolates like milk or dark chocolate chips for varied sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Add a handful of chopped nuts—peanuts, almonds, or pecans—for extra crunch and flavor.
- Mix in shredded coconut or dried fruit like cranberries for a little chewy, fruity surprise.
Christmas Puppy Chow
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 9 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup red and green festive sprinkles (or crushed holiday candies)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare plus 30 minutes to cool and set. It’s a quick and easy snack that you can have ready in less than an hour, perfect for holiday gatherings or gift bags!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Melt Chocolate and Peanut Butter:
In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, peanut butter, and unsalted butter. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
2. Add Vanilla Extract:
Stir in the vanilla extract until everything is well combined and silky.
3. Coat the Cereal:
Add the Rice Chex cereal to the melted chocolate mixture. Gently stir, folding the cereal to coat each piece evenly without breaking them.
4. Add Powdered Sugar and Sprinkles:
Transfer the coated cereal into a large resealable plastic bag or mixing bowl. Add the powdered sugar and festive sprinkles. Seal the bag and shake gently but thoroughly until the cereal is fully coated with sugar and sprinkled with holiday colors.
5. Cool and Set:
Spread the finished puppy chow onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let it cool and set for about 30 minutes so it crisps up nicely.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooled, transfer the Christmas Puppy Chow to a serving bowl. It’s ready to snack on or share as a fun festive treat!
Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter Instead of Creamy Peanut Butter?
Yes, you can! Just stir the natural peanut butter well before measuring, and keep in mind it might make the mixture a bit less smooth. You may need to microwave it a little longer to fully melt with the chocolate.
How Long Does Christmas Puppy Chow Keep?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature, and it should stay fresh for up to one week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to two weeks—just bring it back to room temperature before serving.
Can I Use Dark Chocolate or Milk Chocolate Instead of Semisweet?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate gives a richer, less sweet flavor, while milk chocolate adds more sweetness. Choose whichever you prefer or have on hand.
What’s the Best Way to Prevent Puppy Chow from Clumping?
Make sure to spread the coated cereal out in a single layer on parchment paper after shaking it with powdered sugar. Let it cool completely before storing to keep it from sticking together.