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Homemade Puppy Chow Recipe

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4.2 from 84 reviews

Homemade Puppy Chow is a sweet, crunchy snack made by coating Rice Chex cereal with a rich mixture of melted bittersweet chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and butter, then dusted generously with powdered sugar. Perfect for parties, snack time, or gifting, this easy-to-make treat delivers a delightful balance of chocolate and peanut butter flavors with a satisfying crunch.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 10 cups (serves 8-10)

Ingredients

Chocolate Mixture

  • 1 1/2 cups bittersweet chocolate chips
  • 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1-2 teaspoons espresso powder, optional

Cereal

  • 1 – 12oz box Rice Chex cereal (about 10 cups)

Coating

  • 1 1/2 – 2 cups powdered sugar, plus more as desired

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cereal: Place the Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper to set the coated cereal later.
  2. Melt the Chocolate Mixture: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the bittersweet chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, and unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is fully melted and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and espresso powder if using.
  3. Coat the Cereal: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal in the bowl. Using a silicone spatula, gently fold and toss the cereal until each piece is thoroughly coated with the chocolate mixture, being careful not to crush the cereal.
  4. Apply Powdered Sugar Coating: Place half of the powdered sugar into a gallon-sized food-safe storage bag. Add half of the coated cereal mixture to the bag. Seal and gently shake the bag to evenly coat the cereal with powdered sugar. Add more powdered sugar if a thicker coating is desired. Transfer the coated cereal onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Repeat this process with the remaining powdered sugar and cereal mixture.
  5. Cool and Store: Allow the puppy chow to cool completely and the coating to set. Store the treat in an airtight container kept in a cool, dry area, or refrigerate or freeze to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • Espresso powder is optional but adds a depth of flavor that enhances the chocolate taste.
  • Be gentle when tossing the cereal to avoid breaking it into pieces.
  • Adjust the amount of powdered sugar to suit your preferred sweetness and coating thickness.
  • This treat can be stored for up to two weeks in an airtight container at room temperature or longer if refrigerated or frozen.
  • Puppy Chow is perfect for festive occasions, road trips, or casual snacking.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Snacks
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American