Go Back
Christmas Puppy Chow Recipe
Ben Carraoli

Christmas Puppy Chow Recipe

I have to tell you, making this Christmas Puppy Chow was pure joy! From the moment I started mixing the chocolate and peanut butter, the kitchen was filled with that cozy holiday aroma. It’s one of those treats that looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to make. I found myself sneaking handfuls while assembling it!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings: 20
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 cups of Chex cereal – I used chocolate Chex for a rich flavor but rice, corn, or wheat Chex work well too. Don’t crush them!
  • 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips – Use high-quality chocolate for the best melt and flavor.
  • ½ cup smooth peanut butter – Smooth peanut butter blends easily; natural peanut butter can be used but may need a little warming.
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter – Adds creaminess and helps the chocolate and peanut butter melt smoothly.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the chocolate and peanut butter flavors.
  • 2 ¼ cups powdered sugar divided – Gives the signature “snowy” look.
  • 2 cups holiday-shaped pretzels or mini pretzel twists – Adds festive crunch; don’t use stale pretzels.
  • 1 cup white melting wafers or white chocolate chips – Perfect for decorating pretzels.
  • 2 tablespoons Christmas-colored sprinkles – Adds a cheerful holiday touch.
  • 1 cup mini Reese’s peanut butter cups unwrapped – Bite-sized candy for extra indulgence.
  • 1 cup holiday M&Ms – Any festive flavor or color combination.

Method
 

  1. Start by measuring the Chex cereal into a large bowl and setting it aside. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract and pour over the cereal, tossing gently to coat each piece.
  2. Transfer the chocolate-coated cereal to a large bowl, stockpot, or 2-gallon bag and add 1 ½ cups powdered sugar. Cover and shake or stir until every piece is coated in a snowy layer. Chill in the fridge for about 10 minutes to let it firm up.
  3. While the puppy chow chills, melt the white chocolate wafers and drizzle over the pretzels using a spoon or piping bag. Quickly sprinkle with holiday sprinkles before the chocolate sets. Let them cool for 5 minutes, or refrigerate briefly for a faster set.
  4. Once the puppy chow has firmed, transfer it back to a large bowl or bag and add the remaining ¾ cup powdered sugar. Toss until evenly coated. Finally, mix in M&Ms and mini peanut butter cups, and place the decorated pretzels on top for a festive look. Serve immediately or store for later.

Notes

  • I always use chocolate Chex for richer flavor, but a mix of cereals can make it more interesting.
  • Make sure the chocolate-peanut butter mixture is fully melted and smooth before tossing with the cereal.
  • Chill the coated cereal before adding candy for better coating adhesion.
  • I like to add pretzels at the end so they don’t get soggy from the chocolate mixture.
  • Store in an airtight container to maintain crunchiness