What’s the difference between Puppy Chow and Muddy Buddies?

Holiday Puppy Chow and Muddy Buddies are essentially the same recipe. The term "Puppy Chow" is more commonly used in the Midwest, while "Muddy Buddies" is the branded name used by Chex. For the holidays, adding festive sprinkles and themed mix-ins transforms it into Holiday Puppy Chow or Reindeer Chow.

Can I make Holiday Puppy Chow without peanut butter?

Yes! If you have a peanut allergy or dietary restriction, you can substitute peanut butter with other nut or seed butters like almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter. Just make sure it's smooth and unsweetened to balance the flavors.

How do I keep the Holiday Puppy Chow from getting soggy or sticky?

After coating the cereal with the chocolate mixture, make sure it’s fully cooled and evenly coated with powdered sugar. Chilling the mix in a single layer on parchment paper for about an hour helps it set and stay crunchy. Always store in an airtight container to maintain texture.

Holiday Puppy Chow: The Best Festive No-Bake Treat

Description

Holiday Puppy Chow is a festive, no-bake Christmas snack made with Chex cereal, melted chocolate, peanut butter, powdered sugar, and sprinkles. Also known as Reindeer Chow or Christmas Muddy Buddies, it’s the perfect treat for parties, gift bags, and cozy winter nights at home.

Ingredients

Scale

9 cups Chex cereal: Provides the crunchy base that holds the chocolate coating.
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Adds rich chocolate flavor without excessive sweetness.
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: Helps bind the chocolate and provides a salty-sweet balance.
1/4 cup unsalted butter: Ensures smooth melting and adds richness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor profile with warm, sweet notes.
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar: Coats the mix with a snowy finish and adds sweetness.
1/4 cup festive sprinkles: Adds holiday color and visual appeal.

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Instructions

Measure the Chex cereal and place it in a large mixing bowl. Set aside.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter, stirring constantly until smooth.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Pour the chocolate mixture over the cereal in three stages, gently folding after each addition to evenly coat.
In a large zip-top bag, combine powdered sugar and sprinkles. Add the coated cereal in batches, sealing and shaking to coat.
Spread the coated cereal in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill for 1 hour to set before serving or storing.

Notes

Use rice Chex for a gluten-free version.
To keep it crunchy, ensure cereal is completely coated and chilled properly.
Store in an airtight container for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
Add mini pretzels or holiday M&Ms for extra crunch and color.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 416
Sugar: 42g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 78g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 11mg