Introduction

Christmas Puppy Chow is a festive twist on the classic snack mix, featuring colorful red and green vanilla melts that make it perfect for holiday gatherings. This crunchy, sweet treat combines Chex cereal coated in creamy, flavored melts and powdered sugar for a deliciously addictive snack.

A close-up image of red and green square cereal pieces, dusted with white powder, piled inside a round white bowl lined with crumpled red tissue paper. A cream-colored speckled spoon is placed inside the bowl, scooping some cereal near the top edge. Scattered cereal pieces surround the bowl on a wooden board, with a blurred white marbled texture background featuring a blue spherical ornament partially visible on the side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 cups Rice Chex cereal (1 ½ 15-ounce boxes)
7 ounces green vanilla flavored melting wafers
7 ounces red vanilla flavored melting wafers
6 tablespoons creamy peanut butter (divided)
4 tablespoons salted butter (divided)
2 cups powdered sugar (divided)

Instructions

Step 1: Add 1 cup of powdered sugar to a gallon-size Ziplock bag and set it aside.
Step 2: Place 6 cups of Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl and set aside.
Step 3: In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine 7 ounces of green melting wafers, 3 tablespoons peanut butter, and 2 tablespoons butter.
Step 4: Microwave the mixture at 50% power for 30 seconds, then stir well.
Step 5: Continue microwaving in 15-second increments at the same power, stirring between each, until the mixture is fully melted and smooth. Avoid overheating to prevent seizing. Do not add any liquids; the mixture will be thick, which is normal.
Step 6: Pour or spoon the green melts over the Chex cereal and gently combine using a large spoon or your hands to ensure even coating.
Step 7: If the cereal isn’t fully coated, microwave the mixture again for 15 seconds at 50% power and stir to finish coating.
Step 8: Pour half of the coated Chex mix into the prepared Ziplock bag with powdered sugar. Seal the bag and gently toss to coat. Repeat with the remaining cereal and powdered sugar.
Step 9: Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the green-coated Puppy Chow evenly on it.
Step 10: Repeat the entire melting and coating process with the red melting wafers, peanut butter, and butter, using a fresh Ziplock bag and clean bowl for the red mixture.
Step 11: Allow both trays of Puppy Chow to set for about an hour before handling or serving.

Tips & Variations

Using your hands when mixing the melted wafers with the cereal helps ensure each piece is evenly coated without breaking the cereal.
You can substitute peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter if you prefer a nut-free option.
For an extra festive touch, add a handful of holiday-themed sprinkles once the coated cereal is spread out on the baking sheets before setting.

Storage

Store Christmas Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Keep it away from heat and humidity to maintain the crisp texture. If it softens, you can refresh it by loosely spreading on a baking sheet and allowing it to air out. No reheating is necessary.

How to Serve

The image shows a large, rectangular baking tray filled with a mix of small, square-shaped cereal pieces colored green and red. The cereal pieces have a rough texture with a light dusting of powdered sugar on top, giving them a slightly frosted look. The tray is placed on a white marbled surface and is surrounded by Christmas decorations, including green pine branches, red and blue baubles, red and dark berries, pine cones, golden snowflake ornaments, and a spool of twine on crumpled red paper. The setup gives a festive holiday feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cereal instead of Rice Chex?

Yes, other sturdy cereals like Corn Chex or Wheat Chex work well as substitutes. Avoid cereals that are too delicate as they may become soggy or break easily during coating.

What if my melted wafers seize or become grainy?

Overheating or introducing moisture can cause melting wafers to seize. To fix this, try stirring in a small amount of vegetable oil or gently reheat at lower power in short bursts while stirring. Always avoid adding water or liquids directly.