If you’re a fan of sweet, chocolatey snacks, Brownie Batter Puppy Chow is about to become your new favorite indulgence. This no-bake treat combines the rich flavor of brownie batter with the irresistible crunch of classic puppy chow (also known as muddy buddies). Perfect for parties, movie nights, or satisfying your chocolate cravings, this easy recipe is sure to delight.
Why You’ll Love Brownie Batter Puppy Chow
- Quick and Easy: Requires just a few ingredients and no oven time.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for sharing at gatherings or packing as a sweet snack.
- Customizable: Add mix-ins like mini marshmallows, sprinkles, or crushed pretzels for extra flair.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this chocolaty snack:
- 5 cups of rice or corn cereal (like Chex)
- 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup of peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
- ½ cup of brownie mix (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup of powdered sugar
- Optional: A pinch of sea salt or a handful of mini chocolate chips for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Base
In a large mixing bowl, measure out 5 cups of your chosen cereal. This will be the base of your puppy chow.
2. Melt Chocolate and Peanut Butter
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and peanut butter. Heat in 20-second increments, stirring each time, until smooth and fully melted.
3. Coat the Cereal
Pour the melted chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the cereal. Gently stir until all pieces are evenly coated.
4. Add the Brownie Mix and Powdered Sugar
Transfer the coated cereal to a large zip-top bag or sealable container. Add the brownie mix and powdered sugar. Seal the bag and shake vigorously to coat every piece in the sweet, brownie-flavored mixture.
5. Cool and Serve
Spread the coated cereal on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let it cool completely before serving. Add any optional toppings like mini chocolate chips or sea salt if desired.
Tips for Perfect Brownie Batter Puppy Chow
- Avoid Clumping: Stir gently to prevent breaking the cereal.
- Even Coating: Shake the bag thoroughly to ensure all pieces are coated in the sugary goodness.
- Storage: Keep your puppy chow fresh by storing it in an airtight container for up to a week.
Creative Variations
- Nut-Free Version: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or cookie butter.
- Extra Crunch: Mix in pretzel sticks or nuts for added texture.
- Festive Twist: Add holiday-themed sprinkles or candy for a seasonal touch.
Why It’s the Ultimate Sweet Treat
Brownie Batter Puppy Chow takes the nostalgic charm of classic puppy chow and elevates it with the decadent taste of brownie mix. The combination of chocolate, peanut butter, and powdered sugar creates a snack that’s sweet, crunchy, and utterly addictive.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a kid-friendly recipe, or just want to satisfy a sweet tooth, this treat is the perfect choice. Give it a try, and watch it disappear in minutes!
Share Your Creation!
Did you make this Brownie Batter Puppy Chow? Share your photos and tips in the comments below. Don’t forget to tag us on social media with #BrownieBatterPuppyChow!
Serving and Storage Tips for Brownie Batter Puppy Chow
Serving Tips
- Party Ready: Serve in a large decorative bowl or individual snack cups for easy sharing.
- Topping Bar: Set up a mini topping station with extras like sprinkles, mini marshmallows, or crushed candies, allowing guests to customize their portions.
- Gifting Idea: Pack in clear cellophane bags, tie with a ribbon, and gift as a sweet homemade treat for birthdays or holidays.
Storage Tips
- Airtight Container: Store your puppy chow in an airtight container or resealable bag to maintain freshness.
- Room Temperature: Keep it at room temperature for up to 5–7 days. Avoid exposing it to heat, as the chocolate coating can melt.
- Freezing Option: For longer storage, freeze the puppy chow in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Let it thaw at room temperature before serving.
Pro Tip
To prevent the powdered sugar from clumping during storage, layer parchment paper between batches or shake the puppy chow lightly before serving.
1. Can I make Brownie Batter Puppy Chow without peanut butter?
Yes! If you’re avoiding peanut butter due to allergies or preference, you can substitute it with other spreads like almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or even cookie butter. These alternatives still provide a creamy texture and delicious flavor.
2. What type of cereal is best for this recipe?
Rice or corn-based cereals like Chex are ideal because they’re sturdy and have plenty of surface area to hold the chocolate and sugar coating. Avoid puffed or flake cereals, as they may not hold up well during mixing.
3. Can I use homemade brownie mix?
Absolutely! If you have a homemade brownie mix recipe, feel free to use it. Just ensure the mix is dry and doesn’t contain added wet ingredients like eggs or oil.
4. Is Brownie Batter Puppy Chow safe for dogs?
No, this treat is not safe for pets. Despite the name “puppy chow,” it’s a human snack. Chocolate and other ingredients like powdered sugar are harmful to dogs, so be sure to keep it out of their reach.
PrintBrownie Batter Puppy Chow
Brownie Batter Puppy Chow is a deliciously sweet and chocolaty twist on the classic snack mix. Crunchy cereal is coated in a rich blend of chocolate, peanut butter, and brownie mix for an indulgent treat perfect for parties, holidays, or as a quick dessert. Easy to make and utterly addictive!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 cups 1x
- Category: Snack, Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup brownie mix (store-bought or homemade, unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Coating Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Coat the Cereal: Place the Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal. Gently toss until all pieces are evenly coated.
- Add the Brownie Batter: In a gallon-sized zip-top bag or large container with a lid, combine the brownie mix and powdered sugar.
- Shake to Coat: Transfer the coated cereal to the bag or container. Seal tightly and shake well until the cereal is completely covered in the brownie mix and sugar mixture.
- Cool and Serve: Spread the puppy chow onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool and set for 15-20 minutes. Once cooled, store in an airtight container and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra crunch, add nuts or pretzels to the mix before coating with chocolate.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- This recipe is not suitable for pets despite its name. Keep away from dogs due to the chocolate and sugar content.