Cupid Chow is a delightful Valentine’s Day spin on the classic puppy chow (also known as muddy buddies). This no-bake treat combines crunchy cereal with creamy white chocolate, powdered sugar, and festive Valentine’s candies, making it a sweet and colorful snack that’s perfect for celebrating love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy and Fast: No baking required, and it comes together in under 15 minutes.
- Festive and Fun: Perfectly themed for Valentine’s Day with its pink, red, and white colors.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A hit with both kids and adults at parties or as a thoughtful edible gift.
- Customizable: Easily tweak the recipe with your favorite add-ins or dietary preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Rice Chex cereal (or Corn Chex)
- White chocolate chips or melting wafers
- Pink or red food coloring (optional)
- Powdered sugar
- Valentine’s-themed M&Ms or candy-coated chocolates
- Sprinkles (Valentine’s colors or heart shapes)
Directions
- Prepare the Base: Place the Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. If desired, add a drop or two of pink or red food coloring to the melted chocolate for a festive touch.
- Combine: Pour the melted chocolate over the cereal, gently stirring to coat each piece evenly.
- Coat with Sugar: Add powdered sugar to a large zip-top bag. Transfer the coated cereal into the bag, seal tightly, and shake until the cereal is evenly coated with powdered sugar.
- Add Extras: Pour the coated cereal into a large serving bowl. Gently mix in M&Ms and sprinkles.
- Cool and Serve: Let the mix set for about 10 minutes before serving or packaging.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes approximately 8-10 servings.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Setting Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Milk Chocolate Version: Swap white chocolate for milk or dark chocolate.
- Peanut Butter Twist: Add ½ cup of peanut butter to the melted chocolate for a nutty flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free Chex cereal and check candy labels for gluten-free certification.
- Dried Fruits or Nuts: Mix in dried cranberries, cherries, or chopped almonds for added texture.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free chocolate and vegan candies.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store Cupid Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: Not needed, but you can warm the chow slightly in the microwave for a softer texture if desired.
FAQs
1. Can I use another type of cereal?
Yes, Crispix or any similar cereal with a sturdy texture works well.
2. What’s the best way to melt the chocolate without burning it?
Microwave in short intervals, stirring between each, or use a double boiler for a gentler melt.
3. Can I make Cupid Chow ahead of time?
Yes! It can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container.
4. How do I ensure my cereal doesn’t get soggy?
Mix the chocolate and powdered sugar quickly and avoid adding too much liquid food coloring.
5. What if my chocolate hardens before I coat the cereal?
Reheat the chocolate gently to loosen it, then proceed with coating.
6. Can I add other candies?
Absolutely! Try conversation hearts, gummy candies, or candy-coated pretzels.
7. How do I prevent clumping when adding powdered sugar?
Shake the cereal in small batches if needed to ensure even coating.
8. What’s a good way to gift this recipe?
Package Cupid Chow in Valentine’s-themed treat bags, mason jars, or decorative tins.
9. Can I reduce the sweetness?
Yes, use less powdered sugar or incorporate unsweetened cereal for balance.
10. Is Cupid Chow safe for kids with nut allergies?
Yes, as long as you use nut-free candies and chocolates. Always check ingredient labels for cross-contamination warnings.
Conclusion
Cupid Chow is a simple, festive, and irresistibly delicious treat perfect for Valentine’s Day. With its crunchy texture, sweet coating, and colorful mix-ins, it’s a versatile snack that’s easy to make and even easier to share. Prepare a batch for your loved ones and add a little extra sweetness to your Valentine’s celebration!
Print
Cupid Chow Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 6 cups 1x
- Category: Snack Holiday
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cupid Chow is a Valentine’s Day twist on the classic “Puppy Chow” or “Muddy Buddies.” This sweet and crunchy treat combines Chex cereal with white chocolate, powdered sugar, and festive candies, making it perfect for sharing with your Valentine or gifting in cute bags.
Ingredients
- 5 cups (150g) Rice Chex or Corn Chex cereal
- 1 cup (175g) white chocolate chips or melting wafers
- 1/2 cup (125g) creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups (180g) powdered sugar
- 1 cup (150g) Valentine’s Day M&M’s or chocolate candies
- 1/2 cup (75g) heart-shaped sprinkles or other festive sprinkles
Instructions
- Prepare the Cereal Base:
- Place the Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
- Melt the Chocolate Mixture:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Coat the Cereal:
- Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal. Gently fold and toss until the cereal is evenly coated.
- Add Powdered Sugar:
- Transfer the coated cereal to a large zip-top bag. Add the powdered sugar, seal the bag, and shake until all the pieces are well coated and no longer sticky.
- Mix in the Extras:
- Spread the cereal mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool and set for about 10 minutes.
- Once set, transfer the mixture to a large bowl. Add the Valentine’s M&M’s and sprinkles, tossing gently to combine.
- Serve or Store:
- Serve immediately in a bowl or divide into festive gift bags for a thoughtful Valentine’s treat.
Notes
- Substitute peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
- For an extra festive touch, use pink or red candy melts instead of white chocolate.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.