Ingredients:
9 cups Chex cereal (rice, corn, or chocolate, or a mix of all three)
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 and 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 cup holiday M&Ms (red and green preferably)
1 cup mini pretzels
1/2 cup dry roasted peanuts (optional)
Festive sprinkles (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Cereal:
Place the Chex cereal in a large bowl; you’ll need enough room for stirring without spilling.
Melt Chocolate Mixture:
In a microwave-safe bowl, add the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Coat the Cereal:
Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal, stirring gently until evenly coated.
Add Powdered Sugar:
Transfer the chocolate-coated cereal into a large zip-top bag. Add the powdered sugar, seal the bag, and shake until all the cereal is coated with the powdered sugar.
Mix in the Extras:
Pour the mixture back into the bowl and let it cool for a few minutes. Once cooled, add the M&Ms, pretzels, and peanuts. Stir gently to combine.
Add Festive Touch:
If you’re using sprinkles, now’s the time to sprinkle them on to add a festive touch.
Serve or Gift:
Serve your Reindeer Chow in a festive bowl or package it in cellophane bags tied with ribbons for gifting.
Storage:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Enjoy your homemade Reindeer Chow, a treat that’s sure to be a hit with both the little ones and the grown-ups at your holiday festivities!
Reindeer Chow Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Cuisine: American
Description
Reindeer Chow, also known as Christmas Puppy Chow, is a festive twist on the classic treat. This crunchy, chocolatey, and peanut buttery snack mix is perfect for holiday gatherings or as a fun homemade gift. Kids and adults alike will love munching on this addictive, sweet treat during the holiday season!
Ingredients
- 9 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup holiday-themed M&M’s
- 1/2 cup mini pretzels
- Optional: sprinkles for extra holiday cheer
Instructions
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Prepare the Chocolate Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring each time, until smooth and fully melted. Stir in the vanilla extract.
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Coat the Cereal: Place the Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal, stirring gently to evenly coat all pieces without breaking them.
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Add the Powdered Sugar: Transfer the chocolate-coated cereal to a large zip-top bag (or use a large bowl with a lid). Add the powdered sugar, seal the bag, and shake vigorously until all cereal pieces are well coated with powdered sugar. This step can also be done in two batches if needed.
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Mix in the Extras: Pour the coated cereal into a large serving bowl. Add the M&M’s, mini pretzels, and any holiday sprinkles, and gently toss to combine.
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Chill and Serve: Spread the mixture on a baking sheet to set and cool for 10-15 minutes, then serve or store in an airtight container.
Notes
- For a peanut-free version, substitute sunflower seed butter or cookie butter.
- Reindeer Chow can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.