Description
This easy and indulgent Puppy Chow recipe combines crispy Rice Chex cereal coated in a rich, creamy peanut butter and chocolate mixture, then dusted with powdered sugar for a perfect sweet snack or dessert. With simple ingredients and quick prep, it’s a delightful treat for parties, kids, or anytime craving a nostalgic comfort snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 9 cups Rice Chex cereal (or any similar crispy cereal)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cereal: Place the Rice Chex cereal in a large bowl and set aside, ensuring the cereal is ready for coating.
- Make the Brownie Batter Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and peanut butter together by microwaving in 20-30 second intervals. Stir after each interval until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- Incorporate Chocolate and Cocoa: Add chocolate chips and cocoa powder to the melted mixture. Microwave again for 20-30 seconds and stir until the chocolate chips are completely melted and the batter is smooth.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and pinch of salt (if using) to enhance the flavor of the coating.
- Coat the Cereal: Pour the chocolate and peanut butter mixture over the cereal in the large bowl. Gently stir to ensure every piece of cereal is evenly coated with the rich brownie batter.
- Coat with Powdered Sugar: Transfer the coated cereal into a large resealable plastic bag or container. Add powdered sugar, seal, and shake vigorously until the cereal is thoroughly coated in powdered sugar, creating the classic puppy chow look.
- Chill (Optional): Spread the coated cereal onto a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool and set for 10-15 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate for 5-10 minutes to speed up the process.
- Serve: Transfer the puppy chow to a serving bowl and enjoy immediately. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use creamy peanut butter for a smoother coating; chunky peanut butter may cause uneven coverage.
- Ensure the chocolate chips are fully melted for a silky, homogeneous coating.
- Shaking the cereal with powdered sugar thoroughly is key to achieving the iconic puppy chow texture.
- Store the puppy chow in a sealed container at room temperature or in the refrigerator to keep it crunchy and fresh.
- Feel free to swap Rice Chex for other cereals like Corn Chex or Wheat Chex depending on your preference.
