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Home » Christmas

Christmas Puppy Chow (Reindeer Chow)

Published: Dec 8, 2022 by Scott · This post may contain affiliate links where I earn a commission, at no charge to you, if you make a purchase using my link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

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This Christmas Puppy Chow, also known as reindeer chow or muddy buddies, is a quick and easy holiday treat that features Chex cereal coated in a peanut butter and chocolate mixture and dusted with powdered sugar mixed with holiday M&M's. It's perfect for snacking and sharing with friends and family for the holidays!

A tin container filled with Christmas puppy chow mix.
Jump to:
  • Why this Recipe Works
  • Ingredient Notes
  • Step-by-Step Instructions
  • Recipe Variations
  • Recipe Tips and FAQs
  • More Snack and Appetizer Recipes
  • 📖 Recipe
  • More Holiday Favorites

Why this Recipe Works

This Christmas puppy chow recipe is a classic that has been around for a long time. They go by many names, but whether you call them muddy buddies, puppy chow, or something else they're an addictive little sweet treat that everyone loves.

This version adds holiday M&M's for color and is often called reindeer chow. It's a quick and easy snack with the classic combination of chocolate and peanut butter and a festive look that is perfect for serving at holiday parties or giving as Christmas gifts to friends and family.

Best of all, you just need a few simple ingredients and around 10 minutes of hands-on time to prepare them!

Ingredient Notes

See the recipe card at the bottom of this post for a full list of ingredients and measurements.

  • Chex Cereal - I used Rice Chex cereal, but any variety will work. Similar cereals like Crispix will also work.
  • Chocolate Chips - I used milk chocolate chips, but semi-sweet or white chocolate will also work.
  • Peanut Butter - Creamy peanut butter works best in this recipe. See the tips section below if you want to leave it out to accommodate allergies or just aren't a fan.
The ingredients for the reindeer chow are shown in bowls set on a counter before preparing the snack mix.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Melt the butter and chocolate chips in a small pot over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. Then add the peanut butter and vanilla and stir until smooth.
Chocolate and butter being melted in a pot.
Melted chocolate, butter, vanilla, and peanut butter mixture shown in a pot.
  1. Add the cereal to a large mixing bowl, then pour the chocolate peanut butter mixture over top and stir until all of the cereal is coated.
Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl with melted chocolate and peanut butter mixture poured on top before being stirred.
Chocolate-coated Chex cereal is shown in a large plastic bag with powdered sugar added in, before being mixed.
  1. Transfer the cereal to a large resealable plastic bag and pour the powdered sugar in. Seal the bag and toss until the cereal is coated. Let cool for 10 minutes, then mix in the M&M's before serving.
Overhead view of a tin container filled with Christmas puppy chow mix.

Recipe Variations

You can use this puppy chow recipe as a base and add in other goodies to customize your own Christmas snack mix. Some of my favorite additions are:

  • Pretzels
  • Peanuts
  • Mini Marshmallows
  • Other holiday candies

Recipe Tips and FAQs

How to store reindeer chow

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 10 days. If you keep your hose warm, you may want to store it in the refrigerator to keep the chocolate from melting.

Can I make it without peanut butter?

To make the puppy chow without peanut butter, you can use a nut-free substitute like sun butter, or add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in place of the peanut butter. The oil is needed to produce the thinner consistency that the fat from the peanut butter provides.

More Snack and Appetizer Recipes

  • Bisquick Sausage Balls
  • Easy Spinach Artichoke Dip
  • Homemade Chocolate Cherry Granola Bars
  • Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

If you try this recipe don't forget to leave a RATING or COMMENT below. I would love to hear from you!!! And FOLLOW me on Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram for all the latest recipes!

📖 Recipe

A tin container filled with Christmas puppy chow mix.

Christmas Puppy Chow

This quick and easy Christmas puppy chow is a holiday favorite that takes just minutes to make!
5 from 1 vote
Print Pin Share Rate
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 10 mins
Servings: 10 cups
Calories: 242kcal

Ingredients

  • 9 cups rice Chex cereal
  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • ¼ cup butter
  • ½ cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1½ cups powdered sugar
  • 1 cup holiday M&M's

Instructions

  • Melt the butter and chocolate chips in a small pot over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. Then add the peanut butter and vanilla and stir until smooth.
  • Add the cereal to a large mixing bowl, then pour the chocolate peanut butter mixture over top and stir until all of the cereal is coated.
  • Transfer the cereal to a large resealable plastic bag and pour the powdered sugar in. Seal the bag and toss until the cereal is coated. Let cool for 10 minutes, then mix in the M&M's before serving.

Notes

Nut-Free: To make the mix without peanut butter, you can use an allergy friendly substitute like sun butter, or you can add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in place of the peanut butter. The oil is needed to produce the thinner consistency that the fat from the peanut butter provides.

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 0.5cupCalories: 242kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 4gFat: 11gCholesterol: 11mgSodium: 166mgFiber: 2gSugar: 23g

* All nutrition information we provide are estimates based on third party calculators. We encourage you to calculate these on your own for accurate results.

Course: Snack
Cuisine: American
Tried this recipe?Don't forget to leave a rating above and mention @disheswithdad or tag #disheswithdad on social media!

More Holiday Favorites

  • Chicken Lasagna with Spinach
  • Garlic and Herb Crusted Standing Rib Roast
  • Shaved Brussels Sprouts and Kale Salad
  • Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes
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About Me

Hello, I'm Scott! ! I'm a former professional cook and a long-time home cook. I created this space to share my favorite quick and easy, family-friendly recipes and hopefully inspire you to try some of them for yourself!

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About Me

Hello, I'm Scott! ! I'm a former professional cook and a long-time home cook. I created this space to share my favorite quick and easy, family-friendly recipes and hopefully inspire you to try some of them for yourself!

Read More →

Lighter Favorites

  • Grilled Balsamic Steak Salad
  • Asian Chicken Meatballs
  • Kale and Farro Salad with Roasted Butternut Squash
  • Greek Chicken Souvlaki Kebabs
  • Tropical Green Smoothie
  • Baked Lemon Dill Salmon

See More →

Featured Recipes

  • Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole (Without Soup!)
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  • Instant Pot Pork Roast and Potatoes
  • Brioche French Toast Casserole
  • Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

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