There’s something about a crisp evening—maybe it’s the glow of string lights or the hush of falling snow—that makes you crave a snack to share. You know the kind: simple, nostalgic, and impossible to resist.
This treat ticks all the boxes: crispy cereal meets melted chocolate and peanut butter in a cozy dance, then gets dusted with snowy powdered sugar. Call it Reindeer Chow, Puppy Chow, or Muddy Buddies—everyone at the party will call it a hit.
Why You’ll Love It
Imagine scooping up handfuls of sweet-and-salty goodness while chatting under twinkling lights. Ever handed someone a bowl and watched it disappear in seconds? That’s the magic of Reindeer Chow. It blends creamy chocolate, warm peanut butter, and crisp cereal into a snow-dusted snack that feels like a hug in a bowl. You can switch it up on the fly—crushed candy canes for a peppermint pop, red-and-green M&M’s for extra cheer, or even a pinch of cinnamon for subtle heat. No fancy skills required; if you’ve ever stirred melted chocolate for brownies, you’re already a pro. Kids love the shaking step—they’ll giggle watching the sugar swirl around. It travels like a champ: bring it to office parties, send care packages, or stash a jar by the couch for late-night snacking. And if you’re looking for one more reason, it’s totally customizable: try almond butter for a nutty spin or go semi-sweet with dark chocolate chips for deeper flavor. Honestly, it’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a holiday wizard, pulling treats from your sleeve at the perfect moment.
One year I slipped a small bag into my sister’s stocking, and she spent the next day sneaking little handfuls—she still asks me to make a double batch. Bonus: it’s budget-friendly, making plenty of portions without draining your wallet. These simple bites often inspire impromptu recipe swaps too, as everyone starts brainstorming their own twists.
Timing and Servings
From start to finish, you’re looking at roughly 30 minutes—10 minutes to gather and measure, 5 minutes to melt and coat, and about 15 for the mixture to set at room temperature. It’s perfect when you’re juggling cookie baking or last-minute gift wrapping. My kids jump in during the coating step (though their pajamas often get more sugar than the cereal). You’ll end up with about a dozen generous snack-size servings—ideal for a small crowd or a movie-night stash. Need more? Double the batch. Just grab a larger bowl for shaking, and you’ll have enough to fill jars for everyone on your list.
Ingredients
- 9 cups Chex cereal (rice, corn, or a mix)
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter (almond or cashew butter works, too)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 1½ cups mini pretzels
- 1½ cups red and green M&M’s (or other festive candies)
Directions
1. Place the cereal in a large mixing bowl—give yourself room to fold without crushing the pieces.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until you have a smooth, glossy mixture.
3. Stir in the vanilla. It’s a small step, but that final note of flavor makes the whole thing sing.
4. Pour the chocolate mixture over the cereal. Fold gently with a spatula, aiming for an even coat without turning everything into a clump.
5. Transfer the coated cereal to a sturdy resealable bag, add the powdered sugar, seal tightly, and shake like you mean it. Speed prevents big sugar clouds from forming.
6. Spread the sugar-dusted cereal on parchment or wax paper to cool for about 10 minutes. Once it’s firm, return it to the bowl and toss with pretzels and M&M’s.
Variations
- Nut-Free: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or WowButter for allergy-friendly snacking.
- Gluten-Free: Double-check that your Chex cereal has the gluten-free label.
- Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne to the powdered sugar for subtle warmth.
- Peppermint Version: Use white chocolate chips and crushed candy canes for a minty makeover.
- Cereal Swap: Try Crispix, Cheerios, or another sturdy cereal for a different crunch profile.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Store your Reindeer Chow in an airtight container or jar at room temperature, where it’ll stay crisp for up to a week—if it doesn’t vanish sooner. For a mid-wrapping energizer, keep a clear container on your counter; seeing it peek out reminds everyone to grab a handful. If pieces soften overnight, revive them with a quick zap: 5–10 seconds in the microwave brings back the snap without melting the candies. You can also freeze sealed portions for up to a month; when you’re ready, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, and they’ll taste freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Absolutely—you’ll get extra bits of peanut crunch. Just stir gently during coating to avoid big chunks forming.
Is this safe for school events?
Yes—just label major allergens like nuts and dairy. Teachers and parents appreciate the heads-up, and it’ll be a hit with both kids and adults.
How do I prevent powdered sugar clumps?
Shake the bag quickly right after adding the sugar, then spread the cereal out on parchment to cool. That keeps the pieces separated before the sugar sets.
Can I toss in dried fruit?
Sure—dried cranberries or cherries add a tart pop. Wait until after the cooling stage so they don’t turn chewy.
Can I use a different cereal?
Absolutely—varieties like Crispix, Cheerios, or gluten-free Rice Chex all work. Just pick a plain, sturdy cereal so the coating adheres well.
Conclusion
Here you have it: an effortless, crowd-pleasing snack that feels both homemade and festive. Reindeer Chow proves that the simplest recipes can create the biggest smiles—no fancy plating required. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering, shipping treats to friends afar, or sneaking a few pieces yourself while trimming the tree, this recipe delivers. So grab a bowl, pour something warm, and let those crunchy, chocolate-kissed bites sprinkle a little holiday magic into your day—maybe even weeks after the tinsel comes down.
