Ingredients:
- 9 cups Rice Chex cereal: This gluten-free option provides a perfect crunchy base for our treat.
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips: Choose high-quality chocolate chips for a rich flavor.
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: Opt for a smooth variety to ensure easy mixing.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: This adds richness; unsalted gives you control over the final flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract elevates the taste of the chocolate.
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create the signature snowy coating.
- 1 cup red and green M&Ms: These add color and a delightful crunch; feel free to substitute with other festive candies if desired.
- 1/2 cup festive holiday sprinkles: Choose your favorite shapes and colors to make the treat even more cheerful!
Directions:
- Prepare Your Mixing Area:
Begin by setting up a clean and spacious work area. Place a large mixing bowl on your counter and pour in the Rice Chex cereal. This helps to keep things organized. Take a moment to line a baking sheet with parchment paper; this step ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking later.
- Melt the Chocolate Mixture:
In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, peanut butter, and unsalted butter. Microwave this mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring vigorously after each interval. Continue until the mixture is smooth and fully melted—this usually takes about 1 to 2 minutes. Once melted, stir in the vanilla extract, which will add a lovely depth of flavor to your chocolate mixture.
- Coat the Cereal:
Carefully pour the warm chocolate mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Using a spatula, gently fold the chocolate into the cereal, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. Take your time with this step; it’s essential to be gentle to avoid breaking the cereal while ensuring a thorough coating.
- Add the Powdered Sugar:
Once the cereal is evenly coated with the chocolate mixture, transfer it into a large zip-top bag or a large mixing bowl with a lid. Add the powdered sugar to the bag, seal it tightly, and shake vigorously. This step is crucial as it ensures that every piece of cereal is evenly coated, preventing clumps and ensuring a delightful texture.
- Mix in Festive Additions:
After shaking, spread the coated cereal onto the prepared baking sheet, allowing it to cool completely—this helps the chocolate set and prevents it from being too sticky. Once cooled, gently fold in the red and green M&Ms and sprinkle the festive holiday sprinkles over the top. This will add a pop of color and extra fun to your Puppy Chow!
- Serve or Store:
Your Christmas Puppy Chow is now ready to enjoy! You can serve it immediately in a festive bowl or package it in decorative containers as delightful homemade gifts. If you choose to store it, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week; however, it’s unlikely to last that long as it’s so delicious!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 12
Tips:
- For a fun variation, consider adding crushed peppermint candies for a minty twist.
- To make this treat even more colorful, use a mix of regular and holiday-themed M&Ms or candies.
- Keep an eye on the chocolate mixture while melting to avoid overheating, which can cause it to seize.
Enjoy making this delightful treat, and happy holidays!