If you’re looking for a festive, irresistibly crunchy, and sweet snack to share this holiday season, then you’re in for a treat with this Reindeer Food (Christmas Puppy Chow) Recipe. This delightful mix is like a party in your mouth, combining chocolate, peanut butter, and powdery sugar-dusted cereal with a burst of holiday color that feels like a celebration in every bite. It’s the perfect snack to whip up quickly and enjoy with family or friends while spreading Christmas cheer in a deliciously fun way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this Reindeer Food (Christmas Puppy Chow) Recipe is as simple as gathering a few pantry staples that each bring a special something to the bowl. From the crunchy base to the melty chocolate and peanut butter blend, each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of taste, texture, and festive color.
- 9 cups Rice or Corn Chex cereal: The crispy foundation that soaks up the chocolate and peanut butter while remaining delightfully crunchy.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Provides the rich, chocolaty coating that brings everything together.
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: Adds a luscious, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the chocolate.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Helps melt and blend the chocolate and peanut butter smoothly for an even coating.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A hint of warmth that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering it.
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar: The sweet, snowy dusting that gives this snack its signature look and taste.
- 1/2 cup red and green sprinkles or colored candies (e.g., M&Ms): Adds that festive pop of Christmas color and a little extra crunch.
How to Make Reindeer Food (Christmas Puppy Chow) Recipe
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate Mixture
Start by combining your semi-sweet chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, and unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat them in short bursts of about 30 seconds, stirring in between, until everything is melted and beautifully smooth. The vanilla extract goes in last to infuse the buttery-chocolate blend with a subtle aromatic depth.
Step 2: Coat the Cereal
Pour the Rice or Corn Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl, then drizzle the warm chocolate and peanut butter mixture over the top. Gently fold the cereal and chocolate together with a spatula, making sure every piece gets a silky coating without breaking the cereal. This step is crucial for that perfect balance of crunchy and rich.
Step 3: Powder Sugar Dusting
Transfer the chocolate-coated cereal into a large resealable plastic bag, add the powdered sugar, seal it up, and shake vigorously until every morsel is evenly dusted with snowy white sugar. This is what transforms it into that magical “Reindeer Food” snack, making it look as festive as it tastes.
Step 4: Add Festive Color
For the final touch, spread the coated cereal onto a large tray or baking sheet and sprinkle your red and green candies or sprinkles on top. This not only enhances the visual appeal but adds an extra layer of holiday excitement with every handful.
How to Serve Reindeer Food (Christmas Puppy Chow) Recipe
Garnishes
While the sprinkles and colored candies are the classic garnishes, you can also add chopped nuts or even mini marshmallows to elevate the texture and flavor profile. A light dusting of edible glitter can make this holiday treat shine even brighter if you’re feeling fancy.
Side Dishes
This Reindeer Food (Christmas Puppy Chow) Recipe works wonderfully alongside hot cocoa, eggnog, or a winter spiced latte. Pairing it with any of these warm beverages turns a simple snack into a cozy holiday moment that everyone will treasure.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve it in festive mason jars, colorful holiday bowls, or fill small gift bags tied with ribbons for a charming homemade gift. You can also layer it in clear containers alternating with candy cane pieces for a pretty, striped effect that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps the Reindeer Food (Christmas Puppy Chow) Recipe crispy and fresh for up to a week, making it easy to snack on throughout the holiday season.
Freezing
You can freeze this snack for longer storage by placing it in a freeze-safe bag or container. When properly sealed, it maintains its delicious crunch and flavor for up to three months. Just be sure to thaw it at room temperature to avoid condensation sogginess.
Reheating
Reheating isn’t usually necessary with this snack, but if you want to refresh its warmth and softness, a brief 10-15 second zap in the microwave can solve that. Be careful not to overheat to keep the texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cereal in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Rice or Corn Chex are classic choices for their shape and crunch, you can experiment with similar crispy cereals, just make sure they hold up well when coated.
Is it okay to substitute peanut butter with other nut butters?
Yes, you can swap peanut butter for almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor twist, just keep it creamy to blend nicely with the chocolate.
How long does this Reindeer Food (Christmas Puppy Chow) Recipe last?
Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for about a week at room temperature, perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting.
Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Definitely! Use sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter in place of peanut butter and double-check for any cross-contamination to keep it safe for those with nut allergies.
What’s the best way to serve it at a party?
Place it in individual small bowls or festive cups for easy grab-and-go snacking. Adding mini scoops or spoons can make it even more convenient and adorable.
Final Thoughts
This Reindeer Food (Christmas Puppy Chow) Recipe is one of those festive, crowd-pleasing treats that brings instant joy and holiday spirit. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavors and textures that make everyone smile. Whether you’re making it for a casual family snack or a lively holiday party, trust me, this recipe will become a beloved staple on your Christmas snack table. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and enjoy the magic of this sweet holiday classic!
Print
Reindeer Food (Christmas Puppy Chow) Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 12 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Reindeer Food, also known as Christmas Puppy Chow, is a festive and delicious holiday snack mix featuring crispy cereal coated in a luscious blend of chocolate, peanut butter, and powdered sugar, then sprinkled with colorful holiday candies. Perfect for sharing during Christmas gatherings or leaving out for Santa and his reindeer.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 9 cups Rice or Corn 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
- 1/2 cup red and green sprinkles or colored candies (e.g., M&Ms)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cereal: Measure out 9 cups of Rice or Corn Chex cereal and place it in a large mixing bowl, setting the base for your snack mix.
- Melt Chocolate Mixture: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, and 1/4 cup unsalted butter. Stir continuously until everything is fully melted and smooth.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Once the chocolate mixture is melted, remove it from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
- Coat the Cereal: Immediately pour the warm chocolate mixture over the cereal in the large bowl. Gently fold the cereal with a spatula or wooden spoon until every piece is evenly coated.
- Coat with Powdered Sugar: Transfer the chocolate-coated cereal into a large sealable plastic bag. Add 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar to the bag, seal it tight, and shake vigorously until all pieces are well-covered in powdered sugar.
- Add Sprinkles or Candies: Spread the coated snack onto a large baking sheet and sprinkle 1/2 cup red and green sprinkles or colored candies such as M&Ms over the top for a festive touch. Toss lightly to distribute evenly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the mixture to cool and set for about 20 minutes before serving. Once cooled, store in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Enjoy your festive Reindeer Food!
Notes
- Use creamy peanut butter for the smoothest coating. Natural peanut butter may alter texture.
- Chocolate can be substituted with milk or dark chocolate chips according to preference.
- For a nut-free version, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- This recipe is great for holiday parties and makes a fun gift when packaged in festive bags.
