Puppy Chow, also known as “Muddy Buddies,” is a beloved snack made with peanut butter, chocolate, rice cereal, and a coating of confectioners’ sugar. This simple no-bake treat is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or just as a sweet indulgence! With its crunchy, chocolatey goodness, it’s a snack that people of all ages will love.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chocolate: Semi-sweet chocolate chips work best for this recipe, adding a perfect balance of sweetness and depth of flavor. However, you can also try milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter version.
Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter is the ideal choice for this recipe because it coats the cereal evenly. If you have nut allergies, feel free to substitute with almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter.
Vanilla Extract: Adding a teaspoon of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making the mixture smooth and creamy.
Rice Cereal: Rice Chex is the preferred cereal for puppy chow, but any similar waffle-shaped cereal will work perfectly.
Confectioners’ Sugar: This sweet dusting helps to balance out the flavors while keeping the treat from being too sticky.
How to Store Puppy Chow
You can store puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For long-term storage, it can be frozen for up to two months. However, it’s so delicious that it usually disappears long before then!
Ingredients
- 1 cup (170 g) semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup (130 g) creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 2 cups (250 g) confectioners’ sugar
Instructions
- Melt the Chocolate Mixture: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and peanut butter. Microwave on high in 30-second intervals, stirring after each session until the mixture is completely smooth.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract to the melted chocolate and peanut butter mixture.
- Coat the Cereal: In a large mixing bowl, add the Rice Chex cereal. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal and gently stir until all the cereal pieces are evenly coated.
- Add Confectioners’ Sugar: Transfer the coated cereal into a large resealable plastic bag (such as a Ziplock). Add the confectioners’ sugar to the bag, seal it, and shake until all the cereal is well-coated in sugar.
- Let It Cool: Spread the cereal mixture onto parchment paper or waxed paper, allowing it to cool and the chocolate to set.
- Store and Enjoy: Once cool, transfer the puppy chow to an airtight container and store it on the counter or in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Tips for Storing Puppy Chow
- At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
- In the Fridge: Extend its shelf life by storing it in the refrigerator.
- In the Freezer: Puppy chow can also be stored in the freezer for up to two months, making it a perfect make-ahead treat!
Enjoy this irresistible and easy-to-make Puppy Chow as a treat for your next event or as a sweet snack for yourself!
