📝 About This Recipe
A quintessential staple of Midwestern gatherings, Puppy Chow is a nostalgic, addictive snack that perfectly balances crunchy cereal with a rich, velvety coating of chocolate and peanut butter. Known as 'Muddy Buddies' in some circles, this no-bake treat is famous for its snowy exterior of powdered sugar and its satisfying, salty-sweet profile. Whether it's for a holiday party, a game day snack, or a cozy movie night, this recipe delivers the perfect ratio of chocolatey goodness to crispy crunch every single time.
🥗 Ingredients
The Base
- 9 cups Rice Cereal Squares (such as Chex; rice or corn varieties work best)
The Coating
- 1 1/2 cups Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips (high-quality chips result in a smoother melt)
- 3/4 cup Creamy Peanut Butter (avoid natural varieties that separate for best texture)
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (sliced into tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract (adds depth to the chocolate profile)
- 1/4 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt (to balance the sweetness)
The Finish
- 2 cups Powdered Sugar (sifted to ensure no lumps)
- 1 tablespoon Dutch-process Cocoa Powder (optional, for a deeper chocolate flavor in the dust)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Measure out exactly 9 cups of the rice cereal and place them into a very large mixing bowl. Ensure the bowl is big enough to allow for easy stirring without crushing the cereal.
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2
In a medium-sized microwave-safe glass bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, and the sliced unsalted butter.
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3
Microwave the chocolate mixture on high for 60 seconds. Remove and stir with a rubber spatula to begin incorporating the ingredients.
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4
Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each, until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy. This usually takes about 1.5 to 2 minutes total.
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5
Once the mixture is smooth, stir in the vanilla extract and the fine sea salt. The salt is the secret to making the flavors pop.
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6
Immediately pour the warm chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the cereal in the large bowl.
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7
Using a large rubber spatula, gently fold the mixture together. Use a 'bottom-to-top' motion to ensure every piece of cereal is coated without snapping the delicate squares.
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8
Keep folding until no dry cereal remains visible and the coating is evenly distributed.
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9
In a large (2-gallon) resealable plastic bag, or two 1-gallon bags, add the powdered sugar (and optional cocoa powder).
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10
Carefully transfer the chocolate-coated cereal into the bag with the powdered sugar. Seal the bag securely, leaving plenty of air inside to allow the pieces to move.
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11
Shake the bag vigorously for about 1 minute. You want the sugar to find every nook and cranny of the cereal squares.
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12
Spread the Puppy Chow out in a single layer onto a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper or wax paper.
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13
Allow the mixture to cool and set completely at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This ensures the coating hardens and the sugar stays put.
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14
Once set, break up any large clumps and transfer to a serving bowl or airtight storage container.
💡 Chef's Tips
Use a high-quality peanut butter like Jif or Skippy; natural peanut butters often have too much oil and can make the coating greasy. Sift your powdered sugar before adding it to the bag to prevent large white lumps from sticking to the cereal. If the mixture seems too wet, add an extra 1/4 cup of powdered sugar and shake again until it looks matte and dry. For a holiday twist, add a handful of red and green M&Ms or crushed candy canes after the mixture has cooled. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for an extra-crunchy, cold treat that lasts up to two weeks.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve in a large wooden bowl for a rustic, Midwestern potluck feel. Pair with a cold glass of whole milk to cut through the rich peanut butter and chocolate. Mix with pretzels and salted peanuts for a 'Sweet and Salty' party mix variation. Package in small cellophane bags with a ribbon for a charming and affordable homemade gift. Serve alongside a hot cup of coffee or cocoa during the winter months.