Best Ever Puppy Chow (Muddy Buddies)

Vintage green glass bowl filled with homemade puppy chow which is also called muddy buddies

Best Ever Puppy Chow (Muddy Buddies)

Get the easiest recipe for puppy chow ever! I grew up calling this reindeer chow because we only made it at Christmas, but you might call it puppy chow or muddy buddies. No matter what you call, it, this recipe is a delightful treat filled with crunchy cereal, melted chocolate and peanut butter, and a whole lot of powdered sugar!

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword Easy Muddy Buddies Recipe, Homemade Puppy Chow, Muddy Buddies Recipe, Puppy Chow, Puppy Chow Recipe, Reindeer Chow

Cook Time 10

Total Time 10

Servings servings

Calories 520kcal

Cost $10

Ingredients

12 oz box crunchy cereal like Chex
1 bag dark chocolate chips 10-12oz
3/4 cup peanut butter creamy, not crunchy!
1/2 cup butter we use salted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 lb powdered sugar actual usage amount will vary, see instructions

Instructions

Place chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter into a large glass bowl and heat over a double boiler, or in the microwave in 30 second intervals. Melt until smooth, then stir in vanilla extract.
Add cereal to a very large bowl that will allow lots of mixing.
Pour the chocolate mixture over the cereal and gently fold them together.
Pour half of the powdered sugar over the chocolate-coated cereal and stir gently until coated. Add more as needed until the cereal is coated to your desired level.

Notes

Common Questions

Why is it called Puppy Chow?

Puppy chow, also known as muddy buddies, is a delicious snack made with Chex cereal coated in a mixture of chocolate, peanut butter, and powdered sugar. The name "puppy chow" comes from its resemblance to dog food but rest assured, it's just an amazing human treat!

Can I use a different cereal instead of Chex for puppy chow?

Absolutely! Rice Chex cereal is traditionally used in this recipe, however, you can also use wheat Chex or even an organic version like the Cascadian Farms Multi Grain Squares (this is what we use). Whatever you do, don't use an overly sweetened cereal, as it will throw off the sweet and salty balance of the recipe. You can also experiment with other cereals like Crispix, Rice Krispies, or even pretzels for a unique twist. Just ensure they have a nooks-and-cranies texture for the perfect coating.

Can I make puppy chow without peanut butter for those with allergies?

Certainly! If peanut allergies are a concern, you can substitute with almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or any other nut or seed butter of your choice. The key is to maintain a creamy texture for the coating.

How should I store leftover puppy chow, and how long does it stay fresh?

Store puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh for about 2 weeks, although it's so irresistible; it's unlikely to last that long! If you need it to last longer, consider refrigerating or freezing it and bring it back to room temperature before serving.

Can I add other mix-ins like candy or nuts to the puppy chow recipe?

Absolutely! Puppy chow is highly customizable. Feel free to toss in candy-coated chocolate, candy corn, nuts, sprinkles, or any other favorite treats after the initial coating. Just ensure they complement the flavors and textures for an extra delicious treat.

Can I use a different type of chocolate for the coating?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of chocolate, such as milk, white, or even flavored varieties. Keep in mind that the sweetness and consistency may vary, so adjust the powdered sugar accordingly for the perfect balance.

Nutrition