The holidays are the perfect time for cozy sweaters, twinkling lights, and irresistible treats—and nothing says “holiday snack magic” quite like Christmas Puppy Chow. Also known as Muddy Buddies or Reindeer Chow, this sweet and crunchy mix combines Rice Chex cereal, chocolate, peanut butter, powdered sugar, and festive red and green M&M’s for a crowd-pleasing holiday classic. In this article, we’ll explore how to make Christmas Puppy Chow from scratch, variations to match any party theme, and tips to store it for weeks of indulgence. Plus, we’ll answer the most common questions about this addictive snack mix.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Apple Cinnamon Sheet Cake Recipe to pair with your festive snack table.
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What Is Christmas Puppy Chow and Why Everyone Loves It
The origin and many names of Puppy Chow
Despite its name, Puppy Chow isn’t for dogs—it’s a wildly popular human treat that got its name due to its resemblance to dog kibble. The original version became a Midwest favorite decades ago and was eventually adopted by Chex® under the name Muddy Buddies. Today, people know it by many festive names: Christmas Muddy Buddies, Reindeer Chow, Holiday Chex Mix, or even Snow Day Snack Mix. Whatever you call it, it’s beloved for its crispy, chocolaty, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Why it’s perfect for holiday snacking and gifting
This festive version of Puppy Chow is more than just tasty—it’s perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, goodie trays, and edible gifts. The combination of rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and a snowy layer of powdered sugar is both comforting and nostalgic. Add in red and green M&M’s, and you’ve got a treat that’s not only delicious but also visually festive.
Don’t miss our Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Recipe for another warm and gooey dessert idea!
The festive twist that makes it “Christmas” Puppy Chow
While traditional Puppy Chow is enjoyed year-round, the Christmas twist includes seasonal colors and flavors. Think green and red M&M’s, peppermint sprinkles, or even a dash of cinnamon to warm things up. This snack transforms into a winter wonderland mix with just a few small additions, making it the perfect DIY treat for your Christmas dessert table or gift baskets.
Discover great ideas like this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars to elevate your holiday dessert lineup.
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Perfect Christmas Puppy Chow
Base Ingredients and Substitutions (Chex, chocolate, peanut butter)
To create the ultimate Christmas Puppy Chow, you’ll only need a few pantry staples—plus your festive add-ins. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Purpose | Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Rice Chex Cereal (9 cups) | Provides the crunch and holds the coating | Corn Chex, Wheat Chex, or any square cereal |
| Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (1 cup) | Rich chocolate flavor | Milk or dark chocolate, white chocolate chips |
| Creamy Peanut Butter (¾ cup) | Creamy texture and nutty balance | Almond butter or sunflower seed butter (nut-free) |
| Unsalted Butter (¼ cup) | Makes the chocolate mixture silky | Salted butter (adjust salt) or coconut oil |
| Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) | Enhances flavor | Almond extract for a twist |
| Powdered Sugar (1½ cups or more) | Coats cereal for a sweet, snowy effect | Sifted coconut sugar (for a healthier swap) |
| Holiday M&M’s (½ cup) | Adds color and crunch | Sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or peppermint bark bits |
Using creamy peanut butter is key—it helps the chocolate spread evenly across the cereal. Try to avoid chunky varieties, which can lead to clumps.
Check out this Peach Bars Delicious Recipe for another fruit-forward holiday snack idea.
Optional Add-ins to Customize Your Mix
While the base recipe is a winner, customization makes it special. Here are fun extras you can stir in for color, texture, and flavor:
- Crushed candy canes for a peppermint kick
- Mini peanut butter cups
- Festive sprinkles or sanding sugar
- Crushed pretzels for a salty crunch
- Mini marshmallows
- Coconut flakes
Want more snack table options? Don’t miss our Smores Snack Mix Recipe for a campfire-inspired treat.
Gluten-free and allergen-friendly variations
Need allergy-friendly options? You can easily make this recipe gluten-free or nut-free:
- Use gluten-free certified Rice Chex
- Swap peanut butter with sunflower butter or WOWBUTTER for nut-free homes
- Skip the M&M’s or choose allergy-safe candies like Enjoy Life chocolate chips
Don’t forget to check out our No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls—another allergy-friendly holiday hit.
How to Make Christmas Puppy Chow Step-by-Step
Melting the chocolate and peanut butter mixture
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Add vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
Coating the cereal evenly
- Pour 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl.
- Drizzle the warm chocolate mixture over the cereal.
- Use a silicone spatula to gently fold until all pieces are evenly coated.
Finishing touches: powdered sugar and mix-ins
- Let the mixture cool slightly for 5 minutes.
- Add powdered sugar and gently shake in a large sealed bag (or use a bowl if preferred).
- Add red and green M&M’s or other mix-ins.
- Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 5 days.
Pro Tip: Want ultra-snowy Puppy Chow? Shake it twice. Coat once, shake, then add more powdered sugar and shake again.
Looking for more easy desserts? Try our Mini Cannoli Cups Recipe for bite-sized bliss.
Storage Tips to Keep Your Puppy Chow Fresh
Room temperature vs. refrigerated vs. frozen
One of the best things about Christmas Puppy Chow is its shelf life. Here’s how to store it:
- Room Temp: Keep it in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Ideal for party snack bowls.
- Refrigerated: Extends freshness up to 7 days, especially if your kitchen runs warm.
- Frozen: Yep—you can freeze Puppy Chow for up to 6 months. Just let it come to room temp before serving.
Looking for long-lasting Christmas goodies? Discover our Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies that freeze like a dream.
Best containers and portioning for holiday trays or gifting
For gifting, use cellophane bags tied with a festive ribbon or mini mason jars. For snack trays, consider parchment-lined tins or bowls with lids. This helps keep the snack fresh, dry, and giftable.
How long it stays fresh and how to revive it
If your Puppy Chow starts to soften, add a fresh dusting of powdered sugar and let it sit uncovered for 20–30 minutes. It’ll crisp back up.
Fun Holiday Variations of Puppy Chow
Color swaps and candy alternatives
Switch out the red and green M&M’s for:
- Pink and white (Valentine’s Day)
- Pastel hues (Easter)
- Orange and black (Halloween)
Or skip the candy and add white chocolate chips, crushed Oreos, or mini marshmallows instead.
Flavored puppy chow ideas (peppermint, caramel, etc.)
- Peppermint Bark Puppy Chow: Add crushed candy canes and a splash of peppermint extract.
- Caramel Drizzle: Use caramel chips in place of chocolate.
- S’mores Twist: Add mini marshmallows and graham cracker crumbs.
Looking for more flavor-packed bites? Don’t miss our Salted Maple Cinnamon Cold Brew Recipe to serve alongside.
Kid-friendly and adult-only (boozy) versions
For kids, swap out peanut butter with cookie butter or Nutella. For grown-ups, try mixing in a few tablespoons of Baileys or Kahlúa into the chocolate mixture (if you’re not serving children).
FAQs About Christmas Puppy Chow
What’s the best cereal for Puppy Chow?
Rice Chex is the classic go-to, but Corn Chex, Wheat Chex, or even Crispix work well too. Just avoid anything too fragile or sugary.
Can you freeze Christmas Puppy Chow?
Absolutely. Once cooled, store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 6 months. It’s perfect for make-ahead gifting or last-minute snack emergencies.
Is Puppy Chow gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free certified cereal and check that your mix-ins are safe (some brands of chocolate chips or candies may contain traces of gluten).
What’s the difference between Puppy Chow and Muddy Buddies?
Nothing! They’re the same recipe. Muddy Buddies is simply the branded version from Chex. Some also call it Reindeer Chow, Snow Snack, or Monkey Munch.
What’s the easiest way to coat the cereal with powdered sugar?
Use a large plastic bag (even a clean garbage bag!) to toss everything together. Shake until coated—no sticky hands!
Conclusion: Make Your Holiday Sweeter With Christmas Puppy Chow
There’s something undeniably nostalgic and joyful about a batch of Christmas Puppy Chow. Whether you’re setting it out for guests, packing it into gift bags, or sneaking a handful during movie night, this easy no-bake snack brings comfort and cheer to every bite. With simple ingredients and endless ways to customize it, Puppy Chow earns a permanent spot in your holiday treat rotation.
Don’t miss our Christmas Dessert Recipes for more jolly inspiration!
PrintChristmas Puppy Chow
Christmas Puppy Chow is a no-bake, sweet and crunchy holiday snack made with Chex cereal, chocolate, peanut butter, powdered sugar, and festive M&M’s. It’s perfect for holiday parties, gift bags, or cozy movie nights.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Snack, Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 9 cups Rice Chex Cereal
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (more if needed)
- 1/2 cup holiday M&M’s
Instructions
- Place the Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, add chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals until melted and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the melted mixture over the cereal and stir gently to coat all pieces evenly.
- Let cool for 5 minutes.
- Add powdered sugar and toss until fully coated. You can use a large plastic bag to shake the mix for even coating.
- Once cooled, stir in holiday M&M’s.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Notes
- You can substitute peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower butter for allergy-friendly options.
- Use different colored M&M’s to match other holidays.
- Store in the freezer for up to 6 months and let thaw before serving.
- To revive slightly soggy mix, add more powdered sugar and let air dry.
