Extra Good Puppy Chow Recipe

Introduction

Puppy Chow is a beloved snack, perfect for sharing or enjoying by yourself. This version combines rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter for an irresistibly crunchy and sweet treat.

Ingredients

• 12-oz. box of Rice Chex cereal (about 10 cups)
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1/2 cup salted butter
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 2 cups powdered sugar (more as needed)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.
2. Step 2: Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt until well combined.
3. Step 3: Pour the chocolate mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. If needed, divide the cereal between two large bowls to make mixing easier.
4. Step 4: Gently fold the cereal with a wooden spoon, careful not to break the pieces, until evenly coated with the chocolate mixture.
5. Step 5: Transfer the coated cereal into a large resealable plastic bag. Add the powdered sugar on top, then seal the bag and shake gently to coat all pieces thoroughly, aiming for a moist and crunchy texture.
6. Step 6: Spread the coated Puppy Chow on baking sheets lined with parchment paper and allow to cool and set. For the best crunch and clustering, store in the freezer before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, toast the Rice Chex cereal lightly before coating to add a nutty depth.
• Substitute smooth peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a different twist.
• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne for a subtle spicy note.
• Use mini chocolate chips for quicker melting and smoother coating.

Storage

Store Puppy Chow in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks to maintain crunch and cluster texture. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving if you prefer it less firm. Avoid storing at room temperature for long periods, as it can become sticky or lose texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of regular peanut butter?

Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but it may alter the texture slightly. Natural peanut butter is usually thinner and may result in a looser coating, so consider reducing added butter slightly to compensate.

Is it necessary to use powdered sugar? Can I use something else?

Powdered sugar helps create the classic sweet, powdery coating. If you prefer a less sweet option, you can lightly dust with cocoa powder or skip it, but the traditional Puppy Chow texture depends largely on the powdered sugar coating.

Extra Good Puppy Chow Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 96 reviews

Extra Good Puppy Chow is a deliciously addictive snack made by coating crispy rice Chex cereal with a rich chocolate, peanut butter, and butter mixture, then dusting it with powdered sugar for a perfect sweet and crunchy treat. This recipe yields a large batch ideal for sharing or snacking throughout the week, with a delightfully satisfying cluster texture.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: About 10 cups 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Microwaving
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Primary Ingredients

• 12-oz. box of rice Chex cereal (about 10 cups)
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1/2 cup salted butter
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• pinch of salt
• 2 cups powdered sugar (more as needed / desired)

Instructions

1. Melt Chocolate Mixture: In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips, peanut butter, and salted butter by heating in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is fully smooth and melted.
2. Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt thoroughly into the melted chocolate mixture to enhance the flavor.
3. Combine with Cereal: Pour the chocolate mixture over the rice Chex cereal. Because this recipe yields a large quantity, divide the cereal into two large bowls when mixing to ensure even coating.
4. Mix Gently: Use a wooden spoon to gently fold the cereal into the chocolate, being careful not to crush or break the cereal pieces while ensuring they are well coated.
5. Coat with Powdered Sugar: Transfer the chocolate-coated cereal into a large resealable bag. Add the powdered sugar directly into the bag over the cereal. Seal the bag and shake gently to coat all the pieces with powdered sugar, aiming for a wet/dry hybrid approach that encourages clustering.
6. Cool and Set: Spread the coated cereal onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper and allow it to cool and set. For optimal texture and the best clusters, store the finished Puppy Chow in the freezer before serving.

Notes

• For best results, use creamy peanut butter to help the coating spread evenly.
• Adjust the amount of powdered sugar if you prefer a lighter or heavier coating.
• Storing in the freezer helps maintain crunch and cluster integrity but you can store at room temperature for up to a week in an airtight container.
• This recipe makes a large batch suitable for parties or gifting.

Keywords: puppy chow, chex mix, chocolate peanut butter snack, no-bake treat, party snack, sweet clusters