Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive and Fun: The vibrant green color and optional themed add-ins make it perfect for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
- Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is straightforward and convenient.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with your favorite mix-ins or adjust the sweetness to your liking.
Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup green candy melts
- ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ tablespoon vegetable or canola oil
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- Optional add-ins:
- ¼ cup green M&M’s
- ¼ cup shamrock sprinkles
- ¼ cup Lucky Charms shamrock marshmallows
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the green candy melts, peanut butter, and oil. Microwave on high for 30 seconds, stir, and continue microwaving in 15-second intervals until smooth.
- Coat the Cereal: Place the Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl. Pour the melted mixture over the cereal and gently stir until evenly coated.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Transfer the coated cereal into a gallon-sized ziplock bag. Add the powdered sugar, seal the bag, and shake until all cereal pieces are thoroughly covered.
- Set and Add Mix-Ins: Spread the powdered sugar-coated cereal onto a baking sheet lined with wax or parchment paper. Allow it to set. Once set, sprinkle your chosen add-ins over the top and mix gently.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 12 servings
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 minute
- Additional Time: 4 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Mint Flavor: Add 1 teaspoon of mint extract to the melted mixture for a refreshing twist.
- Different Colors: Substitute green candy melts with other colors to suit various holidays or themes.
- Alternative Nut Butters: Replace peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
Store the Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For extended freshness, keep it in the refrigerator. This snack is best enjoyed at room temperature and does not require reheating.
FAQs
What is Puppy Chow?
Puppy Chow, also known as Muddy Buddies, is a snack mix made from Chex cereal coated in a mixture of melted chocolate (or candy melts), peanut butter, and powdered sugar.
Can I use white chocolate instead of candy melts?
Yes, you can substitute white chocolate chips for candy melts. Adding green food coloring will achieve the festive color.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Rice Chex cereal is gluten-free, but always check the packaging to ensure all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
How long does Puppy Chow last?
When stored in an airtight container, Puppy Chow can stay fresh for up to a week.
Can I freeze Puppy Chow?
Yes, you can freeze Puppy Chow. Place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Enjoy it straight from the freezer or let it come to room temperature.
What other mix-ins can I add?
Feel free to add pretzels, nuts, or other themed candies to customize your Puppy Chow.
Why is it called Puppy Chow?
The name comes from its resemblance to dog food kibble, but rest assured, this treat is meant for human consumption only.
Can I make this without peanut butter?
Yes, you can omit the peanut butter or substitute it with another nut or seed butter.
How can I make it less sweet?
Reduce the amount of powdered sugar or choose unsweetened add-ins to decrease the overall sweetness.
Is there a way to make it dairy-free?
Use dairy-free candy melts and a plant-based butter alternative to make this recipe dairy-free.
Conclusion
This St. Patrick’s Day Puppy Chow is a delightful and festive treat that’s sure to be a hit at any celebration. Its crunchy texture, sweet flavor, and customizable options make it a go-to snack for the holiday. Enjoy crafting this easy recipe and sharing it with friends and family!
Print
St. Patrick’s Day Puppy Chow Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with this fun and festive Puppy Chow (Muddy Buddies)! This easy no-bake snack features Chex cereal coated in creamy peanut butter, green candy melts, and powdered sugar, then topped with holiday-themed mix-ins. Perfect for parties, this crunchy and sweet treat is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike!
Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup green candy melts
- ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ tablespoon vegetable or canola oil
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Optional Add-ins:
- ¼ cup green M&M’s
- ¼ cup shamrock sprinkles
- ¼ cup Lucky Charms shamrock marshmallows
Instructions
- Prepare the Coating – In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the green candy melts, peanut butter, and oil together. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
- Coat the Cereal – Place the Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl. Pour the melted mixture over the cereal and gently stir to coat evenly.
- Add Powdered Sugar – Transfer the coated cereal into a gallon-sized ziplock bag. Add powdered sugar, seal, and shake until all pieces are covered.
- Set and Add Mix-Ins – Spread the coated cereal on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and allow it to set. Once set, mix in your chosen add-ins and enjoy!
Notes
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Customization: Try adding mint extract, using different colored candy melts, or swapping peanut butter for almond or cashew butter.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use certified gluten-free ingredients to keep this snack safe for gluten-sensitive guests.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Additional Time: 4 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 minute
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with this fun and festive Puppy Chow (Muddy Buddies)! This easy no-bake snack features Chex cereal coated in creamy peanut butter, green candy melts, and powdered sugar, then topped with holiday-themed mix-ins. Perfect for parties, this crunchy and sweet treat is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike!
