Irresistible Double Chocolate Peppermint Puppy Chow: Your New Holiday Favorite
There’s something inherently nostalgic and comforting about puppy chow (or muddy buddies, as some prefer to call it). That irresistible blend of cereal coated in chocolate and peanut butter, then dusted with powdered sugar, has been a favorite snack for generations. However, as delightful as the classic version is, it often presents a challenge for those with peanut allergies or simply a dislike for peanut butter. My own husband, for instance, isn’t a fan of peanut butter, which meant I had to get creative to satisfy my kids’ love for this crunchy treat!
This past fall, I ventured into new territory and created a Pumpkin Spice Muddy Buddies recipe that was an absolute hit with everyone. That success sparked an idea: why limit puppy chow to just one season or flavor profile? With the holiday season approaching, my mind immediately drifted to festive flavors. The moment I spotted those delightful White Chocolate Peppermint Kisses and festive M&M’s in the store, inspiration struck. I knew exactly what my next holiday creation would be: a spectacular Double Chocolate Peppermint Puppy Chow!
Why This Peppermint Puppy Chow Will Be Your Holiday Star
This isn’t just another puppy chow recipe; it’s a festive transformation! The combination of rich chocolate, cool peppermint, and a hint of sweet white chocolate makes this snack truly stand out. It’s the perfect treat for:
- Holiday Parties: A crowd-pleaser that disappears fast.
- Edible Gifts: Package it beautifully in a jar or festive bag for a thoughtful homemade present.
- Movie Nights: A delightful snack to munch on during holiday films.
- School Treats: A nut-free option (always double-check all ingredient labels for hidden allergens) that kids will adore.
- Simply Indulging: Because sometimes, you just need a delicious, easy-to-make treat for yourself!
What makes this recipe even better is its simplicity. It’s a no-bake wonder that comes together in mere minutes, making it ideal for busy holiday schedules when oven space is precious and time is short. You won’t need any complex baking skills or fancy equipment – just a microwave, a large bowl, and a sturdy spoon (or a large zip-top bag for easy shaking!).
The Magic of Peppermint and Chocolate
Peppermint and chocolate are a classic holiday pairing for a reason. The invigorating coolness of peppermint perfectly complements the rich, deep flavors of chocolate. In this recipe, we amplify that experience by using chocolate Chex cereal as our base, giving us the “double chocolate” element from the start. Then, we introduce the creamy, sweet white chocolate peppermint kisses, which not only provide a delightful coating but also infuse every piece with that unmistakable holiday mint flavor. Finally, a generous addition of white chocolate peppermint M&M’s adds extra texture, visual appeal, and another layer of delicious peppermint chocolate goodness.
The beauty of this particular puppy chow is its vibrant, festive appearance. The melted peppermint kisses create a slightly pinkish hue, which, combined with the colorful M&M’s and the dusting of pristine white powdered sugar, makes for a truly eye-catching treat. It looks as good as it tastes, which is essential for holiday entertaining.
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Print Recipe
Double Chocolate Peppermint Puppy Chow
Kick up your puppy chow by making it Double Chocolate Peppermint Puppy Chow – a simple, festive, and utterly delicious no-bake treat perfect for the holidays!
5 mins
1 min
6 mins
8 cups
653 kcal
Michaela Kenkel
Ingredients
- 2 cups white chocolate peppermint kisses melted
- 1 – 14 ounce box of chocolate chex cereal
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 package white chocolate peppermint M&M’s
Instructions
- Place the white chocolate peppermint kisses in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each, until completely smooth and melted. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can seize. It will be beautifully pink and smooth!
- Pour the entire box of chocolate Chex cereal into a very large mixing bowl. Gently pour the melted peppermint white chocolate over the cereal. Using a sturdy spatula, carefully stir until all the cereal pieces are evenly coated. Try to be gentle to prevent crushing the cereal.
- In a large (2-gallon) zip-top bag, combine the coated cereal and the powdered sugar. Seal the bag, leaving a little air inside, and shake vigorously until every piece of cereal is thoroughly coated in the powdered sugar. This step creates the classic “muddy” or “puppy chow” appearance and adds a delightful sweetness.
- Once coated, transfer the mixture back to the large bowl or spread it out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Immediately add the entire package of white chocolate peppermint M&M’s, scattering them throughout the puppy chow. Gently toss to distribute them evenly.
- Allow the puppy chow to cool completely before serving. This will help the chocolate set and prevent it from becoming sticky. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Nutrition
Calories: 653kcal |
Carbohydrates: 107g |
Protein: 6g |
Fat: 24g |
Saturated Fat: 13g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 9g |
Cholesterol: 13mg |
Sodium: 369mg |
Fiber: 1g |
Sugar: 78g
Tips for Puppy Chow Perfection
- Gentle Mixing: When coating the cereal with chocolate, be gentle to avoid crushing the delicate Chex pieces. A silicone spatula works wonders for this.
- Zip-Top Bag for Shaking: While you can toss the cereal and powdered sugar in a large bowl, a large zip-top bag ensures the most even coating with minimal mess. Plus, it’s fun to shake!
- Cooling Time: Don’t skip the cooling step. This allows the chocolate to fully set, preventing the puppy chow from clumping together and becoming too sticky. You can spread it out on parchment paper on a baking sheet to speed up cooling.
- Storage: Always store your finished puppy chow in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent it from getting stale. It can be stored at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for an even longer shelf life, offering a delightful chilled crunch.
Unleash Your Creativity: Variations and Customizations
While this Double Chocolate Peppermint Puppy Chow is perfect as is, there are always ways to adapt it to your preferences or to use up other holiday candies:
- Extra Peppermint Kick: For an even more intense peppermint flavor, add about ½ teaspoon of pure peppermint extract to the melted white chocolate before pouring it over the cereal.
- Crushed Candy Canes: After coating with powdered sugar, sprinkle in some crushed candy canes along with the M&M’s for an extra burst of minty crunch and vibrant red color.
- Different Chocolates: Experiment with different types of chocolate. You could melt semi-sweet chocolate chips with a tablespoon of coconut oil for the coating, then add peppermint extract. The possibilities are endless!
- Sprinkle Magic: For extra festive flair, add some holiday sprinkles along with the M&M’s. Gold, silver, red, and green sprinkles can make this treat even more appealing for Christmas parties.
- Nut-Free Assurance: While this recipe is inherently peanut-free, always check the labels of your ingredients (especially cereals and candies) to ensure they are manufactured in a nut-free facility if you are serving someone with severe allergies.
- More Chocolate Varieties: Consider using a mix of milk chocolate and white chocolate chips for the coating if you can’t find peppermint kisses, then just add peppermint extract. This would truly enhance the “double chocolate” aspect.
A Festive Treat for Every Occasion
This Double Chocolate Peppermint Puppy Chow is more than just a snack; it’s a celebration in a bowl. It embodies the joy and warmth of the holiday season, offering a comforting yet exciting flavor profile that appeals to both children and adults. Its ease of preparation means you can whip up a batch in minutes, leaving you more time to enjoy the festivities with family and friends.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dessert, a thoughtful homemade gift, or a delightful treat to share, this peppermint puppy chow is sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions. Give it a try this season, and prepare to fall in love with its irresistible charm and festive flavor!