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We've become hooked on this sweet snack combo–crispy rice cereal and that sugar-dusted chocolate treat we all called Puppy Chow growing up. The first time I posted instructions on my blog, I couldn't keep up with messages from parents saying their kids wanted more and more. It's such a fun mix: crunchy cereal, peanut butter chocolate coating, loads of powdered sugar. I suggest making extra–it vanishes fast.
Irresistible Story Behind This Snack
This all started one afternoon when my kids wouldn't stop asking for Rice Krispies bars and Puppy Chow at the same time. Trying to save myself some time, I just mixed the whole thing up together. Totally worked. The cereal has the perfect bite, and all that chocolate peanut butter magic sticks to it. My three kiddos and their pals wiped out the entire bowl in no time at all. Oven stays off too–a total win when it's warm outside.
Grab These Simple Things
- Milk chocolate chips: Pick one cup of your favorite–I've used lots of brands and can't tell the difference, honestly.
- Peanut butter: You want a cup of smooth, regular peanut butter. Skip the natural–it's too oily for this.
- Rice Krispies cereal: Get six cups. Make sure they're crisp–I like to shake the box and listen for that crackling sound before buying.
- Powdered sugar: One and a half cups, and if it's lumpy, just sift it real quick–no one wants a sugary clump.
Time to Whip It Up
- Finish Strong
- After you've mixed and coated everything, spread the snack out on a big pan, or just scoop it into a bowl. Let it cool off completely first–speaking from experience, you don't want to dig in while it's sticky or wet.
- Sweet Shake Step
- Now for the part my kids love–toss everything in a massive zip-top bag, dump in the powdered sugar, and seal it tight. Give it a really good shake until each piece looks white and powdery all over.
- Mix It All Up
- Pour the warm chocolate-peanut butter mix over your pile of Rice Krispies in the biggest bowl you have. Carefully fold everything together without smashing the cereal.
- Start with Melting
- Set your saucepan over low. Add chocolate chips and peanut butter, and keep stirring until it's smooth and totally melted. Don't step away–the first time I left it alone, it burned super fast.
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My Keep-It-Easy Tips
After tons of messes and fixes in my kitchen, here’s what I stick to: grab the freshest cereal you can, since old Rice Krispies make everything taste funky. Keep your stove really low so nothing scorches. Stir well for the best coating. Wait until it’s totally cool to shake on the sugar–trust me, I rushed it and made a sticky mess. When it’s bag-shaking time, really go for it.
Shake Up the Flavors
We love switching things around every so often. Almond butter is my swap for peanut butter when my almond-loving sister pops by. If you like rich treats, switch in dark chocolate. Just grab gluten-free cereal for any gluten allergies. For kids with nut problems, sunflower seed butter is awesome. I like to mix in pretzel chunks or tiny marshmallows if I’m feeling inspired.
Fun Ways to Enjoy
This treat fits anywhere. I dump a heap in a bowl for potlucks and it’s always gone. Little kid lunch packs? Portion some in baggies. Cold milk on the side makes it perfect for afternoon snack breaks. When friends drop over for book club, I set it out with strawberries–everybody digs in quick.
How to Make It Last
Seal the snacks up tight on the counter and they’ll stay crispy for up to seven days. If you stash them in the fridge, they’re good for about two weeks. In the freezer, they last up to three months–just let them warm to room temperature. If they get soft, pop them onto a baking sheet, bake at 250°F for ten minutes, then cool–they’ll be crunchier again.
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Make It Yours
The coolest thing about this snack is mixing in anything you want. Mini chocolate chips are a favorite at our place. My kiddo loves rainbow candies mixed in. I’ve thrown in dark chocolate and cashew butter lately and it was a hit. Try fun add-ins like crushed cookies or bits of toffee–or just whatever you’re in the mood for. Don’t stress; this is one of the easiest treats for experimenting.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different types of chocolate?
Try milk, dark, or white chocolate chips—any of them work. They'll just change up the taste a bit but the texture stays the same.
- → How should I store these treats?
Pop them in a sealed container and keep at room temp. They'll be good for up to 5 days if you seal them right.
- → Can I substitute the peanut butter?
Swap in almond or cashew butter if you want. Creamy works best so everything mixes smoothly.
- → Why are my treats too sticky?
They're probably missing a bit of powdered sugar. Just toss them back in the bag with more sugar and gently shake—should help right away.
- → Can I make these ahead for a party?
You can prep them 2 or 3 days before. Keep them sealed and sprinkle a bit more powdered sugar before you serve.
Conclusion
Crispy cereal, lots of chocolate, and peanut butter come together with a shake of powdered sugar. You only need 15 minutes, so they're great for a last-minute sweet snack or party bite.