Reindeer Food Recipe (Christmas Puppy Chow)
Reindeer Food Recipe (Christmas Puppy Chow) is a beloved holiday snack that combines chocolate, peanut butter, and crunchy cereal into a sweet, irresistible treat. Synonymous with festive gatherings and cozy winter evenings, this Christmas Puppy Chow is incredibly easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends.
The playful name "Reindeer Food" evokes the joy and whimsy of the season, adding an extra sprinkle of magic to your holiday traditions.
Originating in the United States as a spin-off of the classic Midwestern "Muddy Buddies," Puppy Chow has become a staple at Christmas parties due to its simplicity and nostalgic flavors.
Over the years, families have adapted the recipe to include colorful candies, sprinkles, or even a dash of festive glitter to mimic the magical food Santa’s reindeer would love.
This treat is known for its perfect balance of textures and flavors – creamy chocolate and peanut butter coat crunchy Chex cereal, all dusted in a generous layer of powdered sugar.
Not only is this Reindeer Food Recipe (Christmas Puppy Chow) delightfully tasty, but it’s also easy for kids to help assemble, making it a fun family kitchen project. For tips on the history of similar party treats, visit the History of Snack Mixes page on Serious Eats.
Whether served in bowls, jars, or festive bags, this snack is sure to delight guests of all ages and bring a dash of North Pole spirit to your home.
Ingredients for Reindeer Food Recipe (Christmas Puppy Chow)
- 9 cups Rice Chex, Corn Chex, or a mix of both
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup red and green M&Ms or seasonal chocolate candies
- 1/4 cup festive holiday sprinkles (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions for Making Reindeer Food Recipe (Christmas Puppy Chow)
- Measure out the Chex cereal and place it in a large mixing bowl, setting aside.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and unsalted butter.
- Microwave the mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and fully combined (about 1 1/2 minutes total).
- Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to the melted mixture.
- Immediately pour the chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the cereal and gently toss with a spatula until all pieces are evenly coated.
- Transfer the coated cereal to a large zip-top bag or a clean paper grocery bag.
- Add the powdered sugar to the bag, seal, and shake vigorously until every cereal piece is well coated.
- Spread the puppy chow on parchment-lined baking sheets and let cool for 10-15 minutes.
- Once cool, mix in the M&Ms and festive sprinkles, tossing gently to distribute.
- Store the finished Reindeer Food (Christmas Puppy Chow) in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Nutritional Information
One serving of Reindeer Food Recipe (Christmas Puppy Chow), approximately 1/2 cup, contains about 230-260 calories, depending on the specific mix-ins and cereal used. This festive holiday snack provides about 8 grams of fat, coming primarily from the peanut butter, butter, and chocolate.
Sugars are higher in this snack, averaging around 16-20 grams per serving due to the chocolate chips, powdered sugar, and candy mix-ins. Each serving delivers about 30-35 grams of carbohydrates, mostly from the cereal and sweet additions.
Protein content is modest at 3-4 grams per serving, reflecting the presence of peanut butter. Fiber levels are relatively low as the base cereal is processed, but you can boost fiber by opting for whole grain Chex varieties. Sodium hovers around 100-120 mg per serving.
Since Reindeer Food Recipe (Christmas Puppy Chow) is a sweet treat, moderation is key. For those seeking more detailed nutrition data and tips for managing portion sizes for holiday snacks, visit the USDA FoodData Central website.
Enjoy this snack as part of a balanced diet during the holidays for a bit of festive indulgence.
Wine/Beverage Pairings With Reindeer Food Recipe (Christmas Puppy Chow)
Reindeer Food Recipe (Christmas Puppy Chow) is a versatile treat that pairs beautifully with a wide range of beverages for both children and adults. For family-friendly holiday gatherings, serve this festive snack alongside mugs of hot cocoa or classic eggnog.
The rich chocolate and peanut butter flavors are complemented by the creaminess of these traditional holiday drinks. For a refreshing nonalcoholic option, try a peppermint milkshake or a cranberry spritzer, which echoes the cheery colors and sweetness of the snack mix.
Adults seeking an elevated pairing might enjoy a glass of ruby port, which enhances the chocolate notes beautifully, or a sweet dessert wine like Moscato d’Asti. A cold glass of milk is always a popular and simple choice for kids, balancing out the sweetness while keeping things classic.
Each pairing helps set a cozy, festive atmosphere perfect for snacking and celebrating the season.
Cooking Tips and Variations
Make a perfect batch of Reindeer Food Recipe (Christmas Puppy Chow) with a few helpful tips and creative variations. When melting the chocolate and peanut butter, take care not to overheat, as this can cause the chocolate to seize and ruin the smooth texture.
Stir the mixture thoroughly between microwave intervals to ensure even melting. For even coating, add the melted chocolate mix to the cereal in several small pours, tossing gently after each addition. Use a large bowl or split the mix into two batches if working with smaller kitchenware.
If you want a less messy snack, try freezing the coated cereal for ten minutes before adding the powdered sugar; this helps the coating set. For added holiday cheer, consider swapping in white chocolate or dark chocolate chips.
You can add peppermint extract for a wintry twist or use colored candy melts for more visual appeal. Those wishing to make an allergen-friendly version can substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter and dairy-free chocolate to accommodate dietary needs.
Always store the finished Puppy Chow in a cool, dry place to prevent melting and clumping. Get creative with sprinkles, marshmallows, or even pretzel pieces to personalize the Reindeer Food to your family’s taste. For more variations and creative snack mixes, check out Taste of Home’s snack mix collection.
Serving Suggestions
There are countless ways to present and serve Reindeer Food Recipe (Christmas Puppy Chow) during the holiday season, adding a special touch to your festivities. Arrange the finished Puppy Chow in festive bowls scattered around the house during a Christmas party, allowing guests to scoop and snack at their leisure.
For a more personalized touch, portion the mix into clear cellophane bags or mason jars adorned with ribbons and holiday tags—these make delightful gifts for neighbors, teachers, or party guests.
To create a spectacular dessert table, pour the Reindeer Food into a decorative trifle dish or Christmas-themed bowls, sprinkling extra M&Ms or edible glitter on top for pizzazz. If you're serving children, consider providing small holiday-themed cups or paper cones to make the treat easier to handle and reduce mess.
This snack also works wonderfully as part of a hot chocolate bar, where guests can add the Puppy Chow as a fun, crunchy topping to their drinks. Incorporate it into cookie platters, or take it on car rides or holiday outings in resealable bags for a cheerful, portable snack.
However you choose to serve, Reindeer Food Recipe (Christmas Puppy Chow) brings extra sparkle and joy to any holiday gathering with its festive look and delightful flavor.
Reindeer Food Recipe (Christmas Puppy Chow) Health Benefits
Reindeer Food Recipe (Christmas Puppy Chow) is primarily a sweet, indulgent treat meant to be enjoyed on special occasions like Christmas. While it is high in simple carbohydrates and sugars, there are a few nutritional highlights worth noting.
Peanut butter provides a modest amount of protein and healthy unsaturated fats, which contribute to satiety and better energy balance. The base cereal, particularly when using whole grain versions, can supply a small boost of iron, B vitamins, and dietary fiber.
Moderation is key—this treat offers energy and can satisfy sweet cravings, but excessive consumption may contribute to unwanted calorie or sugar intake, especially for those monitoring blood sugar levels.
For those seeking a healthier option, dark chocolate or sugar-free chocolate chips, reduced-fat peanut butter, and lightly sweetened cereal can all help lighten the snack without compromising festive joy. Including nuts, seeds, or dried fruit in moderation can also enhance the recipe's nutrient profile.
Always consider portion sizes and balance this sweet snack with a variety of nutrient-dense foods throughout your holiday celebrations.
FAQs About Reindeer Food Recipe (Christmas Puppy Chow)
Can I make Reindeer Food Recipe (Christmas Puppy Chow) in advance?
Yes, this Christmas Puppy Chow can be made up to a week ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh and crunchy.
Is Reindeer Food the same as regular Puppy Chow?
Essentially, yes! The difference is often in the themed additions, like red and green candies or festive sprinkles, which make it visually perfect for Christmas.
Can I substitute different cereals in this recipe?
Absolutely. While Chex is traditional, you can use Crispix or another square cereal for similar results. Just ensure the cereal holds up well when coated.
How do I make this snack nut-free?
Swap the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter to make a nut-free version. Also, double-check your chocolate and candies for allergen warnings.
Is Reindeer Food Recipe (Christmas Puppy Chow) gluten-free?
It can be if you use gluten-free Chex cereal and verify that all mix-ins like candies and chocolate chips are gluten-free. Always read product labels carefully.
If you're looking to add an extra spark of cheer to your holiday gatherings, Reindeer Food Recipe (Christmas Puppy Chow) is the answer. This Christmas Puppy Chow blends the comforting aromas of chocolate and peanut butter with the crunch of cereal, all in a festive, easy-to-prepare package. It's the perfect holiday snack for parties, family movie nights, or as thoughtful edible gifts. With countless variations and serving ideas, you can make each batch as unique as your holiday celebrations. Let this recipe become a new family tradition and spread joy to everyone who tries it.
Ingredients
- 6 cups rice cereal squares (such as Chex)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup red and green M&M’s
- 1/4 cup holiday sprinkles
Instructions
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1In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, and unsalted butter. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir until smooth. Microwave for an additional 20 seconds if needed, until fully melted.
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2Stir in the vanilla extract, then add the rice cereal squares. Gently fold the mixture until all cereal is evenly coated.
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3Transfer the coated cereal to a large gallon-size zip-top bag. Add the powdered sugar. Seal the bag and shake vigorously to coat the cereal with powdered sugar.
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4Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let cool for 5 minutes.
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5Once cooled, sprinkle in the red and green M&M’s and holiday sprinkles. Toss gently to combine, then serve or store in an airtight container.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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