Reindeer Food Recipe (christmas Puppy Chow) Recipe

When the holiday season rolls around, I’m all about simple, festive treats that make everyone at the table smile. This reindeer food recipe (a playful take on Christmas puppy chow) is the kind of snack that brings joy to both kids and grown-ups. It’s chocolatey, peanut buttery, crunchy, and coated in just the right amount of powdered sugar for that sweet snowy effect. Every bite is a mix of salty pretzels, sweet M&Ms, and crunchy cereal—and it’s just about impossible to stop at one handful. Trust me, this is the recipe that’ll have you sneaking bites straight from the bowl.

One Christmas Eve, I made a batch of this reindeer food for a family movie night. The idea was to serve it as a little snack to nibble on during Elf. But before I knew it, the entire family (myself included!) had devoured almost the whole batch before the opening credits ended. That’s the magic of this recipe—it’s addictive, but in the best, holiday-cheer kind of way. Now, it’s a tradition, and we always leave a little bowl out for Santa’s “reindeer” too (you know, just in case Rudolph and his friends have a sweet tooth).

Let’s dive into how to whip up this festive, no-bake treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your holiday lineup!

Reindeer Food Recipe (christmas Puppy Chow) Recipe

Where did Christmas puppy chow come from?

Puppy chow (also known as muddy buddies) actually originated as a Midwestern classic in the U.S. The original version is a simple mix of Rice Chex cereal, peanut butter, chocolate, and powdered sugar. It was a party favorite long before reindeer food made its festive debut. Over time, the recipe has taken on creative spins—adding holiday-themed candies, pretzels for a salty crunch, and other mix-ins to make it even more irresistible. This reindeer food version is perfect for Christmas celebrations and makes a great gift to share with friends and neighbors.

Let’s talk ingredients: the magic behind reindeer food

This recipe is all about the balance of textures and flavors—sweet, salty, creamy, and crunchy. Here’s a closer look at the key ingredients:

  • Rice Chex Cereal: The foundation of this recipe, Rice Chex provides the perfect crunch while staying light and airy. You could substitute Corn Chex or even Crispix if that’s what you have on hand!
  • Mini Pretzels: These add a salty, satisfying crunch that balances out the sweetness. I like to break them into bite-sized pieces for even distribution.
  • Chocolate Chips: Semisweet or dark chocolate melts into creamy perfection. If you’re a milk chocolate fan, go ahead and swap it out—this recipe is forgiving.
  • Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter binds everything together and adds richness. You can use almond butter or sunflower seed butter if you need a nut-free alternative.
  • Powdered Sugar: This gives the mix its classic “snowy” coating. Be generous—you want every piece to sparkle!
  • M&Ms: Red and green M&Ms add the holiday magic. You could also try holiday sprinkles or peppermint candies if you’re feeling adventurous.
  • Mini Peanut Butter Cups: These are the ultimate indulgent addition. Chop them into smaller pieces for a fun surprise in every handful.
Reindeer Food Recipe (christmas Puppy Chow) Recipe

Kitchen gear you’ll need (and what you can skip)

You don’t need much for this recipe, which is part of what makes it so great! Here’s what I recommend:

  • Large mixing bowls: You’ll need a couple of these—one for the cereal mixture and one for tossing everything in powdered sugar.
  • Microwave-safe bowl or saucepan: For melting the chocolate and peanut butter. If you’re short on time, the microwave is your best friend here, but a stovetop works just as well.
  • Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring everything together. Trust me, a spatula makes it so much easier to coat the cereal evenly.
  • Airtight container: For storing your reindeer food (if you can resist eating it all at once).

No fancy tools? No problem. You can even use a Ziploc bag to shake the powdered sugar onto the cereal if you prefer less mess.

Step-by-step: how to make reindeer food

Let’s break this recipe down into easy, manageable steps so you can whip it up in no time.

  1. Combine the cereal and pretzels: Grab a large mixing bowl and toss together your Rice Chex and broken pretzel pieces. This is your crunchy base.
  2. Melt the chocolate and peanut butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and creamy. (If you’re using a stovetop, melt everything over low heat while stirring constantly.)
  3. Coat the cereal mixture: Pour the warm chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the cereal and pretzels. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece gets coated.
  4. Chill briefly: Pop the bowl in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, just until the mixture starts to set. This keeps everything from getting too sticky when you add the powdered sugar.
  5. Powdered sugar time: In a separate large bowl, sprinkle ½ cup of powdered sugar on the bottom. Add half of your cereal mixture, top with another ½ cup of powdered sugar, and toss gently. Repeat with the remaining cereal and another ½ cup of powdered sugar. Keep tossing until everything is lightly coated.
  6. Chill again: Return the coated mixture to the fridge for another 30-60 minutes. This step helps everything firm up and makes it easier to handle.
  7. Add the mix-ins: Stir in the M&Ms and chopped mini peanut butter cups. Give it one final toss, and you’re done!

Pro tip: If you love a heavier powdered sugar coating, add a bit more (¼ cup at a time) until it’s just right.

Reindeer Food Recipe (christmas Puppy Chow) Recipe

Fun variations to try

This recipe is super customizable! Here are some ways to switch it up:

  • Gluten-free version: Swap the pretzels for gluten-free ones and double-check that your Rice Chex cereal is certified gluten-free.
  • Nut-free option: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter, and replace the mini peanut butter cups with more M&Ms or another chocolate candy.
  • Peppermint twist: Add crushed peppermint candies or mini candy canes for a refreshing holiday spin.
  • White chocolate version: Substitute white chocolate chips for a sweeter, creamier twist. (It looks extra snowy, too!)
  • Seasonal swaps: Make this recipe year-round by swapping the M&M colors—pastels for Easter, orange and black for Halloween, or red and pink for Valentine’s Day.

Serving and presentation ideas

Serve your reindeer food in a festive holiday bowl or portion it into little treat bags tied with red and green ribbons. It also looks adorable in mason jars—perfect for gifting! Sprinkle a few extra M&Ms on top for a pop of color, and maybe add a mini candy cane for extra cheer.

What to pair it with

This sweet and salty treat pairs beautifully with hot cocoa (especially if you add a candy cane stirrer) or a cozy glass of mulled wine. If you’re serving it at a party, try pairing it with sparkling cider for a festive vibe.

Storing and reheating tips

Reindeer food doesn’t need to be refrigerated. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature, and it’ll stay fresh for 5-7 days. If you’re making it ahead for a party, prepare it a day or two before for the best crunch.

Adjusting for larger or smaller groups

This recipe is easy to scale up or down! Just double or halve the ingredients depending on how many people you’re serving. If you’re making a bigger batch, use a larger mixing bowl (or divide the mixture into two bowls) so everything coats evenly.

Troubleshooting tips

  • Sticky cereal? Chill the chocolate-coated mixture a bit longer before tossing it in powdered sugar.
  • Powdered sugar not sticking? Add a bit more powdered sugar and gently toss until it clings to the cereal.
  • Mix-ins sinking? Wait until the cereal mixture is fully set before stirring in the M&Ms and peanut butter cups.

Ready to make some holiday magic?

I hope you’ll give this reindeer food recipe a try—it’s so much fun to make, and even more fun to eat! Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or sneaking handfuls yourself, it’s guaranteed to add a little extra sparkle to your holiday season.

Reindeer Food Recipe (christmas Puppy Chow) Recipe

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Reindeer food stays fresh for up to a week in an airtight container, so you can easily make it a day or two before your holiday celebrations.

2. Can I freeze reindeer food?
You can freeze it, but the powdered sugar coating might not stay as crisp. If you do freeze it, thaw it at room temperature before serving.

3. What other cereals can I use?
Corn Chex or Crispix are great substitutes for Rice Chex. You want something light and crunchy!

4. Can I make this vegan?
Absolutely. Use dairy-free chocolate chips, vegan peanut butter, and swap the M&Ms and mini peanut butter cups for vegan-friendly candies.

5. How do I keep it from getting soggy?
Make sure to chill the mixture enough after coating it in chocolate and peanut butter. This step helps it firm up before adding the powdered sugar.

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Reindeer Food Recipe (christmas Puppy Chow) Recipe

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 Festive and delicious reindeer food (Christmas puppy chow) made with Rice Chex, chocolate, peanut butter, and holiday candies. Perfect for parties!

  • Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups semisweet or dark chocolate chips
  • 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
  • 5 cups Rice Chex Cereal
  • 1 ½ cups mini pretzels broken into pieces
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 ½ cups red and green M&Ms
  • 1 cup mini peanut butter cups

Instructions

  1. Combine the cereal and pretzels: Grab a large mixing bowl and toss together your Rice Chex and broken pretzel pieces. This is your crunchy base.
  2. Melt the chocolate and peanut butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and creamy. (If you’re using a stovetop, melt everything over low heat while stirring constantly.)
  3. Coat the cereal mixture: Pour the warm chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the cereal and pretzels. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece gets coated.
  4. Chill briefly: Pop the bowl in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, just until the mixture starts to set. This keeps everything from getting too sticky when you add the powdered sugar.
  5. Powdered sugar time: In a separate large bowl, sprinkle ½ cup of powdered sugar on the bottom. Add half of your cereal mixture, top with another ½ cup of powdered sugar, and toss gently. Repeat with the remaining cereal and another ½ cup of powdered sugar. Keep tossing until everything is lightly coated.
  6. Chill again: Return the coated mixture to the fridge for another 30-60 minutes. This step helps everything firm up and makes it easier to handle.
  7. Add the mix-ins: Stir in the M&Ms and chopped mini peanut butter cups. Give it one final toss, and you’re done!

Pro tip: If you love a heavier powdered sugar coating, add a bit more (¼ cup at a time) until it’s just right.

Notes

Serving and presentation ideas

Serve your reindeer food in a festive holiday bowl or portion it into little treat bags tied with red and green ribbons. It also looks adorable in mason jars—perfect for gifting! Sprinkle a few extra M&Ms on top for a pop of color, and maybe add a mini candy cane for extra cheer.

  • Author: Nora
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert

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