Description
Reindeer Chow is a fun, festive, and irresistible treat that’s perfect for the holidays. Made with Rice Chex cereal, creamy peanut butter, semi-sweet chocolate, and powdered sugar, this snack is coated in sweetness and crunch. With the added M&Ms, mini pretzels, and holiday sprinkles, it’s a treat the whole family will enjoy!
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 cups Rice Chex cereal (or any square cereal)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup red and green M&Ms
- 1 cup mini pretzels
- ½ cup festive holiday sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cereal:
Measure 6 cups of Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl. Make sure the bowl is large enough for easy mixing later. - Melt the Chocolate Mixture:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, and unsalted butter. Microwave the mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. Add vanilla extract and mix well. - Coat the Cereal:
Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal. Use a spatula to gently fold and coat the cereal evenly. Be careful not to crush the pieces while mixing. - Add Powdered Sugar:
Transfer the coated cereal into a large zip-top bag or a mixing bowl with a lid. Add 1 ½ cups of powdered sugar, seal tightly, and shake vigorously until all pieces are well coated in the sugar. - Cool the Cereal:
Spread the cereal mix onto a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool and dry for about 20 minutes. This step ensures that the coating sets and the snack is easy to eat. - Finish the Mix:
Once the mix has cooled, add the red and green M&Ms, mini pretzels, and festive holiday sprinkles (if using). Gently stir to combine all ingredients. Your Reindeer Chow is now ready to serve or store!
Notes
- For a peanut-free version, substitute peanut butter with sunbutter or almond butter.
- If you like a spicier version, add a pinch of cinnamon to the chocolate mixture for a subtle warm flavor.
- Store the Reindeer Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- This recipe is great for gifting during the holidays. Package it in mason jars or festive tins.
- You can make the mix ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack, Dessert, Holiday Treat
- Method: No-bake, Shaking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of the recipe
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg