Pumpkin Spice Puppy Chow is the ultimate fall snack, perfect for cozy nights in or festive gatherings. This sweet, crunchy treat combines the warm flavors of pumpkin pie spice with white chocolate, peanut butter, and crispy Chex cereal. It's an easy recipe to whip up, but the result is a delicious, seasonal snack that’s sure to be a hit at any fall event. Whether you're making it for your family, friends, or a neighborhood party, this treat will quickly disappear, leaving everyone craving more.
INGREDIENTS
- 9 cups corn chex cereal: The crispy base for the puppy chow, which holds the coating of sweet flavors.
- 1 cup white chocolate chips: Adds a rich, creamy sweetness that blends with the other ingredients.
- 1/4 cup peanut butter: Brings a subtle nutty flavor that complements the white chocolate.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Helps create a smooth, rich mixture that coats the cereal evenly.
- 1/4 cup pumpkin puree: Adds a hint of pumpkin flavor, enhancing the fall theme.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the overall flavor with a touch of warmth and sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: The star of the show, providing the classic flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- 3 cups powdered sugar: Coats the cereal, giving it a light, sweet crunch with every bite.
- 1 cup Reese’s pieces candy: Adds a burst of peanut butter and chocolate flavor, plus a festive pop of color.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt together the white chocolate chips, peanut butter, and unsalted butter. Microwave in 20-second increments, stirring well between each interval until smooth and creamy.
- Step 2:
- Once the mixture is melted and smooth, stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Step 3:
- Place the corn chex cereal in a large bowl. Pour the melted mixture over the cereal, stirring gently to coat the cereal evenly with the sweet pumpkin spice mixture.
- Step 4:
- Add the powdered sugar to two large plastic zip bags, dividing it evenly. Then, transfer the coated cereal into the bags, seal them, and shake well to coat the cereal in powdered sugar.
- Step 5:
- Dump the coated cereal onto a large baking sheet and spread it out evenly. Allow it to set for about 1 hour, letting the coating firm up and become crispy.
- Step 6:
- Once the cereal has set, mix in the Reese’s pieces candy. Toss everything together gently, and your Pumpkin Spice Puppy Chow is ready to serve!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Pumpkin Spice Puppy Chow is best served fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain the crunchy texture.
- This snack is perfect for fall gatherings, Halloween parties, or even as a festive gift. Package it in small bags or jars for a fun and easy treat to share with friends and neighbors.
- If the weather is warm, you may want to refrigerate the puppy chow to prevent the chocolate from melting.
Helpful Notes
- Feel free to swap out Reese’s pieces for M&Ms, chocolate chips, or any of your favorite candies. You can also add chopped nuts or pretzels for extra crunch and flavor.
- For a stronger pumpkin flavor, you can add more pumpkin puree to the mixture, but be careful not to add too much, as it may make the cereal soggy.
- This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adjusted for different seasons. Try different flavored candies or spices to make it your own!
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Alton Brown: “When melting chocolate or butter in the microwave, always use short intervals and stir frequently to avoid burning and ensure a smooth texture.”
- Chef Martha Stewart: “For an elevated touch, drizzle white chocolate over the finished puppy chow for a decorative finish. It adds both visual appeal and an extra layer of sweetness.”
- Chef Ree Drummond: “Adding a touch of sea salt on top of the puppy chow before it sets can enhance the sweetness and add a perfect balance of flavors.”