Ever since my kids discovered this snack last Christmas, they beg me to make it year-round! It's this irresistible mix of chocolate-coated cereal, powdered sugar, and festive candies that'll have everyone reaching for more. The best part? It takes just minutes to throw together!
Why You'll Love Making This
- Uses simple ingredients you probably have right now
- Makes the cutest homemade gifts in mason jars
- Easy to double when the whole team's coming over
- Change up the candy colors for any holiday
- Takes me right back to childhood every time!
What Makes It Special
Think of this as the holiday version of classic muddy buddies. I coat Chex cereal with melted peanut butter and chocolate, shake it with powdered sugar, then toss in red and green M&Ms for that Christmas magic. My neighbor calls it Puppy Chow, but my kids insist on calling it Reindeer Chow during the holidays!
Your Shopping List
- Your Cereal: Any Chex works - I love the rice ones best.
- Peanut Butter: Smooth works great here.
- Real Butter: Makes everything better!
- Good Chocolate: Chips or chopped bars both work.
- Pure Vanilla: Just a splash.
- Powdered Sugar: For that snowy coating.
- M&Ms: Red and green for Christmas spirit!
Let's Make Some Magic
- The Chocolate Mix
- Get that chocolate mix going - melt peanut butter and butter in the microwave, about 30 seconds at a time. Stir in chocolate until it's all melty and smooth. Add that splash of vanilla for extra flavor.
- Coat The Cereal
- Pour half your cereal in a big bowl and drizzle with half that chocolate mixture. Stir it super gently - we don't want crushed cereal! Every piece should be nicely coated.
- The Shake-Up
- Here's my mom's trick: double up paper bags for strength, add some powdered sugar and your chocolate-coated cereal. Close it up tight and shake it like you mean it! Once it's all coated, toss in some M&Ms.
- Round Two
- Do it all again with your remaining ingredients - same steps, same love. This way everything gets evenly coated and perfectly mixed.
- Time To Enjoy
- That's it! Either start snacking right away (I always do!) or seal it up in an airtight container for later. Just try not to eat it all at once!
Keep It Fresh
- Stays perfect for a week in an airtight container.
- Want a cool treat? Try it straight from the freezer!
- Switch up those M&M colors for any holiday.
- Try crunchy peanut butter if you're feeling adventurous.
- Any chocolate works - use what you've got!
Pure Joy In Every Bite
This treat brings back such sweet memories, and now I'm making new ones with my own kids. It's perfect for movie nights, holiday parties, or packaging up as gifts. Just one warning - make extra because it disappears fast!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which Chex cereal works best?
Rice Chex is recommended but any variety works.
- Can I freeze this?
Yes, tastes great frozen!
- Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, for added texture.
- How should I store it?
In an airtight container, room temp or frozen.
- Can I customize the M&Ms?
Yes, use any seasonal colors for different holidays.