I love how festive and easy this Reindeer Food recipe is. It uses simple pantry staples and creates an irresistible combination of crunchy cereal, creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate, and colorful holiday candies. I also appreciate how customizable it is—I can tweak the ingredients to suit my preferences or whatever I have on hand. Plus, it’s always a hit with kids and adults alike. Whether I’m hosting a party or assembling treat bags, this recipe never disappoints.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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
Directions
I start by combining the Rice Chex cereal and broken pretzels in a large mixing bowl.
Then, I melt the peanut butter and chocolate together, either on the stovetop or in the microwave, until smooth.
I pour the melted mixture over the cereal and pretzels, stirring gently to coat everything evenly.
I place the bowl in the refrigerator and let it chill for about 30 minutes, just until the mixture begins to set.
In another large bowl, I sprinkle ½ cup powdered sugar at the bottom, add half of the chilled mixture, then top with another ½ cup of powdered sugar and the remaining cereal mix.
I toss everything gently to coat it with powdered sugar, making sure every piece is covered.
I chill the coated mixture again for another 30-60 minutes until it’s fully set.
I continue adding powdered sugar, ¼ cup at a time, if needed, until I get that perfect snowy look.
Finally, I stir in the M&Ms and mini peanut butter cups, then serve or pack for gifting.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields about 24 servings (½ cup each).
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Variations
Nut-Free Option: I substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or another allergy-friendly spread.
Cereal Swap: Sometimes I use Crispex instead of Rice Chex for a different texture.
Candy Choices: I like to change it up with crushed peppermint candies, mini marshmallows, or even chopped holiday-themed chocolate bars.
Flavor Twist: A dash of vanilla or a sprinkle of cinnamon in the melted mixture gives it a cozy holiday flair.
Gluten-Free Version: I use gluten-free pretzels and make sure my cereal is certified gluten-free.
Storage/Reheating
I store my Reindeer Food in an airtight container:
At room temperature: Up to 5–7 days
In the refrigerator: Up to 1 week
In the freezer: Up to 1 month
When I freeze it, I let it thaw at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving to avoid moisture making it soggy.
FAQs
What’s the difference between puppy chow and reindeer food?
Reindeer Food is a festive twist on traditional puppy chow, typically made with seasonal candies like red and green M&Ms and peanut butter cups to make it more Christmas-themed.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, I often make this recipe a few days in advance. It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for holiday prep.
Can I use white chocolate instead of semisweet?
I can, but I find white chocolate makes the mix sweeter. If I’m going for a more balanced flavor, I stick with semisweet or dark chocolate.
Is this safe for kids to make?
Absolutely. I often get the kids involved in stirring and adding the powdered sugar. Just be cautious with the melted chocolate and peanut butter step.
Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Yes, I use a nut-free butter like sunflower seed butter and double-check all other ingredients to make sure they’re allergen-friendly.
Conclusion
This Reindeer Food recipe is one of my go-to holiday treats for good reason—it’s quick, fun, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether I’m whipping up a batch for a Christmas party or packaging it for gifts, this festive puppy chow never fails to spread a little holiday magic.
A festive and easy Christmas puppy chow snack mix made with chocolate, peanut butter, Chex cereal, and holiday candies. Perfect for gifting to neighbors or serving at your next holiday party!
Ingredients
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 (plus more as needed)
1 ½ cups red and green M&Ms
1 cup mini peanut butter cups
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine Rice Chex cereal and pretzel pieces.
Melt peanut butter and chocolate chips together on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Pour the melted mixture over the cereal and pretzels; stir to coat evenly.
Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes until the mixture begins to set.
In a new large bowl, add ½ cup powdered sugar. Add half the chilled mixture, then sprinkle another ½ cup powdered sugar and add the remaining mix.
Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
Chill again for 30–60 minutes until set.
Add more powdered sugar, ¼ cup at a time, until desired coating is achieved.
Stir in red and green M&Ms and mini peanut butter cups.
Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy, or store in an airtight container.
Notes
Chocolate Options: Dark or semi-sweet chocolate is preferred. Allergy-friendly brands like Hu Kitchen or Enjoy Life can be used.
Nut Butter: Substitute with almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter if needed.
Cereal Options: Rice Chex is preferred, but Crispex works as a substitute.
Pretzels: Use mini pretzels or sticks, broken into smaller pieces.
Candy Variations: Customize with your favorite festive candy.
Storage: Store at room temp (5–7 days), refrigerator (up to 1 week), or freeze (up to 1 month).
