Reindeer Chow Recipe
Introduction
Reindeer Chow is a delightful holiday treat that’s both sweet and crunchy. This easy-to-make snack combines chocolate, peanut butter, and crispy cereal for a festive, addictive snack perfect for sharing or enjoying anytime.

Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring after each, until the mixture is melted and smooth.
- Step 2: Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Step 3: Pour the melted mixture over the Rice Chex cereal and gently stir until all pieces are evenly coated.
- Step 4: Sprinkle powdered sugar over the coated cereal and toss lightly to cover the pieces with a festive dusting.
- Step 5: Spread the mixture on wax or parchment paper to cool and set. Once dry, break apart and enjoy.
Tips & Variations
- For a nut-free version, substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or omit it entirely.
- Add festive mix-ins like candy canes or holiday sprinkles for extra color and crunch.
- Use white chocolate chips instead of semisweet chocolate for a sweeter twist.
Storage
Store Reindeer Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you prefer it chilled, keep it in the refrigerator, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving to soften slightly. Avoid storing in humid areas to maintain crispiness.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a stovetop instead of a microwave to melt the chocolate and peanut butter?
Yes, gently melt the chocolate, peanut butter, and butter in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, stirring until smooth. This method provides more control over the melting process.
What type of cereal works best for Reindeer Chow?
Rice Chex is traditional because its shape holds the coating well and it remains crispy. However, you can substitute with other similar cereals like Corn Chex or Wheat Chex for different textures and flavors.
Print
Reindeer Chow Recipe
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: About 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Reindeer Chow is a festive and irresistible sweet snack mix featuring crunchy Rice Chex cereal coated in a luscious blend of melted chocolate, peanut butter, and butter, then dusted with powdered sugar for a snowy finish. This quick and easy treat is perfect for holiday parties, gift-giving, or an indulgent snack any time of year.
Ingredients
Snack Mix
- 6 cups Rice Chex cereal
Chocolate Peanut Butter Coating
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Finishing
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Melt Chocolate Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave the mixture in 30-second increments, stirring well after each interval, until completely melted and smooth.
- Add Vanilla: Stir the vanilla extract thoroughly into the melted chocolate-peanut butter mixture to enhance the flavor.
- Coat Cereal: Pour the melted mixture over the Rice Chex cereal and gently fold with a spatula or spoon until all the cereal pieces are evenly coated.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Transfer the coated cereal into a large bowl or zip-top bag, then sprinkle with the powdered sugar. Toss or shake well to evenly coat the cereal with the sugar, giving it a festive, powdered appearance.
- Cool and Serve: Spread the snack mix out on wax paper or a baking sheet to cool and set. Once firm, store in an airtight container or serve immediately as a delightful treat.
Notes
- Use peanut butter smooth for the best coating consistency.
- Be careful not to overheat the chocolate mixture to avoid burning.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- For a festive touch, add red and green M&Ms or nuts.
- Can be made dairy-free by substituting butter with coconut oil and ensuring chocolate chips are vegan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Microwaving
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Reindeer Chow, Puppy Chow, Chex Mix, Holiday Snack, Peanut Butter, Chocolate, Sweet Snack Mix

