Irresistible S’mores Puppy Chow: Your Ultimate No-Bake Snack Mix Recipe
Get ready to indulge in the ultimate no-bake treat with our incredible S’mores Puppy Chow recipe! This delightful snack mix captures everything you adore about classic s’mores – the gooey marshmallows, rich chocolate, and crispy graham crackers – all in one convenient, easy-to-eat format. Whether you’re planning a lively party, a cozy movie night, or simply want to surprise your family with a special homemade snack, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. It’s simple to prepare, incredibly addictive, and perfect for sharing (or not!).
Everyone adores the nostalgic flavors of S’mores, and this recipe for S’mores Puppy Chow (also known as Muddy Buddies) perfectly delivers that iconic taste without the need for a campfire! Imagine the irresistible blend of chocolate and peanut butter-coated Chex cereal, generously mixed with miniature marshmallows, crunchy Golden Grahams, and delightful chunks of Hershey’s chocolate. This convenient puppy chow recipe allows you to enjoy all those beloved s’mores components in a fun, grab-and-go snack. Be sure to explore our wider collection of Best Puppy Chow Recipes for more creative snack ideas!
If you’ve already fallen in love with our classic traditional puppy chow recipe, this s’mores-inspired version is sure to become another family favorite. It takes the familiar concept and elevates it with those distinct s’mores flavors. Our family also has a soft spot for Puppy Chow Ice Cream, proving just how versatile and beloved this snack truly is!
Table of Contents
- Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
- Puppy Chow or Muddy Buddies? What Do You Call It?
- Essential Ingredients for S’mores Puppy Chow
- Variations and Substitutions: Get Creative!
- How to Make S’mores Puppy Chow: Step-by-Step
- Serving Suggestions for Your Puppy Chow
- Expert Tips for Perfect S’mores Puppy Chow
- Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh!
- Explore Other Delightful S’mores Recipes
- Try These Other Puppy Chow Recipe Variations
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
S’mores Puppy Chow isn’t just another snack mix; it’s a nostalgic journey in every bite, combining all the best elements of a classic campfire treat with the convenience of a no-bake recipe. Puppy Chow, at its heart, is a versatile snack that typically features crispy cereal coated in a rich mixture of melted chocolate and peanut butter, then generously dusted with powdered sugar. This S’mores version elevates that classic formula by integrating the quintessential elements of s’mores: the crunchy graham cracker flavor (thanks to Golden Grahams), the chewy sweetness of mini marshmallows, and the unmistakable taste of Hershey’s chocolate bars. It’s truly a celebration of textures and flavors that are beloved by all ages.
What makes this recipe particularly special is its incredible ease and adaptability. You don’t need any special baking skills or equipment. It comes together quickly, making it an ideal last-minute treat for unexpected guests or a spontaneous craving. Furthermore, its sweet and savory balance, combined with varying textures, makes it an irresistibly addicting snack that tends to disappear quickly wherever it’s served. It’s perfect for holidays, game days, school events, or simply as a comforting snack to enjoy at home. Once you try it, you’ll understand why everyone loves this delightful mix!
Puppy Chow or Muddy Buddies? What Do You Call It?
It’s a common debate in the world of sweet treats: do you call this delightful cereal-based snack “Puppy Chow” or “Muddy Buddies”? The truth is, both names refer to essentially the same delicious mixture! “Puppy Chow” is a popular, informal name often used across various regions, likely due to its appearance resembling actual puppy kibble (though it’s absolutely not for pets!). On the other hand, “Muddy Buddies” is the official brand name used by General Mills for their Chex cereal-based snack, particularly for their pre-packaged mixes and some recipes.
Regardless of what you grew up calling it, or what you prefer to call it today, one thing remains universally true: this is one incredibly delicious and remarkably easy-to-make treat. Whether you’re whipping up a batch of S’mores Puppy Chow or S’mores Muddy Buddies, the outcome is always a crowd-pleasing, irresistible snack that disappears almost as fast as you can make it. So, let’s not get too hung up on the name and instead focus on enjoying every crunchy, sweet, and chocolatey bite!
Essential Ingredients for S’mores Puppy Chow
Creating this irresistible S’mores Puppy Chow is surprisingly simple, requiring just a handful of readily available ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering that authentic s’mores flavor profile and satisfying texture. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few helpful tips:
- Chex Cereal: This is the foundation of your puppy chow. Its crisp, airy texture holds up beautifully to the coating. You can use rice or corn Chex, depending on your preference. Both work wonderfully and provide that classic crunch.
- Creamy Peanut Butter: For the smoothest and most even coating, creamy peanut butter is highly recommended. It blends seamlessly with the melted chocolate, creating a rich, flavorful base. Avoid natural peanut butter that separates, as it can make the mixture oily.
- Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips are generally preferred as they provide a balanced sweetness that prevents the overall snack from becoming overly cloying. However, milk chocolate chips can be used if you prefer a sweeter, creamier chocolate flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract is always best for enhancing the flavors of the chocolate and peanut butter, adding a warm, aromatic depth to the mix. Don’t skip this!
- Mini Marshmallows: These are essential for the s’mores experience. Their small size integrates perfectly into the snack mix, offering soft, chewy pockets of sweetness without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Golden Grahams: This cereal is a game-changer! It brings the authentic taste and crunch of graham crackers directly into your puppy chow, making it truly reminiscent of s’mores. It’s a key ingredient for the s’mores flavor profile.
- Hershey Chocolate Bars: Cut into small, bite-sized pieces, these chocolate bar chunks provide a more substantial and melt-in-your-mouth chocolate element, mimicking the squares of chocolate found in traditional s’mores.
- Powdered Sugar: The classic coating for puppy chow, it gives that iconic “dusty” look and adds an extra layer of sweetness, preventing the pieces from sticking together.
- Vegetable Oil: A small amount helps to create a smoother, more fluid chocolate-peanut butter mixture, making it easier to coat the cereal evenly.
- One-Gallon Ziplock Bags: These are incredibly helpful for efficiently coating the cereal with powdered sugar. Using two bags ensures even distribution without overcrowding.
You can find the exact measurements and full recipe details by scrolling to the bottom of the page in the recipe card section.
Variations and Substitutions: Get Creative!
One of the best aspects of puppy chow recipes, including this S’mores version, is their incredible flexibility. You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have in your pantry, your personal preferences, or to suit a particular occasion. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe truly your own! Here are some of our favorite variations and substitutions to inspire your next batch:
- Toss in Mini Reese’s Cups: For a delightful peanut butter and chocolate explosion, add some miniature Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, either whole or chopped. They complement the existing flavors perfectly.
- Add More Chocolate Chips: If you’re a true chocolate lover, feel free to toss in an extra half cup of chocolate chips along with the other s’mores mix-ins. You can even use different types, like milk chocolate or dark chocolate, for varying intensity.
- M&M’s are Always a Fun Addition: For a pop of color and extra crunch, M&M’s candies are a fantastic choice. Opt for regular chocolate M&M’s or try holiday-themed colors for a festive touch.
- For an Extra Crunch Add in Pretzels: If you enjoy a salty-sweet combination, pretzel sticks or mini pretzels can be broken up and added to the mix. Their salty crunch provides a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of the s’mores components.
- Another Fun Idea to Add is Nuts: For added protein and a different texture, consider adding chopped peanuts, pecans, or almonds. Make sure they are roasted for best flavor.
- Try Puppy Chow Without Powdered Sugar: While powdered sugar is traditional, you can certainly make a version without it for a different experience. The chocolate and peanut butter coating will still be delicious, just less “dusty” and slightly less sweet.
- Instead of Golden Grahams, You Can Break Up Graham Crackers: If you can’t find Golden Grahams, or simply prefer using actual graham crackers, crush them into bite-sized pieces and mix them in. This offers an equally authentic graham cracker flavor.
- White Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra layer of indulgence and visual appeal, melt some white chocolate chips and drizzle them over the finished puppy chow before it sets completely.
- Cinnamon Sugar: If you love a hint of spice, a light dusting of cinnamon sugar can be added along with or in place of some of the powdered sugar.
How to Make S’mores Puppy Chow: Step-by-Step
Making S’mores Puppy Chow is incredibly straightforward and quick, making it a perfect activity for kids to help with! Follow these simple steps to create your delicious snack mix:
Step 1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Microwave on high for 30 seconds. This initial burst of heat will start the melting process.
Step 2. After 30 seconds, remove the bowl and stir the mixture well. Continue heating in 15-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each, until the chocolate and peanut butter are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy. For my microwave, this usually takes about 60 seconds total.
Step 3. Place your Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl. Once your chocolate-peanut butter mixture is melted and smooth, pour it immediately over the cereal. Use a rubber spatula to quickly and gently stir until all the cereal pieces are evenly coated. Work quickly before the chocolate sets!
Step 4. Grab two one-gallon ziplock bags. Pour half of the total powdered sugar into each bag. This method helps ensure every piece gets a good coating.
Step 5. Divide the chocolate-coated cereal evenly between the two ziplock bags. Seal each bag tightly, ensuring there’s enough air inside for shaking. Then, shake vigorously until all the cereal pieces are completely coated in powdered sugar. This ensures a nice, even layer on every piece. Repeat with the second bag of cereal.
Step 6. Pour the powdered sugar-coated mixture onto a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper or wax paper. Spread it out into a single layer to allow it to cool and dry completely. This prevents clumping and ensures a perfectly crisp texture. Let it cool for at least 20 minutes, or until the chocolate coating is set.
Step 7. Once the puppy chow has cooled and the coating is set, it’s time to add the signature s’mores ingredients! Sprinkle the Golden Grahams cereal evenly over the coated Chex mixture. These provide that essential graham cracker flavor and crunch that defines s’mores.
Step 8. Finally, add the mini marshmallows and the cut-up Hershey’s chocolate bar pieces over the top. Gently stir all the ingredients together with a spatula or your hands, ensuring the s’mores components are evenly distributed throughout the puppy chow. Your delicious S’mores Puppy Chow is now complete and ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Puppy Chow
S’mores Puppy Chow is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of fun and appealing ways. For a casual gathering or family snack, we love simply pouring it into a large decorative bowl, allowing everyone to easily grab handfuls. The vibrant mix of textures and colors makes it an inviting centerpiece on any snack table.
For more individualized portions, you can serve the puppy chow in cute cupcake liners or small paper cups – this is especially great for parties as it makes for easy cleanup and portion control. It’s also a fantastic addition to a dessert charcuterie board, adding a playful and crunchy element alongside fruits, cheeses, and other sweet treats. Consider packaging small bags of it as party favors or edible gifts for friends and teachers. No matter how you serve it, this S’mores Puppy Chow is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Expert Tips for Perfect S’mores Puppy Chow
While S’mores Puppy Chow is an incredibly easy recipe, a few expert tips can elevate your snack mix from good to absolutely perfect. Keep these in mind to ensure the best texture, flavor, and overall experience:
- Mixing the Ingredients for the Coating: For the best results and easiest coating, always melt your chocolate, peanut butter, oil, and vanilla in a separate microwave-safe bowl. Once it’s smooth and perfectly melted, then pour it over your Chex cereal in a large, sturdy mixing bowl. Using a rubber spatula helps to gently fold and coat the cereal without crushing it. Work quickly to ensure an even distribution before the chocolate begins to set.
- Achieving an Even Powdered Sugar Coating: The secret to perfectly coated puppy chow is the ziplock bag method! We’ve tried many different techniques, and this one consistently yields the best results. Divide your powdered sugar into two one-gallon ziplock bags, and then divide your chocolate-coated cereal between them. This prevents overcrowding and allows each piece of cereal to get a generous, even dusting of powdered sugar. Shake vigorously but gently until every piece is beautifully coated.
- Don’t Skimp on the Cool Time: Patience is a virtue, especially with puppy chow! After coating with powdered sugar, spread the mixture out on a baking sheet lined with parchment or wax paper. Allow it to cool completely for at least 20-30 minutes. This crucial step lets the chocolate coating fully set, preventing stickiness and ensuring a wonderfully crisp texture.
- Make a Large Batch – It Disappears Fast!: Puppy chow, in any variation, is notoriously addicting! No matter the occasion or holiday, we always find ourselves wishing we had made more. It’s highly recommended to double the recipe, especially if you’re serving a crowd or simply want enough to last more than a day. It’s truly one of those snacks that vanishes almost instantly!
- Prevent Sticking: If your chocolate-peanut butter mixture is too thick, it can be hard to coat the cereal without clumping. Ensure your mixture is smooth and fluid by heating it properly in 15-second intervals and stirring well. The vegetable oil helps significantly with this.
- Quality Ingredients Matter: While simple, using good quality chocolate chips and creamy peanut butter can make a noticeable difference in the final flavor. Pure vanilla extract also adds a depth of flavor that imitation vanilla often lacks.
Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh!
Proper storage is key to keeping your S’mores Puppy Chow fresh, crispy, and delicious for as long as possible. Once your puppy chow has completely cooled and the chocolate coating is set, transfer it to an airtight container. This helps protect it from moisture and keeps the cereal from becoming stale.
Stored at room temperature in an airtight container, S’mores Puppy Chow will remain fresh for up to a week. However, in our experience, it rarely lasts that long because it’s so incredibly popular and irresistible! If you want to extend its shelf life further, you can store it in the refrigerator. This will keep it fresh for up to two weeks, and some people even enjoy the slightly firmer texture that results from chilling. Just be sure the container is truly airtight to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge. While it’s perfectly fine left out for a day or two, refrigeration is your best bet for longer enjoyment of this beloved treat!
Explore Other Delightful S’mores Recipes
If you can’t get enough of that classic s’mores flavor, you’re in luck! There are countless ways to enjoy the combination of chocolate, marshmallow, and graham cracker. Once you’ve mastered this S’mores Puppy Chow, consider trying some of these other fantastic s’mores-inspired desserts:
- Easy S’mores Cake Recipe: A show-stopping cake that brings all the s’mores elements to a celebratory dessert.
- S’mores Cupcakes Recipe: Individual portions of s’mores goodness, perfect for parties or a delightful treat.
- S’mores Rice Krispie Treats: A chewy, crispy, and marshmallow-filled twist on a childhood favorite.
- S’Mores Campfire Cones: A fun, interactive, and less messy way to enjoy s’mores around the campfire.
- Golden Graham Smores Bar Recipe: These bars perfectly combine the flavors of Golden Grahams with gooey marshmallows and chocolate.
Try These Other Puppy Chow Recipe Variations
The versatility of puppy chow doesn’t stop at s’mores! This adaptable snack mix can be customized for any season, holiday, or craving. If you love the ease and deliciousness of puppy chow, you’ll want to explore these other fantastic variations that are just as simple to make:
- Valentines Day Puppy Chow Recipe: Featuring festive colors and delightful additions perfect for sharing the love.
- Brownie Puppy Chow Recipe: A rich, fudgy take on puppy chow, incorporating the decadent flavors of brownies.
- Christmas Puppy Chow Recipe: Get into the holiday spirit with seasonal colors and flavors in this festive mix.
- Classic Puppy Chow Recipe: The original, beloved chocolate and peanut butter coated cereal mix that started it all.
This easy no-bake dessert is truly a fabulous treat that will quickly become a family favorite. Give it a try, and don’t forget to come back and leave a comment sharing your experience!
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S’mores Puppy Chow
Ingredients
- 9 cups Chex Mix Cereal
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 one-gallon ziplock bags
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 4 cups Golden Grahams
- 3 Hershey Chocolate Bars Cut into pieces
Instructions
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In a microwave safe bowl, combine the the chocolate chips, peanut butter, vegetable oil and vanilla extract. Microwave on high for 30 second. Stir and cook in 15 second intervals until melted and smooth. (mine took about 60 seconds).
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Meanwhile, pour the chex mix cereal in a large bowl.
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Pour the melted peanut butter and chocolate mixture over the cereal and quickly stir to coat.
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In a one gallon ziplock bag, pour the ½ of the total amount of powdered sugar. Then pour ½ of the coated cereal into the other gallon bag. Seal close and shake to coat the cereal. Follow this process in the 2nd bag as well.
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Pour onto a cookie sheet and allow to cool.
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Once the puppy chow is coated with the powder sugar, sprinkle the golden grahams, mini marshmallows and Hershey pieces over the top and stir to combine all the ingredients together.
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Store in an airtight container for up to a week and Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
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