Candy Cane Peppermint Puppy Chow Recipe

Candy Cane Peppermint Puppy Chow is a festive twist on the classic snack mix, combining crunchy cereal, white chocolate, crushed candy canes, and peppermint flavor. Perfect for holiday parties, edible gifts, or cozy movie nights, this sweet and minty treat is easy to make and irresistibly delicious.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Rice Chex cerealwhite chocolate chipscrushed candy canespowdered sugarpeppermint extractvegetable oil (or coconut oil for extra flavor)

directions

Place the Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl and set aside.

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and a small amount of vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.

Stir in the peppermint extract into the melted chocolate.

Pour the peppermint chocolate mixture over the cereal and gently fold until all pieces are evenly coated.

Add the crushed candy canes and mix to distribute evenly.

Place the powdered sugar into a large zip-top bag. Add the coated cereal and shake vigorously until all pieces are well covered.

Spread the mixture out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and allow it to cool and set completely.

Transfer to a serving bowl or store in an airtight container.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 10 cups of puppy chow.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooling time: 15-20 minutesTotal time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Add mini chocolate chips or crushed Oreos for extra indulgence.

Swap white chocolate for milk or dark chocolate for a richer flavor.

Mix in festive sprinkles before the coating sets for a more decorative touch.

Use peppermint bark instead of plain white chocolate for an extra boost of flavor.

storage/reheating

Store Candy Cane Peppermint Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. Freezing is not recommended as it may affect texture.Reheat gently if needed by bringing to room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different cereal?

Yes, any square or puffed cereal like Corn Chex or Crispix will work.

Is this safe for dogs?

No, despite the name, this is not safe for pets. It’s a human treat only.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it stores well and can be made a few days in advance.

Can I skip the peppermint extract?

Yes, but it won’t have the signature peppermint flavor. You can substitute with vanilla if preferred.

Why did my puppy chow turn soggy?

Make sure the cereal is fully coated but not over-saturated, and let it cool completely before storing.

Can I color the white chocolate?

Yes, you can add red food coloring to give it a pink or red festive look.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free white chocolate and ensure your cereal is dairy-free as well.

What’s the best way to crush candy canes?

Place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin or use a food processor.

Can I use peppermint candies instead?

Yes, they work similarly to candy canes when crushed.

Is this gluten-free?

If you use certified gluten-free cereal and ingredients, then yes, it can be made gluten-free.

Conclusion

Candy Cane Peppermint Puppy Chow is the ultimate holiday snack—crunchy, sweet, minty, and completely addictive. Whether you’re gifting it, snacking on it by the fire, or serving it at a festive gathering, this cheerful treat is sure to spread holiday joy.

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