Puppy Chow Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Puppy Chow Bars are a fun, no-bake twist on the classic snack mix you know and love. With crispy cereal coated in peanut butter and chocolate, then topped with a dusting of powdered sugar, these bars are chewy, crunchy, and perfectly sweet. They’re easy to make, kid-friendly, and great for parties, lunchboxes, or a quick sweet treat.

ingredients

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

crispy rice or corn cereal (like Chex)
semi-sweet chocolate chips
creamy peanut butter
unsalted butter
vanilla extract
powdered sugar

directions

Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.

Stir in the vanilla extract.

Pour the cereal into a large mixing bowl. Pour the chocolate mixture over the cereal and gently stir until all pieces are evenly coated.

Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press it down gently with a spatula.

Sprinkle powdered sugar evenly over the top, then lightly press it in so it sticks.

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until set.

Lift out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into squares.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 16 bars.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Add mini M&Ms for a pop of color.
Use Nutella instead of peanut butter for a chocolate-hazelnut version.
Sprinkle extra powdered sugar on top before serving for an extra sweet finish.
Add a layer of melted white chocolate for a double chocolate treat.

storage/reheating

Store Puppy Chow Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Why is it called Puppy Chow?
It’s named for its resemblance to dog food kibble—but it’s for humans only!

Can I make this nut-free?
Yes, substitute sunflower seed butter or cookie butter instead of peanut butter.

Can I use white chocolate?
Absolutely! Just swap the chocolate chips for white chocolate chips.

How do I keep the bars from falling apart?
Press the mixture firmly into the pan and chill until fully set before cutting.

Are these bars messy?
A little! The powdered sugar can get on your fingers—just like the original snack.

Conclusion

Puppy Chow Bars are an easy, nostalgic treat that delivers all the chocolatey, peanut buttery crunch you love in a convenient, portable bar. Perfect for parties, bake sales, or anytime you need a quick sweet snack, these bars will disappear fast—so make a double batch!

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