Christmas puppy chow is a loose, no-bake snack mix of crunchy Chex and mini pretzels coated in white chocolate, peanut butter, and a snowy layer of powdered sugar. Red and green candies and crushed peppermint give it color and extra crunch. The key is to fold the cereal gently so it stays intact, then wait until the coating cools before adding the holiday mix-ins. That keeps the candies distinct and the peppermint crisp.

Ingredients for Christmas Puppy Chow

• 8 cups Rice Chex cereal (240g); corn Chex works too
• 2 cups mini pretzel twists (90g)
• 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips (255g)
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (130g)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (55g)
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (180g), plus more as needed
• 1 cup red and green candy-coated chocolate pieces (200g)
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies (60g), broken into small shards
• Optional: 1/2 cup extra white chocolate chips or morsels, to add after cooling

Sunflower butter or almond butter can replace the peanut butter, though the flavor will change. Check all ingredient labels for individual dietary needs; a swap alone does not make the mix allergen-free.

How to Make Christmas Puppy Chow

1. Prepare the mix-ins: Put the Chex and pretzels in a very large mixing bowl with room to fold them gently. Measure the candies and crush the peppermint into small shards; set both aside.
2. Melt the coating: Combine the white chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave uncovered at medium power in 20- to 30-second intervals, stirring after each, for about 1 to 2 minutes total. Stop heating when the mixture is smooth and fluid; stirring will melt any last small pieces without scorching the chocolate.
3. Coat the cereal and pretzels: Pour the melted mixture over them. Fold gently with a broad spatula until the pieces are coated, rather than stirring vigorously and breaking the Chex.
4. Add the powdered sugar: Sprinkle it over the mix and toss gently until the sticky surfaces look powdery instead of glossy. Add a little more sugar if needed. If the bowl is crowded, work in batches or use a sturdy freezer-safe bag with enough room to move the pieces; a thin or overfilled bag can split.
5. Cool and add the holiday mix-ins: Let the coated mix cool until it is no longer warm, about 5 to 10 minutes. Fold in the red and green candies and crushed peppermint. Add the optional extra white chocolate morsels now, if using, so they do not melt.
6. Let it set: Leave the mix uncovered for another 5 to 10 minutes, until the pieces feel dry rather than tacky. Serve or transfer to an airtight container.

How to Store Christmas Puppy Chow

Store the set mix in an airtight container at room temperature. Its texture and appearance are best during the first 1 to 2 days, though it can be kept for up to one week; the peppermint may soften and the powdered coating may fade. Avoid refrigerating it, since moisture can make the mix soggy. If needed, toss with a little more powdered sugar before serving.

Nutrition

Approximate nutrition per serving, based on 1/10 of the batch (about 1 cup): 570 calories, 8g protein, 25g fat, and 85g carbohydrates. Approximate nutrition per 100g: 470 calories, 7g protein, 20g fat, and 70g carbohydrates. Values vary with the ingredients used.