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Harvest Puppy Chow | Sweet, Crunchy & Perfect for Fall

Puppy Chow (also called Muddy Buddies) is already one of the most beloved snack mixes out there. It’s crunchy, chocolatey, peanut-buttery, and dusted in powdered sugar for the ultimate sweet bite. But when autumn rolls around, why not give it a festive twist? Enter: Harvest Puppy Chow. This version takes the classic Puppy Chow and transforms it into a fall celebration by adding candy corn, candy pumpkins, pretzels, and M&Ms for festive colors and textures. The result is a sweet, salty, crunchy, and colorful snack mix that looks as good as it tastes. Perfect for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving gatherings, or cozy movie nights, this mix will quickly become a seasonal favorite. The best part? It’s no-bake, quick to make, and kid-friendly!
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Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Crunch:
  • 9 cups Chex cereal corn or rice
  • 2 cups pretzels
Chocolate-Peanut Butter Coating:
  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • ½ cup peanut butter
  • ¼ cup butter
  • 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
Festive Add-Ins:
  • 1 ½ cups candy corn and/or candy pumpkins
  • 1 cup M&Ms fall colors preferred

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Microwave-safe bowl (or double boiler)
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Large zip-top bag or container with lid
  • Baking sheet – lined with parchment paper

Method
 

Step 1: Prep Base
  1. Place Chex cereal and pretzels into a large mixing bowl.
  2. Set aside.
Step 2: Melt Chocolate Mixture
  1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter.
  2. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until melted and smooth.
  3. Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 3: Coat the Cereal
  1. Pour the chocolate mixture over cereal and pretzels.
  2. Stir gently until evenly coated.
Step 4: Shake with Powdered Sugar
  1. Transfer mixture into a large zip-top bag.
  2. Add powdered sugar, seal, and shake until all pieces are coated.
Step 5: Add Festive Candies
  1. Spread mixture onto parchment paper to cool for 10 minutes.
  2. Once set, fold in candy corn, candy pumpkins, and M&Ms.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
  1. Transfer to a serving bowl for parties or portion into treat bags.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Room Temperature: Store in airtight containers for up to 1 week.
Freezer: Freeze in zip-top bags for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
Tip: Avoid humid environments to keep Puppy Chow crisp.
🥄 Variations
Pumpkin Spice Puppy Chow: Stir 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice into the melted chocolate mixture.
Nut-Free Version: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
White Chocolate Twist: Swap chocolate chips for white chocolate chips.
Trail Mix Style: Add dried cranberries, pumpkin seeds, or granola.
Holiday Swap: Replace candy corn with red and green candies for Christmas.
❓ 10 FAQs
Why is it called Puppy Chow?
Because it looks similar to dog kibble—but it’s for humans only!
Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes, almond butter or sunflower butter works as a substitute.
Do I have to use Chex cereal?
Chex works best, but Crispix or similar cereals can be used.
How do I keep the coating from clumping?
Shake with powdered sugar while the mix is still slightly warm.
Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Yes, substitute peanut butter and double-check candy labels.
What if I don’t like candy corn?
Swap with gummy candies, Reese’s Pieces, or extra M&Ms.
Can I make this ahead for a party?
Definitely! It stays fresh for several days if stored properly.
How do I make it more colorful?
Use seasonal M&Ms, candy sprinkles, or colored candy melts.
Is this freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months.
Can kids help with this recipe?
Absolutely! Kids can help stir, shake the bag, and add candies.
🏁 Conclusion
This Harvest Puppy Chow is the ultimate fall snack mix. With its crunchy cereal base, rich chocolate-peanut butter coating, and festive additions like candy corn, pumpkins, and M&Ms, it’s both delicious and fun.
Perfect for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving gatherings, or cozy nights at home, this snack mix comes together in minutes and disappears just as quickly. Once you make it, it’ll become a yearly tradition in your home.