This recipe takes the beloved puppy chow (or muddy buddies) concept and infuses it with the sweet and tangy essence of caramel apples. Perfect for fall gatherings, Halloween parties, or just a cozy night in, this snack mix is incredibly addictive and simple to prepare. No baking required!
Easy Caramel Apple Puppy Chow
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 1x
- Category: Low Carbs Meals
Description
A delightful and easy-to-make snack mix combining the classic flavors of caramel apples with the fun of puppy chow.
Ingredients
Scale
- Puppy Chow Base:
- 9 cups Chex cereal (rice, corn, or wheat)
- 1 cup caramel bits (or 14 oz bag of soft caramels, unwrapped)
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Apple Flavoring & Coating:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon apple pie spice (optional)
- 1/4 cup freeze-dried apple slices, crushed (or finely diced dried apples)
- Optional Toppings:
- Chopped peanuts or pecans
- Additional caramel drizzle
- Mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare Cereal: Measure Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl or a large resealable plastic bag. Set aside.
- Melt Caramel Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine caramel bits (or unwrapped caramels), butter, and milk. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until smooth and melted. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Combine Cereal and Caramel: Pour the melted caramel mixture over the cereal in the bowl, or into the resealable bag. Gently stir or shake until the cereal is evenly coated. If using a bag, seal it and shake gently until coated.
- Prepare Coating Mixture: In a separate medium bowl or another resealable plastic bag, combine powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, and apple pie spice (if using). Add the crushed freeze-dried apple slices.
- Coat Cereal: Add the caramel-coated cereal to the bowl or bag with the powdered sugar mixture. Seal the bag and shake vigorously until the cereal is completely coated. If using a bowl, stir well until coated.
- Cool and Serve: Spread the puppy chow onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or wax paper to cool completely. This helps prevent sticking. Once cool, transfer to an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to a week. Add optional toppings before serving.
