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.