Save Reindeer Chow is my go-to holiday snack mix when I want to bring smiles to a cookie swap or package up something sweet and festive for friends. Packed with those all-time favorite flavors of chocolate and peanut butter, with the irresistible crunch of Chex and a splash of holiday color, it always vanishes fast from the snack table.
I first started making this for a school holiday party years ago and discovered it is now expected at every gathering. Even adults sneak handfuls when they think nobody is watching.
Ingredients
- Rice or corn Chex cereal: gives the classic airy crunch and holds the chocolate perfectly. Choose the freshest, crispiest cereal for best texture
- Semisweet chocolate chips: provide rich chocolate flavor that balances the sweetness. Select quality chips that melt smoothly
- Creamy peanut butter: coats every piece with just the right nutty richness. Use a brand that is pourable but not too oily for easy mixing
- Unsalted butter: helps the chocolate mixture pour smoothly and adds that hint of creaminess. Real butter is best for taste
- Pure vanilla extract: brings all the flavors together and adds depth. Go for pure extract over imitation for the fullest aroma
- Powdered sugar: creates that signature snowy look and keeps everything from sticking together. Ensure it is sifted and lump free
- M and M’s in holiday colors: add cheerful visuals plus chocolate crunch. Pick fresh, brightly colored candies from a bag with no cracks
- Mini pretzels (optional): round out the salty notes and make it extra munchable. Use fresh pretzels to avoid staleness
- Mini marshmallows (optional): give pillowy sweetness and a fluffy contrast. Choose soft white ones for classic charm
- Red and green sprinkles (optional): amp up the festive spirit and kid appeal. Look for nonpareils or jimmies in holiday hues
Instructions
- Prepare the Base:
- Pour the Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl. Make sure the bowl is oversized so you have plenty of space for stirring and coating without crushing the cereal
- Melt the Chocolate and Peanut Butter:
- Combine chocolate chips creamy peanut butter and butter in a microwave safe bowl. Microwave in bursts of about 30 seconds stirring in between until melted and silky smooth. Watch closely so it does not scorch
- Add Vanilla:
- Once the mixture is melted and smooth stir in the vanilla extract fully so the aroma and flavor are evenly distributed
- Coat the Cereal:
- Pour the warm chocolate peanut butter mixture over the Chex cereal in the large bowl. Gently fold with a wide spatula coating every piece evenly. Move slow to prevent crushing the cereal squares
- Sugar Coating Step:
- Transfer the coated cereal into a large zip-top plastic bag. Add the powdered sugar seal the bag well and shake to coat until all pieces are evenly dusted and separated
- Cool and Set:
- Spread the coated cereal on a parchment lined baking sheet in a single layer. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes. This helps the chocolate set and prevents sticking
- Add Festive Mix-ins:
- Once everything is cool gently stir in the M and M’s pretzels marshmallows and sprinkles. Toss gently so everything is distributed and looks colorful
- Storage:
- Store the snack mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This keeps it fresh and prevents sogginess
Save I absolutely love how the peanut butter mingles with the semisweet chocolate here. Kids in my family try to pick out all the M and Ms and marshmallows first but my dad always goes straight for the clusters where everything is stuck together.
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container out of direct sunlight. If you use mix ins like marshmallows or pretzels keep them as fresh as possible by adding them just before serving. Chill in the fridge for a firmer texture or if your kitchen is warm during the holidays but let it come back to room temperature before eating for the best bite.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are working around allergies try sunflower seed butter or almond butter instead of peanut butter and use gluten free pretzels and cereal as needed. White chocolate chips or milk chocolate give a different flavor profile. Have fun with the colors and themes for any season by swapping the candies and sprinkles.
Serving Suggestions
Pile in cupcake liners or small treat cups for an easy party display. Serve with mugs of hot cocoa at a holiday movie night or scoop into cellophane bags for classroom favors. Kids love helping with the shaking part so get them involved when making a big batch.
Cultural and Historical Context
Known by other names like puppy chow or muddy buddies this treat began as a homemade American snack in the Midwest. It has become a Christmas tradition at cookie swaps school events and as a homemade gift. The blend of chocolate peanut butter and cereal dates back to the mid twentieth century and its festive twist brings a modern holiday flair.
Seasonal Adaptations
Add pastel candies and pink sprinkles for spring or Easter. Change the colors to orange and purple for Halloween parties. Sprinkle with heart confetti for Valentines Day snack gifting.
Success Stories
I am always amazed how quickly a big tin of Reindeer Chow disappears at a party. Once I packaged it up with a handmade gift tag for a neighbor and found out the whole family polished it off before the evening was out. My preschooler once carried a small container of this in her backpack for the Christmas parade sharing it with friends along the way.
Freezer Meal Conversion
If you want to make this mix ahead of time simply let it cool and then pack it in a tightly sealed freezer bag. Lay flat in the freezer so it keeps its shape. When needed let it thaw at room temperature and the cereal should still be crunchy thanks to the coating.
Save This festive snack disappears fast and adds cheer to any party or gift. Make extra because everyone wants a handful and it keeps well all week!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use a different cereal base?
Yes, rice or corn Chex works best, but you can experiment with other crunchy cereals for variety.
- → How should I melt chocolate and peanut butter?
Microwave together in 30-second intervals, stirring until fully smooth and combined for an even texture.
- → Can I make it nut-free?
Absolutely—substitute with sunflower butter or another nut-free spread to accommodate allergies.
- → What's the best way to serve this snack?
Serve in bowls for gatherings, or package in festive bags for easy gifting during holidays.
- → How long does Reindeer Chow stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for up to a week—perfect for preparing in advance.
- → Can I add other mix-ins?
Yes, roasted nuts, dried fruit, or alternative chocolates can enhance flavor and crunch as desired.