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Cozy Homemade Reindeer Chow Christmas Mix Recipe

reindeer chow christmas mix - featured image

This cozy homemade reindeer chow Christmas mix is a nostalgic, sweet, and utterly satisfying snack made with crunchy cereal, creamy chocolate-peanut butter coating, and a snowy blanket of powdered sugar. Perfect for holiday parties, gifting, or cozying up on the couch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 9 cups Rice Chex cereal
  • 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
  • ½ cup creamy peanut butter
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
  • Pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions

  1. Measure the cereal: Pour 9 cups of Rice Chex into your extra-large mixing bowl. Set aside. Make sure the bowl is completely dry.
  2. Melt the chocolate mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup chocolate chips, ½ cup peanut butter, and ¼ cup unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each, until smooth and glossy (about 1 ½ to 2 minutes total). Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and a pinch of salt if using.
  3. Pour and fold: Immediately pour the warm chocolate mixture over the cereal. Use a rubber spatula to gently fold everything together, coating every piece. Do not stir too aggressively to avoid crushing the cereal.
  4. First cool down: Let the coated cereal sit for about 2 minutes. This allows the coating to firm up slightly before adding powdered sugar.
  5. Add the powdered sugar: Transfer the coated cereal to a large resealable plastic bag or paper grocery bag. Pour in 1 ½ cups powdered sugar. Seal the bag tightly, leaving a little air inside.
  6. Shake it up: Shake the bag vigorously for about 1 minute until every piece is evenly coated in powdered sugar.
  7. Spread to set: Pour the reindeer chow onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread into an even layer. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to fully set.
  8. Break apart and serve: Once set, break up any large clumps with your hands. If adding M&Ms or sprinkles, toss them in gently.

Notes

For best results, use processed peanut butter (not natural) to ensure proper emulsification. Let the coated cereal rest for 2 minutes before adding powdered sugar to prevent a sticky mess. Shake the bag vigorously for even coating. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Do not refrigerate. To re-crisp, spread on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F for 5 minutes, then cool completely.

Nutrition

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