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Easy 4th of July Puppy Chow Snack Mix Recipe Perfect No-Bake Patriotic Treat

4th of July Puppy Chow snack mix - featured image

A quick and easy no-bake snack mix perfect for 4th of July celebrations, combining crispy cereal, chocolate, peanut butter, and festive red, white, and blue candies.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 9 cups (225g) crispy rice cereal (plain, unsweetened, e.g., Rice Chex)
  • 1 cup (170g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup (125g) smooth peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups (180g) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (150g) red, white, and blue M&Ms or candy-coated chocolates
  • 1/4 cup patriotic sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pour 9 cups (225g) of crispy rice cereal into a large mixing bowl and set aside.
  2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup (170g) semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1/2 cup (125g) smooth peanut butter, and 1/4 cup (57g) softened unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each, until smooth and fully melted (about 1-2 minutes).
  3. Stir 1 teaspoon vanilla extract into the melted mixture for extra flavor.
  4. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal. Using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the chocolate into the cereal until every piece is fully coated (3-4 minutes).
  5. Transfer the coated cereal into a large zip-top plastic bag. Add 1 1/2 cups (180g) powdered sugar. Seal the bag tightly and shake vigorously until all the cereal is evenly coated (2-3 minutes).
  6. Pour the powdered sugar-coated cereal back into the mixing bowl. Gently fold in 1 cup (150g) red, white, and blue M&Ms and optional 1/4 cup sprinkles, being careful not to crush the candies (2 minutes).
  7. Spread the snack mix out on a baking sheet or large tray to cool and set for about 15 minutes to dry out and prevent clumping.
  8. Transfer to serving bowls or an airtight container.

Notes

Do not overheat the chocolate to avoid seizing or burning. Use room temperature butter and peanut butter for better mixing. Fold gently to avoid crushing cereal. Shake powdered sugar well in a sealed bag to avoid mess. Add M&Ms and sprinkles after coating with powdered sugar to keep colors vibrant. If chocolate is sticky, chill in fridge for 10-15 minutes and bring back to room temperature before serving. Store airtight at room temperature for up to 5 days; refrigeration may cause stickiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: 4th of July, Puppy Chow, snack mix, no-bake, patriotic treat, easy snack, chocolate, peanut butter, M&Ms