Save A delightful twist on classic puppy chow, this festive version is infused with warm chai spices and a touch of pumpkin, perfect for holiday snacking.
I first whipped up this Thanksgiving Chai-Spiced Puppy Chow for my family holiday party. The warm spices and pumpkin made it a surprise hit that was gone in minutes.
Ingredients
- Base: 6 cups rice cereal squares (such as Chex)
- Chai-Spiced Chocolate Coating: 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Chai Spice Blend: 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom, 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Coating: 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare Cereal:
- In a large bowl, measure out the rice cereal and set aside.
- Melt Chocolate:
- In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, butter, and pumpkin puree. Microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth (about 1–2 minutes).
- Add Spices:
- Stir in vanilla extract and all chai spices until well combined.
- Coat Cereal:
- Pour the chocolate mixture over the cereal. Gently fold with a spatula until all cereal is evenly coated.
- Shake with Sugar:
- Transfer the coated cereal into a large zip top bag. Add powdered sugar, seal the bag, and shake vigorously until the cereal is completely coated and no longer sticky.
- Cool and Serve:
- Spread the puppy chow on a baking sheet to cool and dry for 10 minutes before serving.
Save Even my little cousins loved helping shake the bag and sneaking bites before everyone was served. It quickly became a new Thanksgiving tradition for us.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, microwave-safe bowl, spatula, large zip top bag, baking sheet
Allergen Information
Contains peanuts (or tree nuts if using almond butter), dairy, and soy (from chocolate chips). Check all labels for gluten if using gluten-free cereal. Not suitable for those with nut or dairy allergies.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 330, Total Fat: 15 g, Carbohydrates: 46 g, Protein: 5 g (per serving)
Save This festive puppy chow makes the sweetest ending to any holiday meal or party. Enjoy with loved ones and a mug of tea for maximum coziness.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I achieve the perfect coating?
Fold the cereal gently in the chocolate mixture and shake it thoroughly in powdered sugar to ensure even coverage without crushing.
- → Can I substitute almond butter for peanut butter?
Yes, feel free to swap almond butter in place of peanut butter for a similar creamy consistency and nutty flavor.
- → What other mix-ins work well?
Roasted pecans or walnuts add delicious crunch and flavor. You may also try dried cranberries for a fruity touch.
- → How should this treat be stored?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness and texture.
- → Is this dessert gluten-free?
Use gluten-free rice cereal squares and check all ingredient labels to ensure it meets gluten-free dietary needs.
- → What pairs well with this dish?
Serve with hot chai tea or coffee to complement the warming spices and sweet-crunchy texture.