Puppy Chow Bars Recipe

Introduction

Puppy Chow Bars are a delightful twist on the classic snack mix, combining crispy Rice Chex cereal with a rich, creamy chocolate and peanut butter coating. These bars are easy to make and perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a sweet treat anytime.

Ingredients

• 7 cups Rice Chex cereal (start with 5 cups and adjust as needed for consistency)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup (258 g) creamy peanut butter
• ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter, can use salted
• 1 bag (10 ounces) mini marshmallows
• ¼ cup (31 g) confectioners’ sugar

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place the Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is melted and smooth.
3. Step 3: Add the mini marshmallows to the chocolate mixture. Stir to coat, then microwave again in 30-second intervals until the marshmallows puff up and melt, creating a thick and creamy mixture.
4. Step 4: Pour the marshmallow mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Stir thoroughly to ensure all the cereal is generously coated.
5. Step 5: Transfer the coated cereal mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Press it firmly into the pan to form an even layer.
6. Step 6: Refrigerate the pan for 10-15 minutes to allow the bars to set.
7. Step 7: Once chilled, lightly dust the top with confectioners’ sugar. Cut into bars and serve.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, lightly toast the Rice Chex cereal before mixing.
• Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for white or milk chocolate for a different flavor.
• Add chopped nuts or sprinkles to the mixture for added texture and color.
• Use natural peanut butter for a slightly different taste and texture.
• If mixture seems too dry, add a little more melted butter or peanut butter to help with coating.

Storage

Store the Puppy Chow Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For best texture, bring to room temperature before serving. These bars also freeze well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter, but it may affect the smoothness of the coating slightly and add extra texture to the bars.

What can I substitute for mini marshmallows?

If mini marshmallows are not available, you can use regular marshmallows cut into smaller pieces. The melting process will be similar, but keep an eye to avoid burning.

Puppy Chow Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 95 reviews

Puppy Chow Bars are a delicious no-bake treat combining crispy Rice Chex cereal with a rich blend of melted chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and melted mini marshmallows. These bars are easy to make, perfect for snacking, parties, or dessert, and are finished with a light dusting of confectioners’ sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

• Author: Emma
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes (microwaving and melting time)
• Total Time: 25 minutes (including chilling)
• Yield: 16 bars (depending on cutting size) 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Dry Ingredients

• 7 cups Rice Chex cereal (start with 5 cups and check consistency)
• ¼ cup (31 g) confectioners’ sugar

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup (258 g) creamy peanut butter
• ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter (can use salted)
• 1 bag (10 ounces) mini marshmallows

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cereal: In a large mixing bowl, add the Rice Chex cereal and set aside to be coated later.
2. Melt the Chocolate Mixture: In a separate medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
3. Add and Melt Marshmallows: Add the mini marshmallows to the melted chocolate mixture and stir well to coat. Return the bowl to the microwave, heating again in 30-second intervals while stirring until the marshmallows puff and melt into a thick, creamy mixture.
4. Combine with Cereal: Pour the warm marshmallow mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece of cereal is generously coated with the chocolate-marshmallow mixture.
5. Press into Pan: Transfer the coated cereal mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Press it firmly and evenly into the pan using a spatula or your hands to create a compact, uniform layer.
6. Chill and Set: Place the baking pan in the refrigerator and chill for 10-15 minutes to allow the bars to set properly.
7. Add Finishing Touch: Once chilled and firm, lightly dust the top of the bars with confectioners’ sugar. Cut into squares and serve immediately or store for later enjoyment.

Notes

• Start with 5 cups of Rice Chex and add more if the coating mixture is very thin to ensure bars hold together.
• Press the mixture firmly into the pan to help the bars set tightly and avoid crumbling.
• Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and consistency.
• These bars can be customized by adding nuts or mini chocolate chips if desired.
• If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of confectioners’ sugar topping or omit it.

Keywords: Puppy Chow Bars, no-bake dessert, Rice Chex, peanut butter bars, chocolate marshmallow bars, easy dessert recipe, snack bars