Peppermint Puppy Chow

Peppermint Puppy Chow, also known as Peppermint Muddy Buddies, Peppermint Chex Mix, or Peppermint Bark Muddy Buddies, is a festive and addictive holiday treat. It is a variation of the classic Muddy Buddies, but is made with Rice Chex cereal, white chocolate, peppermint bark or candy canes, and powdered sugar.

This is one easy no-bake Christmas treat perfect to give away to friends and family. Did I mention how easy it is? It is the Christmas verison of the popular muddy buddies.

The addition of peppermint in this version gives it a delightful holiday twist, making it a popular treat during the Christmas season. The combination of sweet, crunchy, and pepperminty goodness—a perfect treat to enjoy during the holiday season.

I shared my Toffee Pretzel Christmas Crack a few weeks ago and it has been so popular! We love easy treats we can share with friends and family during the holiday season.

Ingredients:

This is such a simple 4-ingredient peppermint muddy buddies recipe. I will share ideas of what additions you can add to the peppermint puppy chow.

• Rice Chex Cereal — you can use popular Rice Chex cereal, Corn Chex or a mix of both.
• White Chocolate — I suggest using high-quality white chocolate bars, or white chocolate melting wafers. I prefer to use Ghirardelli white chocolate melting wafers.
• Peppermint Candy Canes or Peppermint Crunch Baking Chips — I used a mix of crushed candy canes and Andes peppermint crunch baking chips. I found peppermint baking chips at Target.
• Powdered Sugar — this is what you use to coat the peppermint chex mix so it is no longer sticky.

See below for ideas on what you can add to make it extra special.

Variations and Substitutions:

Here are some ways to add variation to this white chocolate peppermint puppy chow recipe.

Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor of the melted white chocolate mixture. This will add a delightful depth to the overall taste of your peppermint puppy chow.

You can use crushed candy canes, Andes peppermint crunch baking chips, or chopped peppermint bark. If you are looking to make homemade peppermint bark, check out my PEPPERMINT BARK RECIPE.

For a salty sweet mix, add some mini pretzels or nuts.

How to make Peppermint Bark Muddy Buddies:

Melt the White Chocolate: Place the white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals at 50% reduced power, stirring each time until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. Be careful not to overheat, as white chocolate can burn easily.

Coat the Cereal: Place the Rice Chex in a bowl. Pour the melted white chocolate mixture over the Rice cereal, making sure to coat them evenly. Gently fold the mixture until all the cereal is well coated. Let cool for several minutes before adding the candy canes or peppermint bark or it will melt if it is too hot. Fold in crushed candy canes or peppermint bark chips.

Add Powdered Sugar: Pour the warm mixture into a large Ziploc gallon-sized bag or sealable container. Add the powdered sugar. Seal the bag or container and shake until all the cereal is coated with the powdered sugar. This will create a sweet and powdery coating that gives the puppy chow its signature texture. Discard any extra powdered sugar.

(Optional) Let it Set: Spread the peppermint puppy chow onto a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool and set. Allow it to sit for 30 minutes, or until the white chocolate hardens. Store at room temperature up to 1 week or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks

• Choose Quality White Chocolate: Opt for high-quality white chocolate for the best flavor and texture. Look for white chocolate bars with a higher cocoa butter content or use white chocolate melting wafers, as this will result in a creamier and smoother melt.
• Avoid Overheating: Take care not to overheat the white chocolate, as it can lead to a gritty or burnt taste. Use short intervals in the microwave and stir well between each to ensure even melting.
• Package for Gifting: Peppermint puppy chow makes a delicious, sweet, and festive homemade gift during the holidays. Package it in festive containers or treat bags, and tie them with a ribbon for a beautiful presentation.

I hope you love this easy white chocolate peppermint puppy chow recipe! You can find all of my Christmas Cookie Recipes in one place — 80 CHRISTMAS COOKIE RECIPES

Christmas Treat Recipes:

Toffee Pretzel Christmas Crack

Rocky Road Candy Clusters

Oreo Balls

Homemade Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups