Irresistible Reindeer Chow: Your Ultimate Guide to a Festive No-Bake Holiday Treat

There’s nothing quite like the magic of homemade holiday treats, and this Reindeer Chow recipe is designed to bring smiles and festive cheer to everyone who tastes it. It’s a delightful, homemade spin on the beloved Muddy Buddy (or Puppy Chow, as some call it) concept, elevated with extra mix-ins to make it perfectly seasonal. This irresistible snack is wonderfully simple to prepare, requiring no baking, and delivers a fantastic balance of sweet and salty flavors that make it truly addictive.

For many, Muddy Buddies evoke a sense of nostalgic comfort. I’ve always loved them; they’re one of those treats I could enjoy endlessly, any time of year. However, don’t settle for just any recipe! Over the years, I’ve perfected a version that truly stands out, making it extra delicious and ensuring every bite is a joy. This particular Reindeer Chow recipe takes my favorite muddy buddy base and amps it up with a selection of fun, festive mix-ins.

My secret to making this holiday snack truly exceptional lies in the perfect blend of sweet and salty. I’ve incorporated crunchy pretzels for that satisfying savory contrast, vibrant red and green M&M’s for a pop of color and extra chocolatey sweetness, and, of course, mini peanut butter cups. Because, let’s be honest, you can never have enough chocolate and peanut butter, especially during the holidays!

Why This Reindeer Chow Recipe Will Be Your Holiday Favorite

There are countless reasons why this festive snack quickly becomes a holiday tradition. Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore making and sharing Reindeer Chow:

• Effortlessly Simple Ingredients – Forget specialty stores or obscure items. You only need a handful of common ingredients readily available at any local grocery store. This flexibility also means you can easily adapt the recipe based on what you already have in your pantry, making it incredibly convenient.
• Incredibly Fun & Festive – The combination of sweet and salty is always a winning flavor profile, but what truly makes this Reindeer Chow special are the vibrant red and green M&M’s. These festive colors instantly make the treat pop, creating a visually appealing snack that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. It’s a treat that screams “holidays!”
• Remarkably Easy to Make – With a preparation time of just around 10 minutes, this recipe is a lifesaver during the busy holiday season. It’s the perfect easy treat you can whip up in minutes, impressing everyone with minimal effort. You’ll look like a culinary star without spending hours in the kitchen. This no-bake wonder is perfect for impromptu gatherings or last-minute holiday cravings.
• Perfect for Gifting – Not only is Reindeer Chow a delicious treat for your own home, but its festive appearance and irresistible taste make it an ideal homemade gift. Package it in pretty bags or jars, and you have thoughtful presents for neighbors, teachers, or friends.
• Kid-Friendly Fun – This recipe is simple enough that even younger helpers can get involved in the kitchen. From measuring ingredients to shaking the Ziploc bag, it’s a fantastic activity for creating lasting holiday memories with family.

Essential Ingredients for Your Reindeer Chow

Be sure to scroll to the bottom of the post for the FULL PRINTABLE recipe card with exact measurements.

• Chex Cereal – This is the foundation of our Muddy Buddies. The crispy, ridged texture of Chex cereal is perfect for holding onto the chocolate and peanut butter coating, creating that signature crunchy bite. You can use any variety you like; I personally find Corn or Rice Chex work best for their mild flavor and excellent crunch.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – The backbone of our rich coating. Semi-sweet chocolate provides a balanced sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the peanut butter. You can also use milk chocolate for a sweeter profile or dark chocolate for a more intense flavor. Ensure they are good quality chips for best melting.
• Creamy Peanut Butter – Essential for the classic Muddy Buddy flavor. You absolutely want to use creamy peanut butter for this recipe, as its smooth consistency blends seamlessly into the chocolate mixture, creating a velvety coating. Avoid natural peanut butter varieties that separate easily, as they can make the mixture oily or difficult to coat evenly.
• Butter – A small amount of butter helps to smooth out the chocolate and peanut butter mixture, giving it a luxurious consistency and making it easier to coat the cereal. It also adds a touch of richness to the flavor.
• Vanilla Extract – A splash of vanilla extract enhances all the sweet flavors, adding depth and warmth to the chocolate and peanut butter coating. Don’t skip this!
• Powdered Sugar – This fine sugar is what gives Reindeer Chow its iconic “muddy” or “snow-dusted” appearance and sweet finish. It adheres beautifully to the coated cereal, creating that delightful powdery layer.
• Pretzel Pieces – For the perfect sweet and salty contrast. Breaking pretzels into smaller pieces ensures that every bite gets a delightful crunch and savory kick, balancing the sweetness of the other ingredients.
• Mini Peanut Butter Cups – An extra dose of chocolate and peanut butter goodness! These add a chewy texture and intense flavor bursts, making the Reindeer Chow even more indulgent.
• Red & Green M&M’s – These are your festive color bombs! The classic red and green M&M’s instantly transform this treat into a holiday masterpiece, adding vibrant color, extra sweetness, and a satisfying candy shell crunch.

Equipment You’ll Need

You’ll be delighted to know that this recipe requires minimal equipment, most of which you likely already have in your kitchen:

• Microwave-Safe Bowl: For melting the chocolate, peanut butter, and butter.
• Large Mixing Bowl: To combine the melted coating with the Chex cereal.
• Rubber Spatula: Ideal for stirring and gently folding the ingredients.
• Large Ziploc Bag (Gallon-sized): The easiest way to evenly coat the cereal with powdered sugar. Alternatively, you can use a large airtight container with a lid.
• Baking Sheet: To spread out the Reindeer Chow for cooling and setting. Lining it with parchment paper is highly recommended for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Festive Reindeer Chow

Making this holiday treat is incredibly straightforward. Just follow these simple steps for perfect results every time:

• Melt the Coating – In a microwave-safe bowl, combine your semi-sweet chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, and cubed butter. Heat this mixture in the microwave for an initial 45 seconds. After this, stir it well until it begins to melt. Continue heating in short 15-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each, until the mixture is completely melted and beautifully smooth. Make sure there are no lumps of chocolate remaining. Once smooth, stir in the vanilla extract, which adds a lovely depth of flavor.
• Coat the Cereal – Gently pour your melted chocolate and peanut butter mixture over the Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl. Using a rubber spatula, carefully fold and mix until every single piece of cereal is evenly coated. Be gentle to avoid crushing the cereal. This step ensures that each bite of your Reindeer Chow is packed with flavor.
• Toss with Powdered Sugar – Now for the “muddy” part! Transfer the chocolate-coated cereal into a large gallon-sized ziplock plastic bag. Add the powdered sugar to the bag. Seal the bag securely, ensuring there’s some air trapped inside to allow for good movement. Then, gently toss and shake the bag around until all the cereal pieces are thoroughly and evenly coated with the powdered sugar. This creates that iconic snowy look and adds extra sweetness.
• Cool and Set – Once coated, spread the mixture out evenly onto a baking sheet. It’s best to line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Allow the Reindeer Chow to sit and cool for at least 20-30 minutes, or until the chocolate coating has completely set and hardened. This prevents the mix-ins from clumping or getting messy when added.
• Add Your Festive Mix-Ins – After the Reindeer Chow has set, transfer it back to a large bowl (or keep it on the baking sheet if it’s large enough). Now, sprinkle in your broken pretzel pieces, mini peanut butter cups, and the vibrant red and green M&M’s. Gently mix everything together until all the festive additions are well combined throughout the cereal mixture.
• Serve and Enjoy! – Your homemade Reindeer Chow is now ready to be served and enjoyed! It’s perfect for holiday parties, family movie nights, or as a delightful snack throughout the season.

Storing Your Festive Reindeer Chow for Freshness

One of the best things about Reindeer Chow is how well it stores, meaning you can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the holiday season. Proper storage ensures it stays fresh and delicious.

Store your Reindeer Chow (or puppy chow) in an airtight container at room temperature. Kept this way, it will remain fresh and crunchy for up to a week. For best results, keep it away from direct sunlight or heat, as this can cause the chocolate to melt or become sticky.

You can also freeze reindeer chow to extend its shelf life significantly. Place it in a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag, ensuring as much air as possible is removed. It can be stored in the freezer for 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply remove it from the freezer and let it come to room temperature on the counter for about 15-30 minutes before serving. There’s no need to thaw it in the fridge; it thaws quickly and maintains its delightful texture.

Expert Tips for the Best Reindeer Chow Every Time

While Reindeer Chow is an incredibly forgiving recipe, these tips will help you achieve perfection and allow for creative customization:

• Cereal Flexibility – Don’t feel limited to just Corn or Rice Chex. You can use any variety of Chex cereal you prefer. Life Cereal or Crispix also work wonderfully, offering a slightly different texture but still absorbing the coating beautifully. Feel free to mix and match different Chex varieties for added texture.
• Get Creative with Candy – This recipe is fantastic for adapting to any holiday! Instead of red and green M&M’s, consider using Reese’s Pieces for a fall-themed “Pumpkin Patch Chow,” pastel M&M’s for Easter, or even blue and white M&M’s for a winter wonderland theme. Seasonal sprinkles can also add extra flair.
• Chocolate Choices – I typically use semi-sweet chocolate chips because they’re a pantry staple for me, offering a balanced sweetness. However, if you have a bar of baking chocolate, milk chocolate, or even dark chocolate, you can certainly use it. Just make sure to chop it into small, uniform pieces (about the size of chocolate chips) to ensure even melting in the microwave.
• Innovative Mix-Ins – The possibilities are endless when it comes to mix-ins! While pretzels are excellent for that sweet and salty dynamic, consider adding other elements like chopped nuts (peanuts, pecans, almonds), dried cranberries or cherries for a chewy tartness, mini marshmallows, or even white chocolate chips. A drizzle of melted white chocolate over the finished chow once it has set can also add an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.
• Preventing Sticking – To ensure your Reindeer Chow doesn’t stick to your baking sheet while setting, always line it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This also makes cleanup incredibly easy.
• Even Powdered Sugar Coating – When shaking the cereal with powdered sugar in the bag, make sure there’s enough air inside the bag to allow the cereal pieces to tumble freely. This helps create an even, fluffy coating. If you don’t have a large Ziploc, a large bowl with a tight-fitting lid works just as well.

Share the Joy: Reindeer Chow as a Thoughtful Gift

Homemade gifts carry a special warmth, and this Reindeer Chow is no exception. Its festive colors and delicious taste make it a perfect present for friends, neighbors, teachers, or even as a hostess gift during holiday gatherings.

To prepare it for gifting, simply fill decorative mason jars, clear cellophane bags, or small holiday tins with the Reindeer Chow. Tie them with a pretty ribbon, add a handwritten tag with a thoughtful message, and perhaps include a small sprig of holly or a candy cane for extra flair. It’s a personal touch that shows you care and provides a tasty treat that everyone will appreciate during the festive season. Plus, since it stores so well, the recipient can enjoy it over several days!

Frequently Asked Questions About Reindeer Chow

• Can I make Reindeer Chow ahead of time? Absolutely! This treat is fantastic for making in advance. Due to its excellent shelf life when stored properly in an airtight container, you can prepare it a few days before your event, freeing up precious time during the busy holiday season.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? If you use Rice Chex or Corn Chex cereal, and ensure all your other ingredients (like M&M’s) are certified gluten-free, then yes, this recipe can be easily made gluten-free! Always check ingredient labels to be certain.
• Can I use a different type of nut butter? While creamy peanut butter is traditional and highly recommended for its flavor and consistency, you could experiment with other creamy nut butters like almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor profile. Just be aware that the taste will change significantly.
• Why is my Reindeer Chow soggy or clumpy? This usually happens if the chocolate mixture is too hot when added to the cereal, or if the powdered sugar isn’t added quickly after coating. It’s also crucial to let the chocolate coating set completely before adding mix-ins to prevent them from becoming sticky.
• Can I omit the pretzels or M&M’s? Yes, you can customize this recipe to your liking! If you’re not a fan of pretzels or prefer a less sweet version, you can certainly leave them out or substitute them with other mix-ins. The beauty of Reindeer Chow is its versatility.

More Fun Christmas Treats to Enjoy

• Grinch Truffles
• Sugar Cookie Fudge
• Chocolate Chip Shortbread
• Santa Hat Brownies
• Hot Chocolate Muddy Buddies
• Grinch Hot Chocolate
• Mint Chocolate Pudding Cookies

Reindeer Chow

By
Erin Sellin

This Reindeer Chow is a homemade Muddy Buddy recipe tossed with some extras to make it fun and festive for the holidays!

Prep:
20 minutes mins

Additional Time:
30 minutes mins

Total:
50 minutes mins

Servings:
16

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Ingredients

• 5 cups Chex Cereal
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 3 Tablespoons butter, cubed
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 cups broken pretzel pieces
• 1 cup mini peanut butter cups
• 1 cup red and green M&M’s

Instructions

1. In a microwave safe bowl add the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter cubes. Heat for 45 seconds in the microwave. Stir and heat for 15 second intervals until it is completely melted. Stir in the vanilla extract.
2. Pour the chocolate mixture over the Chex cereal, and mix until everything is well coated.
3. Add the cereal mixture and powdered sugar to a gallon sized plastic bag. Seal the bag and toss until the pieces are all coated. Pour onto a baking sheet.
4. Let the cereal mixture set up for about 20 minutes for the chocolate to harden.
5. Sprinkle the peanut butter cups, M&M’s and pretzel pieces over the top and mix to combine.
6. Serve or store in an airtight container.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g |
Calories: 347kcal |
Carbohydrates: 46g |
Protein: 6g |
Fat: 17g |
Saturated Fat: 7g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g |
Cholesterol: 8mg |
Sodium: 217mg |
Fiber: 3g |
Sugar: 32g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Author:
Erin Sellin

Prep Time:
20 minutes minutes

Additional Time:
30 minutes minutes

Total Time:
50 minutes minutes

Course:
Dessert Recipes

Cuisine:
American

Servings:
16

Calories:
347

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