Caramel Apple Puppy Chow

This Caramel Apple Puppy Chow (also known as muddy buddies) is a crunchy, sweet snack mix that captures the flavors of caramel apples in an easy, no-bake treat. Perfect for fall parties, Halloween gatherings, or even holiday gifts, this snack comes together in just minutes with simple pantry ingredients. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as addictive as it is festive.

Why You’ll Love This Snack Mix

• No bake: Perfect for quick prep.
• Seasonal flavors: Caramel and apple for a fall vibe.
• Great for sharing: Makes a large batch for parties or gifts.
• Kid-approved: Fun for kids to help prepare.

Ingredients

• 9 cups Rice Chex cereal
• 1 cup caramel baking bits
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 cup dried apple chips (roughly chopped)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prep Mix: Place Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
2. Melt Caramel: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt caramel bits and butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. Coat Cereal: Pour the caramel mixture over the cereal and gently toss until evenly coated.
4. Add Chocolate: Melt white chocolate chips in a separate bowl, then drizzle over the caramel-coated cereal. Toss lightly.
5. Powder Sugar Shake: In a large resealable bag, combine powdered sugar and cinnamon. Add the coated cereal mix and shake until well covered.
6. Mix in Apples: Add chopped dried apple chips and toss gently to combine.
7. Cool & Serve: Spread on a baking sheet to cool completely before serving or packaging.

Tips & Variations

• Extra flavor: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce once cooled.
• Nutty twist: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• Gift idea: Package in small cellophane bags tied with ribbon for holiday favors.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Caramel Apple Puppy Chow in a large bowl at a Halloween party or add to a dessert charcuterie board with chocolate truffles and spiced nuts for a seasonal touch.

Caramel Apple Puppy Chow

Crunchy caramel-coated Chex mix tossed with powdered sugar, dried apples, and cinnamon for the perfect fall snack or party treat.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 12 cups

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Fall

Calories: 280

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Snack Mix

• 9 cups Rice Chex cereal
• 1 cup caramel baking bits
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 cup dried apple chips roughly chopped
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Microwave-safe bowls
• Resealable bags
• Baking sheet

Method

 

1. Place Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl.
2. Melt caramel bits and butter in 30-second microwave intervals, stirring until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. Pour caramel mixture over cereal and toss to coat.
4. Melt white chocolate chips and drizzle over cereal. Toss lightly.
5. Combine powdered sugar and cinnamon in a resealable bag, add coated cereal, and shake to cover.
6. Add chopped dried apple chips and toss gently.
7. Spread mix on a baking sheet to cool completely before serving.

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to a week. For extra caramel flavor, drizzle additional caramel sauce after cooling.

Nutritional Info (Approx. per 1 cup serving)

• Calories: 280
• Carbs: 45g
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 150mg