Brownie batter puppy chow hero shot of the finished dish

Indulge in Brownie Batter Puppy Chow: A Sweet Snack Twist

The Memory Behind This Treat

I still remember the first snowy day I spent making brownie batter puppy chow with my kids. It was one of those lazy afternoons where the fireplace crackled, and the air smelled faintly of cinnamon and pine. The children, bundled up in mismatched socks and oversized sweaters, begged for something sweet. As luck would have it, I had a box of Rice Chex and some brownie mix in the pantry, just waiting for inspiration to strike.

As we gathered in the kitchen, I shared stories of my own childhood—that magical time when simple ingredients turned into unforgettable treats. The kids’ eyes widened as they watched chocolate chips and creamy peanut butter melt into a velvety mixture. The transformation of these humble beginnings into delicious decadence felt a bit like a magic trick. They giggled as they coated the cereal, shaking the bag with more enthusiasm than necessary, making sure every piece was perfectly dusted with that nostalgic brownie flavor.

That day, brownie batter puppy chow became our go-to treat for cozy family moments. It not only satisfied a craving for something sweet but also created wonderful memories of laughter and togetherness. Now, every time I pull out that dry brownie mix, I’m reminded of how food can be a bridge between generations, a delightful way to pass down traditions, and a delicious way to bring the family together.

How To Make It (Mix & Ingredients)

Creating this Brownie Batter Puppy Chow is as delightful as indulging in it. Start by assembling your ingredients: 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal, 2 cups of semisweet chocolate chips, ½ cup of creamy peanut butter, a pinch of coarse kosher salt, 1½ cups of dry brownie mix powder, and 4 cups of small pretzels. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this comes together, filling your kitchen with a luscious, chocolatey aroma.

Step-by-step preparation of Brownie batter puppy chow.

Begin by pouring the Rice Chex into a large mixing bowl, leaving enough space to stir without making a mess. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and peanut butter together, heating in 1-minute intervals. Stir in between to prevent the mixture from seizing. Once smooth, incorporate the pinch of salt for a touch of flavor depth. Drizzle this velvety mix over your cereal, and with a gentle hand, use a rubber spatula to fold until the cereal is evenly coated. This method ensures your cereal stays crunchy, not crushed.

Next, place the brownie mix in a large resealable bag. Add the chocolate-coated cereal, sealing the bag tightly. Now, channel your inner rockstar and shake the bag with enthusiasm until everything is well-coated. If you prefer, try the tupperware method: layer half the brownie mix on the bottom, add the cereal, sprinkle the rest on top, and shake gently. Once coated, let the mixture cool completely before tossing in the pretzels for that perfect salty-sweet balance. Enjoy this treat, and watch it disappear fast at any gathering!

Make-Ahead & Storage

Brownie batter puppy chow is one of those delightful treats that you can easily prepare in advance, making it perfect for parties, road trips, or just having on hand for a sweet craving. Once you’ve mastered the art of mixing the chocolate and peanut butter with the cereal and coating it in that delicious brownie mix powder, the next step is to store it properly to maintain its delightful crunch.

To keep your puppy chow fresh and irresistible, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This ensures the cereal stays crisp without getting soggy from moisture. If you’re preparing this sweet snack twist for a future get-together, it will stay fresh for up to a week. Just make sure to keep it away from any direct heat or sunlight, which could melt that luscious chocolate coating and ruin the texture.

If you find yourself with a surplus (a delightful problem to have!), you can also freeze your brownie batter puppy chow. Simply pop it into a freezer-safe bag or container, and it will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to regain its delightful crunch. Trust me, once you see how easy it is to store, this will become a go-to treat for all your snacking needs!

Also Read: Pumpkin Cheesecake Swirl Brownies: Fall’s Best Flavor Fusion

Best Ingredients & Party Variations

When whipping up this Brownie Batter Puppy Chow, using top-notch ingredients is key to achieving that irresistible flavor. Start with Rice Chex cereal—its light texture perfectly balances the rich chocolate coating. Opt for semisweet or bittersweet chocolate chips to create a decadent base, with just the right amount of sweetness. For a smooth, creamy touch, creamy peanut butter is your go-to. I often remind myself that a pinch of coarse kosher salt can elevate these flavors, giving an unexpected depth.

Now, if you’re feeling adventurous or hosting a party, try some fun variations! Add a touch of spice with a sprinkle of cayenne for a spicy brownie batter twist—it’s a hit among those who love a kick. Or, bring a splash of color with rainbow sprinkles mixed in once everything is coated. For a nutty crunch, toss in some toasted almonds or pecans along with the pretzels. These additions not only add flavor but also create a festive, textured snack perfect for gatherings.

Thinking outside the box? Consider swapping the dry brownie mix for cocoa powder and powdered sugar if you’re seeking a less sweet option. Each variation allows you to tailor this classic treat to your palate or party theme, ensuring your Brownie Batter Puppy Chow is always the star of the show.

Serving the finished Brownie batter puppy chow.

FAQ’s About Brownie Batter Puppy Chow

Can I use Nutella for brownie batter puppy chow?

Absolutely! Nutella can add a delightful hazelnut twist to your brownie batter puppy chow. Simply substitute the peanut butter with an equal amount of Nutella. Keep in mind that Nutella is a bit sweeter, so you might want to reduce the brownie mix slightly if you’re watching the sugar level. Otherwise, experiment and taste as you go to find your perfect balance.

How can I make puppy chow without butter?

You don’t need butter for this brownie batter puppy chow recipe. The combination of chocolate chips and peanut butter (or Nutella) provides all the creaminess you need. If you prefer, you can use a dairy-free chocolate chip and a nut butter alternative for a vegan version. Just ensure that the mixture is smooth before coating the cereal.

How do I prevent puppy chow from becoming soggy?

The key to keeping your puppy chow crunchy is to avoid overcoating the cereal. Make sure your chocolate mixture is smooth but not overly warm when drizzling it over the cereal, as overheating can cause sogginess. Also, shake off any excess brownie mix before letting it cool. Allowing it to set completely before storing will help maintain that irresistible crunch.

What can I use instead of brownie mix in puppy chow?

If you’re out of brownie mix, cocoa powder mixed with a little powdered sugar can work as a substitute. Use about 1 cup of cocoa powder and ½ cup of powdered sugar to mimic the dry mix’s sweetness and texture. You can also experiment with flavored protein powders for a unique twist. Just ensure whatever you use complements the chocolatey goodness of the rest of the ingredients.

Conclusion

Making brownie batter puppy chow is like wrapping your home in a cozy blanket of sweetness. It’s more than just a snack; it’s a delightful experience that turns ordinary moments into something special. I remember whipping up a batch on a lazy Sunday afternoon, and before I knew it, the kitchen was buzzing with happy chatter and chocolatey smiles.

The joy of this treat lies in its simplicity and the way it effortlessly brings people together. Whether you’re sharing it at a family gathering, gifting it to a friend, or enjoying it as a quiet indulgence after a long day, each bite is a little reminder that sometimes the best things in life are the simplest.

I hope you’re encouraged to try this recipe and experience the magic for yourself. Don’t forget to share your creations and stories with us. For more delicious recipes and sweet inspirations, follow us on social media!

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Indulge in Brownie Batter Puppy Chow: A Sweet Snack Twist


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  • Author: Abby Martin
  • Total Time: 20
  • Yield: 16 cups 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A delightful treat combining chocolate, peanut butter, and brownie mix.


Ingredients

Scale

9 cups Rice Chex cereal

2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

Pinch of coarse kosher salt

1 1/2 cups dry brownie mix powder

4 cups small pretzels


Instructions

1. Pour the Rice Chex cereal into a large bowl.

2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and peanut butter. Microwave at 1-minute intervals, stirring between, until smooth. Stir in salt.

3. Drizzle chocolate mixture over cereal. Use a rubber spatula to gently fold until evenly coated.

4. Place brownie mix in a large bag. Add chocolate-covered cereal. Seal and shake until coated.

5. Let the mixture cool completely and add pretzels.

6. Store well-covered at room temperature.

Notes

For substitutions, use 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar and 1/3 cup cocoa powder if out of brownie mix.

  • Prep Time: 20
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 200 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

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