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Peppermint Bark Puppy Chow Irresistible Holiday Treat

by on November 29, 2025

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Looking to add a festive twist to your holiday snack? Peppermint Bark Puppy Chow is the perfect blend of sweet and crunchy. This easy treat combines the classic flavors of peppermint and chocolate, making it too good to resist. In this article, I’ll guide you through each step, share helpful tips, and offer fun variations. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful holiday indulgence!

To make Peppermint Bark Puppy Chow, gather these key ingredients: - 9 cups Rice Chex cereal - 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips - 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter - 1/4 cup butter - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract - 1 cup powdered sugar - 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes These ingredients create a fun treat. The Rice Chex cereal gives it a nice crunch. The chocolate, peanut butter, and butter mix to form a smooth coat. Vanilla and peppermint extracts add that sweet holiday taste. Finally, powdered sugar and crushed peppermint candies give it a festive look. You can switch up the chocolate and flavors if you want. Use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a sweeter taste. Dark chocolate chips can bring a rich flavor. If you need nut-free options, try sun butter or soy nut butter in place of peanut butter. For flavor, consider using orange or almond extracts to change things up. Garnishes make your Puppy Chow look pretty and festive. You can sprinkle extra crushed peppermint on top for a pop of color. Try adding festive sprinkles for a fun touch. If you want to make it extra special, drizzle white chocolate over the top. This adds a nice contrast and a bit of sweetness. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by measuring 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal. Place it in a large bowl. This cereal will give our puppy chow its crunchy texture. Make sure to set it aside while you prepare the chocolate mixture. This helps keep it from getting soggy before coating. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter, and 1/4 cup of butter. Use low heat to melt this mixture. Stir continuously until it is smooth. This will take a few minutes. Once melted, remove the saucepan from heat. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Mix well until everything is combined. This step fills your kitchen with a lovely holiday scent! Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Gently fold the cereal into the chocolate. Make sure all pieces are well coated. Next, take a large resealable plastic bag. Add 1 cup of powdered sugar and 1/2 cup of crushed peppermint candies into the bag. Carefully transfer the chocolate-coated cereal into the bag. Seal it tightly and shake it well. This coats the cereal in a sweet, crunchy layer. Spread the puppy chow onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let it cool for about 30 minutes. Once cooled, break it into clusters. Store the puppy chow in an airtight container for later enjoyment. To keep your Rice Chex cereal from clumping, coat it quickly. Work in small batches. Pour a little of the melted chocolate mix over the cereal. Gently fold and mix. This helps each piece get an even coat. If you pour all at once, clumps form easily. When melting chocolate, use low heat. I like to use a medium saucepan. Stir it often to avoid burning. Mix in the peanut butter and butter together. This gives a smooth texture. Remove the pan from heat as soon as it melts. Add the extracts right away for the best flavor. For leftovers, always use an airtight container. This keeps your peppermint bark puppy chow fresh. Store it in a cool, dry place. It can last up to two weeks. If you live in a warm area, keep it in the fridge. Just let it sit out for a few minutes before serving. Pro Tips Use Quality Chocolate: The better the chocolate, the richer the flavor of your puppy chow. Consider using high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips for the best results. Crush Peppermints Efficiently: For easier crushing, place peppermint candies in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin to break them into small pieces. This prevents pieces from flying everywhere! Coating Technique: Make sure to fold the chocolate mixture gently into the Rice Chex to avoid breaking the cereal pieces. This will help maintain a nice texture. Storage Tips: Keep your puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness. It can last for up to two weeks, but it’s so delicious, it likely won’t last that long! {{image_2}} You can add fun mix-ins to make your Peppermint Bark Puppy Chow even better. Try adding mini chocolate chips for extra chocolate flavor. Or, toss in some holiday sprinkles to make it festive. You can also use white chocolate chips for a creamy twist. Dried cranberries add a nice tart flavor. Be creative and mix what you love! This recipe can easily fit a gluten-free diet. Rice Chex cereal is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice. Always check labels on other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free too. Use a gluten-free powdered sugar if needed. With these easy swaps, everyone can enjoy this treat. You can make this recipe vegan with a few simple changes. Use dairy-free chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet ones. Swap creamy peanut butter for almond or cashew butter if you prefer. Replace butter with coconut oil for a rich flavor. Finally, check that your powdered sugar is vegan-friendly. These small changes make this treat perfect for anyone! To keep your Peppermint Bark Puppy Chow fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture from ruining the texture. Place the container in a cool, dark spot. Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Use glass jars or plastic containers with tight lids. These containers seal well and keep air out. If you have a vacuum-sealable bag, that works great too. Just pack the puppy chow tightly inside. This method helps it last longer and keeps it crunchy. Peppermint Bark Puppy Chow stays fresh for about two weeks at room temperature. If stored in the fridge, it can last up to a month. Look for signs of spoilage like a stale smell or changes in color. If it feels soft or sticky, it's time to toss it. Always taste a small piece if unsure. Enjoy your holiday treat while it's at its best! Yes, you can make Peppermint Bark Puppy Chow ahead of time. It keeps well for up to two weeks when stored correctly. Just place it in an airtight container. This makes it a great treat to prepare for holiday gatherings. The flavors will blend and become even more delightful over time. If you need a substitute for Rice Chex, try Corn Chex or Crispix. Both options will give you that crunchy texture. You can also use gluten-free Chex if you prefer. Just ensure the cereal is plain, as flavors may change the taste of the treat. To adjust the sweetness, you can reduce the amount of powdered sugar. Start with half a cup and taste. If you want it sweeter, add more gradually. You can also use less chocolate if you prefer a less sweet outcome. This allows you to customize it to fit your taste. Yes, peppermint extract is safe for desserts. Just use it in small amounts to avoid overpowering flavors. The extract adds a refreshing taste that pairs well with chocolate and peanut butter. Always check the label for any allergies or ingredients you may want to avoid. Peppermint Bark Puppy Chow is a fun and easy treat. This blog covers essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You can use alternative flavors and create variations for special diets. Proper storage ensures your treats stay fresh. With this guide, you can make delicious snacks any time of year. Enjoy sharing your tasty creation with friends and family. Your treats will impress everyone!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Festive Flavor: The combination of chocolate and peppermint creates a deliciously festive treat that’s perfect for the holiday season.
  2. Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 15 minutes of prep time, making it a hassle-free dessert option.
  3. Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite mix-ins or adjusting the amount of peppermint for a stronger flavor.
  4. Great for Gifting: Peppermint Bark Puppy Chow makes a wonderful homemade gift that friends and family will love!

Ingredients

Essential Ingredients for Peppermint Bark Puppy Chow

To make Peppermint Bark Puppy Chow, gather these key ingredients:

– 9 cups Rice Chex cereal

– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

– 1/4 cup butter

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract

– 1 cup powdered sugar

– 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes

These ingredients create a fun treat. The Rice Chex cereal gives it a nice crunch. The chocolate, peanut butter, and butter mix to form a smooth coat. Vanilla and peppermint extracts add that sweet holiday taste. Finally, powdered sugar and crushed peppermint candies give it a festive look.

Alternative Options for Chocolate and Flavorings

You can switch up the chocolate and flavors if you want. Use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a sweeter taste. Dark chocolate chips can bring a rich flavor. If you need nut-free options, try sun butter or soy nut butter in place of peanut butter. For flavor, consider using orange or almond extracts to change things up.

Garnishes to Enhance Presentation

Garnishes make your Puppy Chow look pretty and festive. You can sprinkle extra crushed peppermint on top for a pop of color. Try adding festive sprinkles for a fun touch. If you want to make it extra special, drizzle white chocolate over the top. This adds a nice contrast and a bit of sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Cereal Base

Start by measuring 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal. Place it in a large bowl. This cereal will give our puppy chow its crunchy texture. Make sure to set it aside while you prepare the chocolate mixture. This helps keep it from getting soggy before coating.

Melting Chocolate Mixture Procedure

In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter, and 1/4 cup of butter. Use low heat to melt this mixture. Stir continuously until it is smooth. This will take a few minutes. Once melted, remove the saucepan from heat. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Mix well until everything is combined. This step fills your kitchen with a lovely holiday scent!

Coating and Cooling Techniques

Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Gently fold the cereal into the chocolate. Make sure all pieces are well coated. Next, take a large resealable plastic bag. Add 1 cup of powdered sugar and 1/2 cup of crushed peppermint candies into the bag. Carefully transfer the chocolate-coated cereal into the bag. Seal it tightly and shake it well. This coats the cereal in a sweet, crunchy layer. Spread the puppy chow onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let it cool for about 30 minutes. Once cooled, break it into clusters. Store the puppy chow in an airtight container for later enjoyment.

Tips & Tricks

How to Avoid Clumping of Cereal

To keep your Rice Chex cereal from clumping, coat it quickly. Work in small batches. Pour a little of the melted chocolate mix over the cereal. Gently fold and mix. This helps each piece get an even coat. If you pour all at once, clumps form easily.

Best Practices for Melting Chocolate

When melting chocolate, use low heat. I like to use a medium saucepan. Stir it often to avoid burning. Mix in the peanut butter and butter together. This gives a smooth texture. Remove the pan from heat as soon as it melts. Add the extracts right away for the best flavor.

Storing Leftovers and Maintaining Freshness

For leftovers, always use an airtight container. This keeps your peppermint bark puppy chow fresh. Store it in a cool, dry place. It can last up to two weeks. If you live in a warm area, keep it in the fridge. Just let it sit out for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Quality Chocolate: The better the chocolate, the richer the flavor of your puppy chow. Consider using high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips for the best results.
  2. Crush Peppermints Efficiently: For easier crushing, place peppermint candies in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin to break them into small pieces. This prevents pieces from flying everywhere!
  3. Coating Technique: Make sure to fold the chocolate mixture gently into the Rice Chex to avoid breaking the cereal pieces. This will help maintain a nice texture.
  4. Storage Tips: Keep your puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness. It can last for up to two weeks, but it’s so delicious, it likely won’t last that long!

Variations

Holiday-Themed Mix-Ins

You can add fun mix-ins to make your Peppermint Bark Puppy Chow even better. Try adding mini chocolate chips for extra chocolate flavor. Or, toss in some holiday sprinkles to make it festive. You can also use white chocolate chips for a creamy twist. Dried cranberries add a nice tart flavor. Be creative and mix what you love!

Gluten-Free Adaptations

This recipe can easily fit a gluten-free diet. Rice Chex cereal is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice. Always check labels on other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free too. Use a gluten-free powdered sugar if needed. With these easy swaps, everyone can enjoy this treat.

Vegan Alternatives for Ingredients

You can make this recipe vegan with a few simple changes. Use dairy-free chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet ones. Swap creamy peanut butter for almond or cashew butter if you prefer. Replace butter with coconut oil for a rich flavor. Finally, check that your powdered sugar is vegan-friendly. These small changes make this treat perfect for anyone!

Storage Info

Best Storage Practices for Longevity

To keep your Peppermint Bark Puppy Chow fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture from ruining the texture. Place the container in a cool, dark spot. Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing it.

Recommended Containers for Freshness

Use glass jars or plastic containers with tight lids. These containers seal well and keep air out. If you have a vacuum-sealable bag, that works great too. Just pack the puppy chow tightly inside. This method helps it last longer and keeps it crunchy.

Shelf Life and Signs of Spoilage

Peppermint Bark Puppy Chow stays fresh for about two weeks at room temperature. If stored in the fridge, it can last up to a month. Look for signs of spoilage like a stale smell or changes in color. If it feels soft or sticky, it’s time to toss it. Always taste a small piece if unsure. Enjoy your holiday treat while it’s at its best!

FAQs

Can I make Peppermint Bark Puppy Chow ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Peppermint Bark Puppy Chow ahead of time. It keeps well for up to two weeks when stored correctly. Just place it in an airtight container. This makes it a great treat to prepare for holiday gatherings. The flavors will blend and become even more delightful over time.

What can I substitute for Rice Chex cereal?

If you need a substitute for Rice Chex, try Corn Chex or Crispix. Both options will give you that crunchy texture. You can also use gluten-free Chex if you prefer. Just ensure the cereal is plain, as flavors may change the taste of the treat.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the recipe?

To adjust the sweetness, you can reduce the amount of powdered sugar. Start with half a cup and taste. If you want it sweeter, add more gradually. You can also use less chocolate if you prefer a less sweet outcome. This allows you to customize it to fit your taste.

Is it safe to use peppermint extract in desserts?

Yes, peppermint extract is safe for desserts. Just use it in small amounts to avoid overpowering flavors. The extract adds a refreshing taste that pairs well with chocolate and peanut butter. Always check the label for any allergies or ingredients you may want to avoid.

Peppermint Bark Puppy Chow is a fun and easy treat. This blog covers essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You can use alternative flavors and create variations for special diets. Proper storage ensures your treats stay fresh. With this guide, you can make delicious snacks any time of year. Enjoy sharing your tasty creation with friends and family. Your treats will impress everyon

To make Peppermint Bark Puppy Chow, gather these key ingredients: - 9 cups Rice Chex cereal - 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips - 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter - 1/4 cup butter - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract - 1 cup powdered sugar - 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes These ingredients create a fun treat. The Rice Chex cereal gives it a nice crunch. The chocolate, peanut butter, and butter mix to form a smooth coat. Vanilla and peppermint extracts add that sweet holiday taste. Finally, powdered sugar and crushed peppermint candies give it a festive look. You can switch up the chocolate and flavors if you want. Use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a sweeter taste. Dark chocolate chips can bring a rich flavor. If you need nut-free options, try sun butter or soy nut butter in place of peanut butter. For flavor, consider using orange or almond extracts to change things up. Garnishes make your Puppy Chow look pretty and festive. You can sprinkle extra crushed peppermint on top for a pop of color. Try adding festive sprinkles for a fun touch. If you want to make it extra special, drizzle white chocolate over the top. This adds a nice contrast and a bit of sweetness. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by measuring 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal. Place it in a large bowl. This cereal will give our puppy chow its crunchy texture. Make sure to set it aside while you prepare the chocolate mixture. This helps keep it from getting soggy before coating. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter, and 1/4 cup of butter. Use low heat to melt this mixture. Stir continuously until it is smooth. This will take a few minutes. Once melted, remove the saucepan from heat. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Mix well until everything is combined. This step fills your kitchen with a lovely holiday scent! Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Gently fold the cereal into the chocolate. Make sure all pieces are well coated. Next, take a large resealable plastic bag. Add 1 cup of powdered sugar and 1/2 cup of crushed peppermint candies into the bag. Carefully transfer the chocolate-coated cereal into the bag. Seal it tightly and shake it well. This coats the cereal in a sweet, crunchy layer. Spread the puppy chow onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let it cool for about 30 minutes. Once cooled, break it into clusters. Store the puppy chow in an airtight container for later enjoyment. To keep your Rice Chex cereal from clumping, coat it quickly. Work in small batches. Pour a little of the melted chocolate mix over the cereal. Gently fold and mix. This helps each piece get an even coat. If you pour all at once, clumps form easily. When melting chocolate, use low heat. I like to use a medium saucepan. Stir it often to avoid burning. Mix in the peanut butter and butter together. This gives a smooth texture. Remove the pan from heat as soon as it melts. Add the extracts right away for the best flavor. For leftovers, always use an airtight container. This keeps your peppermint bark puppy chow fresh. Store it in a cool, dry place. It can last up to two weeks. If you live in a warm area, keep it in the fridge. Just let it sit out for a few minutes before serving. Pro Tips Use Quality Chocolate: The better the chocolate, the richer the flavor of your puppy chow. Consider using high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips for the best results. Crush Peppermints Efficiently: For easier crushing, place peppermint candies in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin to break them into small pieces. This prevents pieces from flying everywhere! Coating Technique: Make sure to fold the chocolate mixture gently into the Rice Chex to avoid breaking the cereal pieces. This will help maintain a nice texture. Storage Tips: Keep your puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness. It can last for up to two weeks, but it’s so delicious, it likely won’t last that long! {{image_2}} You can add fun mix-ins to make your Peppermint Bark Puppy Chow even better. Try adding mini chocolate chips for extra chocolate flavor. Or, toss in some holiday sprinkles to make it festive. You can also use white chocolate chips for a creamy twist. Dried cranberries add a nice tart flavor. Be creative and mix what you love! This recipe can easily fit a gluten-free diet. Rice Chex cereal is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice. Always check labels on other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free too. Use a gluten-free powdered sugar if needed. With these easy swaps, everyone can enjoy this treat. You can make this recipe vegan with a few simple changes. Use dairy-free chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet ones. Swap creamy peanut butter for almond or cashew butter if you prefer. Replace butter with coconut oil for a rich flavor. Finally, check that your powdered sugar is vegan-friendly. These small changes make this treat perfect for anyone! To keep your Peppermint Bark Puppy Chow fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture from ruining the texture. Place the container in a cool, dark spot. Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Use glass jars or plastic containers with tight lids. These containers seal well and keep air out. If you have a vacuum-sealable bag, that works great too. Just pack the puppy chow tightly inside. This method helps it last longer and keeps it crunchy. Peppermint Bark Puppy Chow stays fresh for about two weeks at room temperature. If stored in the fridge, it can last up to a month. Look for signs of spoilage like a stale smell or changes in color. If it feels soft or sticky, it's time to toss it. Always taste a small piece if unsure. Enjoy your holiday treat while it's at its best! Yes, you can make Peppermint Bark Puppy Chow ahead of time. It keeps well for up to two weeks when stored correctly. Just place it in an airtight container. This makes it a great treat to prepare for holiday gatherings. The flavors will blend and become even more delightful over time. If you need a substitute for Rice Chex, try Corn Chex or Crispix. Both options will give you that crunchy texture. You can also use gluten-free Chex if you prefer. Just ensure the cereal is plain, as flavors may change the taste of the treat. To adjust the sweetness, you can reduce the amount of powdered sugar. Start with half a cup and taste. If you want it sweeter, add more gradually. You can also use less chocolate if you prefer a less sweet outcome. This allows you to customize it to fit your taste. Yes, peppermint extract is safe for desserts. Just use it in small amounts to avoid overpowering flavors. The extract adds a refreshing taste that pairs well with chocolate and peanut butter. Always check the label for any allergies or ingredients you may want to avoid. Peppermint Bark Puppy Chow is a fun and easy treat. This blog covers essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You can use alternative flavors and create variations for special diets. Proper storage ensures your treats stay fresh. With this guide, you can make delicious snacks any time of year. Enjoy sharing your tasty creation with friends and family. Your treats will impress everyone!

Peppermint Bark Puppy Chow

A festive treat combining chocolate, peanut butter, and peppermint flavors in a crunchy cereal mix.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10

Ingredients
  

  • 9 cups Rice Chex cereal
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 0.5 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 0.25 cup butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 0.5 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 0.5 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, measure out the Rice Chex cereal and set aside.
  • In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Stir continuously until melted and smooth.
  • Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts until well combined.
  • Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the Rice Chex cereal, gently folding until all pieces are evenly coated.
  • In a large resealable plastic bag, add the powdered sugar and crushed peppermint candies.
  • Carefully add the chocolate-coated cereal to the bag, seal, and shake until all pieces are coated in the sugary mix.
  • Spread the puppy chow out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool and set for about 30 minutes.
  • Once cooled, break into clusters and store in an airtight container.

Notes

Store in an airtight container for freshness.
Keyword holiday treat, peppermint bark, puppy chow

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