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Crispy Caramel Apple Puppy Chow

crispy caramel apple puppy chow - featured image

This easy fall party snack features crunchy Chex cereal coated in creamy white chocolate and caramel, tossed with real apple powder and powdered sugar for a sweet, tangy, and crispy treat. Perfect for class parties, autumn gatherings, or cozy movie nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups rice Chex cereal (or corn Chex)
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup caramel bits (soft caramel candies, chopped small)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/2 cup freeze-dried apple slices, ground into powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons caramel-flavored instant pudding mix

Instructions

  1. Measure out 6 cups of rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl. Grind freeze-dried apple slices in a food processor or blender until you get a fine powder. Set aside.
  2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips, caramel bits, and unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring after each, until smooth (about 1-2 minutes). Stir in sea salt and cinnamon after melting.
  3. Pour the melted caramel-chocolate mixture over the Chex cereal. Use a spatula to gently stir until every piece is coated.
  4. Transfer coated cereal into a large zip-top or paper bag. Add the ground apple powder, powdered sugar, and, if desired, caramel pudding mix. Seal the bag and shake vigorously until every piece is dusted.
  5. Pour puppy chow onto a lined baking sheet and spread out into an even layer. Let it cool for at least 15 minutes until the coating sets and the pieces are crispy.
  6. Once cooled, transfer to a serving bowl or portion into snack-sized bags. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Notes

Use gluten-free Chex for allergy-friendly parties. For dairy-free or vegan, swap in dairy-free white chocolate chips and vegan butter. If you can’t find freeze-dried apples, pulse apple chips in a blender. Double bag for dusting to avoid mess. Let cool completely for maximum crispiness. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: puppy chow, caramel apple, fall snack, party treat, Chex mix, autumn recipe, kid-friendly, gluten-free, easy dessert