Chocolate Brownie Reindeer Chow
You know those afternoons when you're winding down from a busy day in Manhattan, and the kids come in from school looking for something sweet and fun? That’s when my Chocolate Brownie Reindeer Chow comes to the rescue. This festive, no-bake treat combines crunchy cereal, rich chocolate, and a hint of peanut butter goodness. It's perfect for sharing on a cozy winter evening at home. Plus, it only takes about 20 minutes to whip up from start to finish. Check out my Gluten-Free Lemon Crinkle Cookies for another delightful treat!
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Why you'll love this recipe
This Chocolate Brownie Reindeer Chow recipe is a lifesaver, especially when time is tight, but you still want to impress the family. My kids, Alex and Sarah, love helping with the shaking and mixing—it’s like a mini workout disguised as fun! The mix of sweet and salty is so addictive, you'll find it hard to resist grabbing a handful. It's also a great make-ahead option for those busy holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 cups rice Chex cereal or corn
- 1 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
- ½ cup peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups brownie mix (dry mix from an 18.4oz box)
- 2 cups confectioner’s sugar
- 1 cup mini peanut butter cups
- 1 cup red chocolate candy (like M&M's)
- 2 cups pretzels (any shape)
Step-by-step instructions
- Add the cereal to a large bowl.
- Melt the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter in a medium microwave-safe bowl for 1 minute, stir, and continue heating for 10-20 seconds at a time until the chocolate is almost melted, stirring after each heating.
- Remove from the microwave and stir until completely smooth.
- Pour the mixture over the cereal and toss to coat well.
- Pour the cereal mixture into a resealable bag and add the dry brownie mix.
- Close the bag and shake it to coat the cereal completely. Set aside.
- Repeat the process using confectioner’s sugar to coat the chocolate cereal instead of brownie mix.
- Add both of the completed puppy chow recipes and the pretzels to a very large bowl.
- Stir to combine.
- Top with candy before serving.
- Store in an airtight container.
Recipe tips & variations
Here's a tip I've learned: if you don't have brownie mix on hand, cocoa powder mixed with a touch of powdered sugar works in a pinch. For a nut-free version, skip the peanut butter and use sunflower seed butter instead. This chow is incredibly versatile, allowing room for fun twists based on your family's preferences—try adding some crushed peppermint candies for a holiday flair!
Storage & reheating
Store your Chocolate Brownie Reindeer Chow in an airtight container to keep it fresh and crunchy. To maintain its delightful texture, store it in a cool, dry place for up to a week. If you're making it ahead for a future event, prepare the mix without the candies and add them just before serving to keep everything looking nice and festive.
FAQs
What’s the difference between the brownie puppy chow and the classic puppy chow in this Reindeer Chow recipe?
The main difference is the exciting addition of brownie mix, giving this version a rich, chocolaty twist that elevates the traditional puppy chow to a festive treat.
Can I make Reindeer Chow ahead of time and how should I store it?
Absolutely! Assemble it without the candy toppings and store it in an airtight container. Add the candies just before serving to keep everything vibrant and crunchy.
What substitutions can I use if I don’t have brownie mix for the coating?
A mix of cocoa powder and confectioner’s sugar makes a good stand-in if brownie mix isn't available. Adjust for taste, and get creative with other flavors!
How can I keep the Reindeer Chow from becoming soggy or losing its crunch?
Ensure that the coated cereal is completely cool before storing it, and make sure it's stored in a tight container in a dry place to maintain its crunch.
Recipes you may like
- Gluten-Free Lemon Crinkle Cookies
- Creamy Mango Banana Smoothie for a Fresh Morning Boost
- Pineapple Green Smoothie
Feel free to share how your family enjoys this delightful concoction. We love hearing from you! This Chocolate Brownie Reindeer Chow is so easy, you might find yourself making it long after the holiday season ends. Enjoy!
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Chocolate Brownie Reindeer Chow
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A festive, no-bake Chocolate Brownie Reindeer Chow recipe that combines crunchy cereal, rich chocolate, and a hint of peanut butter goodness.
Ingredients
- 4 cups rice Chex cereal or corn
- 1 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
- ½ cup peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups brownie mix (dry mix from an 18.4oz box)
- 2 cups confectioner’s sugar
- 1 cup mini peanut butter cups
- 1 cup red chocolate candy (like M&M's)
- 2 cups pretzels (any shape)
Instructions
- Add the cereal to a large bowl.
- Melt the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter in a medium microwave-safe bowl for 1 minute, stir, and continue heating for 10-20 seconds at a time until the chocolate is almost melted, stirring after each heating.
- Remove from the microwave and stir until completely smooth.
- Pour the mixture over the cereal and toss to coat well.
- Pour the cereal mixture into a resealable bag and add the dry brownie mix.
- Close the bag and shake it to coat the cereal completely. Set aside.
- Repeat the process using confectioner’s sugar to coat the chocolate cereal instead of brownie mix.
- Add both of the completed puppy chow recipes and the pretzels to a very large bowl.
- Stir to combine.
- Top with candy before serving.
- Store in an airtight container.
Notes
- If you don't have brownie mix, cocoa powder mixed with a touch of powdered sugar works in a pinch.
- For a nut-free version, skip the peanut butter and use sunflower seed butter instead.
- Try adding some crushed peppermint candies for a holiday flair!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
