This Christmas Reindeer Chex Mix is the ideal blend of sweet and salty, with a chocolatey crunch that's simply irresistible. Easy to make, perfect for gifts, and simply a cozy snack that's oh-so enjoyable.

Christmas Reindeer Chex Mix Recipe in a white bowl

Whenever I think of the holiday season, I think of this tasty Christmas snack mix. Aside from classic Christmas cookies, this recipe is a go-to during the festive season. You may have heard of this treat under a different name Christmas puppy chow recipe or reindeer puppy chow but no matter the name, it's a special recipe that has the perfect mixture of textures and flavors.

Crunchy Chex cereal, creamy peanut butter, smooth chocolate, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar that ties it all together, this festive snack mix is a crowd pleaser that few can resist. Plus, it's easily customizable, making it great for gift giving.

Why this recipe is a family favorite

It's easy: Plain and simple, this recipe is perfect when you need a quick treat for unexpected guests or want to satisfy your sweet tooth during a christmas movie marathon. It's ready in minutes with minimal effort.
You can customize it: Whether you're a milk chocolate or dark chocoalte person, peanut butter or almond butter, this recipe can easily adapt to preferences and/or dietary needs.
The festive fun: The colorful holiday candies make this recipe as aesthetic and fun as it is delicious. It goes great on my Christmas charcuterie board or paired with my green no bake grinch cookies.

Christmas Reindeer Chex Mix Recipe ingredients

What you'll need

Chex Cereal: The base of this holiday mix, you can use rice or corn Chex.
Chocolate Chips: Create the rich, delicious "glue" that holds this mix together. Milk chocolate is a classic choice, but you could also use dark chocolate if you prefer a deeper flavor.
Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter adds a smooth texture and a slight salty note that contrasts the sweetness.
Butter: This helps the chocolate and peanut butter meld together.
Vanilla Extract: Just a teaspoon, but it makes a big difference in combining the flavors.
Powdered Sugar: The finishing touch that coats the mix in a snowy layer.
Holiday Candies: Red and green M&M's, mini Reese's cups, or any other festive candies you like. These not only add color but also extra bursts of flavor.

Can I make this without peanut butter?

Yes, you can make this recipe without peanut butter. If you're catering to peanut allergies or simply do not like peanut butter, you can use almond butter, sun butter, cashew butter, or mixed nut butter. The choice is up to you.

How to make reindeer puppy chow

Melt the Chocolate Mixture: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave in 30-60 second intervals, stirring in between, until melted. Then, stir in the vanilla or peppermint extract.

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Coat the Cereal: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the Chex cereal. Gently stir with a large spoon or spatula until the cereal is evenly coated.

Christmas Reindeer Chex Mix being stirred in a bowl

Add the Powdered Sugar: Transfer the coated cereal to a large ziplock bag, add the powdered sugar, seal the bag, and shake until the cereal is fully coated. Be careful not to over mix or crush the cereal.

Finish with Candy: Pour the mix into a fresh bowl and add your holiday candies, toss the bowl lightly to incorporate.

How long does puppy chow stay good?

Just like our Halloween Chex Mix and Christmas crack Chex mix, this recipe will stay fresh for 1-2 weeks at room temperature. Make sure to store in an airtight bag or sealed Tupperware on the counter. The long shelf life allows you to make this snack in advance and snack on it whenever you need a pick-me-up.

Flavor variations

Nut free: Swap the peanut butter and use nut-free add ins like mini marshmallows or more chocolate chips. This classic and indulgent white chocolate christmas crack is a nut-free recipe that I love serving at holiday gatherings.
Cereal options: Corn Chex, Chocolate Chex, or even a mix of Corn Flakes and Cheerios will work for this recipe. I recommend including some Chex cereal as it holds the chocolate coating better than other cereals.
White chocolate chips: Instead of regular milk chocolate or dark chocolate, you can use white chocolate chips for a snowy look and creamier taste.
Pretzel mix: Adding crunchy pretzels are a great way to switch up this recipe. Mini pretzels or mini pretzel sticks go great with chocolate, peanut butter, and powdered sugar.
Candy mix-ins: Feel free to swap the candies for other holiday sweets. Peanut M&M’s, Rolo caramels, Reese’s Pieces, mini Oreo cookies, or even Cadbury Snowballs can add a fun twist to the mix.

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