Caramel Apple Puppy Chow Recipe
Introduction
Caramel Apple Puppy Chow is a delightful twist on the classic snack mix, combining crispy Rice Chex cereal with sweet white chocolate, rich caramel, and the warm flavors of apple pie spice. This treat is perfect for autumn gatherings or whenever you crave a sweet, crunchy snack.

Ingredients
- 9 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1 cup caramel bits
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon apple pie spice
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup dried apple chips, crushed
Instructions
- Step 1: Pour 9 cups of Rice Chex into a large mixing bowl and set aside.
- Step 2: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips and caramel bits. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until melted and smooth.
- Step 3: Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Step 4: Pour the caramel mixture over the Chex and stir gently to coat evenly.
- Step 5: In a small bowl, mix together apple pie spice, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar.
- Step 6: Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the cereal and toss to coat completely.
- Step 7: Fold in crushed dried apple chips.
- Step 8: Spread the mixture on parchment paper and let cool completely before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For an extra crunch, add chopped pecans or walnuts when mixing in the dried apple chips.
- Use caramel sauce instead of caramel bits for a smoother coating.
- Substitute white chocolate chips with butterscotch chips for a richer flavor.
Storage
Store the caramel apple puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you’d like it crispier, keep it in a cool, dry place. To refresh slightly softened pieces, spread the mix on a baking sheet and warm it in a 250°F (120°C) oven for 5-7 minutes before serving.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cereal?
Yes, you can substitute Rice Chex with other square or shredded cereals like Corn Chex or Wheat Chex, but keep in mind the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
Are dried apple chips necessary?
The dried apple chips add a nice crunch and apple flavor, but if you don’t have them, you can omit or replace them with other dried fruits like raisins or dried cranberries for a different twist.
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Caramel Apple Puppy Chow Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Caramel Apple Puppy Chow is a delightful, crunchy snack mix blending the sweet warmth of caramel and white chocolate with the crispness of Rice Chex cereal and the tartness of dried apple chips. Coated with a spiced sugar blend featuring apple pie spice, this treat is perfect for fall gatherings or anytime you crave a cozy sweet snack.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 9 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1 cup caramel bits
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Coating Mix
- 1 tablespoon apple pie spice
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup dried apple chips, crushed
Instructions
- Prepare the Cereal: Pour 9 cups of Rice Chex into a large mixing bowl and set aside to have the base ready for coating.
- Melt Chocolate and Caramel: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup white chocolate chips and 1 cup caramel bits. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring thoroughly between each until the mixture is melted and smooth without lumps.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and a pinch of salt into the melted caramel and white chocolate mixture to enhance flavor complexity.
- Coat the Cereal: Pour the warm caramel mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Gently stir with a spatula or wooden spoon to ensure all cereal pieces are evenly coated without breaking.
- Mix Sugar and Spice: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon apple pie spice, 1/4 cup powdered sugar, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar, mixing well to create a spiced sugar blend.
- Apply Spiced Sugar: Sprinkle the spiced sugar mixture evenly over the coated cereal. Toss the mixture thoroughly to ensure the sugar coats every piece, creating a sweet and slightly spiced shell.
- Add Dried Apple Chips: Fold in 1/2 cup crushed dried apple chips gently to add texture and a tart apple flavor that complements the sweetness.
- Cool and Set: Spread the puppy chow mixture on a sheet of parchment paper in an even layer. Let it cool completely at room temperature so that the coating sets firm before serving.
Notes
- Make sure to melt the white chocolate and caramel bits slowly to avoid burning. Use short intervals in the microwave and stir frequently.
- Store the Caramel Apple Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- You can substitute Rice Chex with other similar rice-based cereals for a different texture if desired.
- If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of granulated sugar in the coating.
- Dried apple chips add a nice natural tartness but can be omitted if unavailable, or replaced with dried cranberries for a flavor twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Caramel Apple Puppy Chow, sweet snack mix, Rice Chex treat, white chocolate caramel snack, fall snack, spiced sweet snack, apple pie spice, caramel puppy chow

