Caramel Apple Puppy Chow Recipe
Introduction
Caramel Apple Puppy Chow is a deliciously sweet and crunchy snack that combines the warm flavors of caramel, white chocolate, and apple pie spice. It’s perfect for a quick treat or sharing at gatherings. This easy no-bake recipe takes just 15 minutes to prepare.

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 cereal 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 to the melted mixture.
- Step 4: Pour the caramel mixture over the Chex cereal 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 coated cereal, then toss to coat completely.
- Step 7: Fold in crushed dried apple chips for added texture and flavor.
- Step 8: Spread the mixture on parchment paper and let cool completely before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice instead of apple pie spice for a different seasonal twist.
- For extra crunch, add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts.
- If you prefer a stronger caramel flavor, try using a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce in place of caramel bits.
- Store the mixture in an airtight container to keep it fresh and crunchy.
Storage
Store caramel apple puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want it to last longer, keep it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To refresh before serving, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes; avoid reheating as the coating may melt.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use substitute cereal instead of Rice Chex?
Yes, other lightly flavored cereals like Corn Chex or Wheat Chex work well. Avoid cereals that are already heavily coated or flavored to prevent overwhelming the caramel mixture.
How do I crush dried apple chips?
Place dried apple chips in a resealable plastic bag and gently crush them with your hands or a rolling pin until you reach the desired size. Avoid pulverizing them into powder—small pieces add the best texture.
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Caramel Apple Puppy Chow Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
Description
This Caramel Apple Puppy Chow is a delightful sweet snack mix featuring crispy Rice Chex cereal coated in a luscious blend of melted white chocolate and caramel, enhanced with warm apple pie spice, and finished with crunchy dried apple chips. Perfect for fall gatherings or anytime cravings, this treat combines the cozy flavors of caramel apple in a crunchy, powdered sugar-coated bite.
Ingredients
Cereal Mix
- 9 cups Rice Chex cereal
Coating
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1 cup caramel bits
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Topping
- 1 tablespoon apple pie spice
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup dried apple chips, crushed
Instructions
- Prepare the Cereal: Pour 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl and set aside to prepare for coating.
- Melt the Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips and caramel bits. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each interval, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- Add Flavorings: Stir vanilla extract and a pinch of salt into the melted caramel and white chocolate mixture to enhance the flavor depth.
- Coat the Cereal: Pour the melted caramel mixture over the Rice Chex cereal and gently stir to coat all the cereal pieces evenly without breaking them.
- Mix the Sugar and Spice: In a small bowl, combine apple pie spice, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar. This mixture will add sweet and warm spiced notes to the snack.
- Toss with Sugar Mixture: Sprinkle the sugar and spice mixture over the coated cereal, then toss carefully to ensure complete coverage, creating a powdery, flavorful shell around each piece.
- Add Dried Apple Chips: Fold in the crushed dried apple chips into the coated cereal, distributing the tart and crunchy apple pieces throughout.
- Cool and Set: Spread the finished mixture onto parchment paper in a single layer and allow it to cool completely. This step helps set the coating and ensures a crisp texture before serving.
Notes
- Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking during cooling.
- Ensure the caramel and white chocolate are melted slowly and stirred well to avoid burning or graininess.
- For a stronger apple flavor, adjust the apple pie spice to taste or add a little cinnamon.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to 5 days.
- Crushing the dried apple chips into smaller pieces helps distribute the texture evenly in the mix.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Caramel apple, puppy chow, snack mix, Rice Chex, white chocolate, caramel, apple pie spice, dried apple chips

