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Caramel Apple Puppy Chow

Caramel Apple Puppy Chow - featured image
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This easy Caramel Apple Puppy Chow is a sweet, crunchy fall snack inspired by classic caramel apples and Puppy Chow. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or cozy evenings, it combines caramel, dried apples, and Chex cereal for a nostalgic treat everyone loves.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups Rice Chex cereal (or Corn Chex)
  • 1 cup dried apples, diced
  • 1 cup caramel bits or soft caramel candies, unwrapped
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
  • Optional: 1/2 cup mini white chocolate chips
  • Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon apple pie spice

Instructions

  1. Measure out 6 cups Rice Chex cereal and pour into a large mixing bowl. Dice 1 cup dried apples into small, bite-sized pieces and add them to the cereal. Set aside.
  2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup caramel bits or soft caramel candies and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring after each, until fully melted and smooth (1-2 minutes total). Stir in vanilla extract and ground cinnamon.
  3. Quickly pour the melted caramel over the cereal and dried apples. Use a rubber spatula to gently toss and coat every piece.
  4. Transfer the coated mixture into a gallon-sized zip-top bag. Add powdered sugar. Seal tightly and shake vigorously until every piece is evenly coated.
  5. Spread the Puppy Chow out on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let it cool for 10-15 minutes to help the coating set.
  6. Once cooled, gently toss in mini white chocolate chips or chopped pecans, if using. Sprinkle with extra cinnamon or apple pie spice if desired.
  7. Transfer to a serving bowl, mason jars, or treat bags. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free Chex and check caramel/powdered sugar labels. For vegan, swap butter for coconut oil and use dairy-free caramel and white chocolate chips. Work quickly when mixing caramel, and let Puppy Chow cool before adding chocolate chips or nuts. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to a month.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://jodierecipes.com/caramel-apple-puppy-chow-recipe-easy-fall-snack-for-parties/