Simplified Reindeer Chow Mix

Featured in: Sunrise Spoonfuls

This festive sweet snack brings together crunchy cereal coated in a smooth mixture of melted chocolate, peanut butter, and butter. The coated mix is tossed in powdered sugar, then adorned with red and green chocolate candies and optional mini pretzels for added crunch and color. Ready in just 15 minutes, it's an easy and delightful treat for holiday sharing or gifting. A nut-free version can be made by swapping peanut butter with sunflower seed butter, making it adaptable to various preferences.

Updated on Fri, 28 Nov 2025 13:38:00 GMT
Golden, sweet Simplified Reindeer Chow mix coated in powdered sugar and ready to eat from a bowl. Save It
Golden, sweet Simplified Reindeer Chow mix coated in powdered sugar and ready to eat from a bowl. | sunnyspoonful.com

A festive and easy-to-make sweet snack mix featuring crunchy cereal, chocolate, and peanut butter—perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting.

This mix has been a holiday favorite in my family for years and always disappears fast at gatherings.

Ingredients

  • Base: 6 cups rice or corn Chex cereal
  • Coating: 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • Topping: 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, 1/2 cup red and green chocolate candies (such as M&Ms), 1/2 cup mini pretzels (optional)

Instructions

Step 1:
In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until melted and smooth (about 1–2 minutes).
Step 2:
Add the Chex cereal to the bowl. Gently fold until all the cereal is evenly coated with the chocolate-peanut butter mixture.
Step 3:
Transfer the mixture to a large zip-top bag or a large bowl with a lid. Add the powdered sugar, seal, and shake until the cereal is well-coated.
Step 4:
Spread the coated cereal onto a lined baking sheet to cool for 5 minutes.
Step 5:
Once cool, transfer to a serving bowl and gently mix in the chocolate candies and mini pretzels, if using.
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My kids love helping shake the mix in the bag and the joy it brings to our family gatherings is priceless.

Notes

Add festive sprinkles for extra color and holiday fun.

Required Tools

Large microwave-safe bowl, spatula, zip-top bag or container with lid, baking sheet, measuring cups

Allergen Information

Contains peanuts and dairy. Chocolate candies may contain or be processed with nuts, milk, or soy. Always check ingredient labels if allergies are a concern.

Bright red and green candies top this sweet and easy Simplified Reindeer Chow snack mix. Save It
Bright red and green candies top this sweet and easy Simplified Reindeer Chow snack mix. | sunnyspoonful.com

This simple mix brings festive spirit to any occasion with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this snack without peanut butter?

Yes, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter to make a nut-free version without compromising the flavor and texture.

What type of cereal works best for this mix?

Rice or corn Chex cereal provides the ideal crunchy base that holds the coating well and adds a satisfying texture.

Is microwaving the best method for melting the chocolate and peanut butter?

Microwaving in short intervals while stirring ensures smooth melting and prevents burning or separation of the ingredients.

How should I store the prepared snack mix?

Store the mix in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness, ideally consuming within one week.

Can I add other toppings or mix-ins?

Yes, adding festive sprinkles or other candies can enhance color and flavor according to your preference.

Simplified Reindeer Chow Mix

A crunchy, chocolaty snack coated in peanut butter and powdered sugar with festive candies and pretzels.

Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
5 mins
Total Duration
15 mins
Authored by Lana Bright

Recipe Type Sunrise Spoonfuls

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Style American

Recipe Yield 8 Serving Size

Diet Preferences Vegetarian-Friendly

What You'll Need

Base

01 6 cups rice or corn Chex cereal

Coating

01 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
02 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
03 1/4 cup unsalted butter

Topping

01 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
02 1/2 cup red and green chocolate candies
03 1/2 cup mini pretzels (optional)

Directions

Step 01

Melt Coating Ingredients: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, and unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and melted, approximately 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 02

Combine with Cereal: Add the Chex cereal to the melted mixture. Gently fold to ensure even coating of all cereal pieces.

Step 03

Coat with Powdered Sugar: Transfer the mixture to a large zip-top bag or a bowl with lid. Add powdered sugar, seal, and shake thoroughly until the cereal is uniformly coated.

Step 04

Cool Snack Mix: Spread the coated cereal onto a lined baking sheet and allow to cool for 5 minutes to set.

Step 05

Add Toppings and Serve: Once cooled, transfer to a serving bowl and gently mix in chocolate candies and mini pretzels if desired.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large microwave-safe bowl
  • Spatula
  • Zip-top bag or container with lid
  • Baking sheet
  • Measuring cups

Allergy Information

Review each ingredient to identify potential allergens, and consult a healthcare professional if you're unsure.
  • Contains peanuts and dairy.
  • Chocolate candies may contain or be processed with nuts, milk, or soy.
  • Check ingredient labels carefully for allergy concerns.

Nutrition Details (Per Serving)

This nutritional data is for reference only and isn't a substitute for medical advice.
  • Caloric Value: 320
  • Fats: 13 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 48 grams
  • Proteins: 4 grams