Simplified Reindeer Chow Mix

Featured in: Quick Sweet Fixes

This festive sweet snack features crunchy cereal coated in a smooth blend of chocolate and peanut butter, then dusted with powdered sugar and topped with colorful candies and optional mini pretzels. Quick to prepare in under 15 minutes, it’s an ideal treat for gatherings or gifting during the holidays. Nut-free variations can be made using sunflower seed butter, making it versatile for different dietary needs.

Updated on Tue, 25 Nov 2025 10:01:00 GMT
Golden-dusted Simplified Reindeer Chow mix: crunchy cereal coated in chocolate and peanut butter, ready to serve. Pin it
Golden-dusted Simplified Reindeer Chow mix: crunchy cereal coated in chocolate and peanut butter, ready to serve. | weeknightwhisk.com

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

This recipe has become a holiday staple in our family, bringing a perfect combination of sweet and crunchy that everyone loves.

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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This mix always makes the holiday extra special when shared with family and friends.

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.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 320, Total Fat: 13 g, Carbohydrates: 48 g, Protein: 4 g per serving

Festive Christmas snack featuring Simplified Reindeer Chow, layered in a bowl with colorful candies for gifting. Pin it
Festive Christmas snack featuring Simplified Reindeer Chow, layered in a bowl with colorful candies for gifting. | weeknightwhisk.com

This simple sweet mix will bring festive joy in just minutes and is perfect for sharing during the holidays.

Common Questions

What cereal works best for this snack?

Rice or corn Chex cereal provides a crunchy and sturdy base that holds the coating well.

Can I substitute peanut butter?

Yes, sunflower seed butter is a great nut-free alternative that maintains flavor and texture.

How do I melt the chocolate and butter evenly?

Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and melted to avoid burning.

Are mini pretzels necessary?

Mini pretzels add a salty crunch but are optional and can be omitted based on preference.

How should I store this snack mix?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness.

Simplified Reindeer Chow Mix

A festive sweet snack blending crunchy cereal, chocolate, peanut butter, and colorful toppings for holidays.

Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
5 min
Time Needed
15 min
Created by Ella Thompson

Dish Type Quick Sweet Fixes

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Makes 8 Portions

Dietary Info Meat-Free

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 (e.g., M&Ms)
03 1/2 cup mini pretzels (optional)

Step-by-Step

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 the mixture is melted and smooth, approximately 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 02

Combine Coating with Cereal: Add the Chex cereal to the melted mixture and gently fold until all pieces are evenly coated.

Step 03

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

Step 04

Cool the Coated Mix: Spread the sugar-coated cereal evenly on a lined baking sheet and allow to cool for 5 minutes.

Step 05

Add Final Toppings: After cooling, transfer the mixture to a serving bowl. Gently fold in the chocolate candies and mini pretzels if desired.

Tools Required

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

Allergy Notice

Go through every ingredient to identify allergens and talk to your healthcare provider if you have concerns.
  • Contains peanuts and dairy. Chocolate candies may contain or be processed with nuts, milk, or soy. Verify ingredient labels if allergies are a concern.

Nutrition Information (per portion)

Nutrition details are for general reference and shouldn't replace advice from your doctor.
  • Caloric Content: 320
  • Fats: 13 g
  • Carbohydrates: 48 g
  • Proteins: 4 g