Puppy Chow Bars

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Gooey, chocolatey, and loaded with nostalgic cereal crunch—Puppy Chow Bars are the ultimate no-bake treat that everyone will devour. Imagine everything you love about classic muddy buddies, but in bar form with thick layers of melted chocolate and a dusting of powdered sugar. These bars are perfect for lunchbox treats, party platters, or whenever that sweet craving hits.

Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch from cereal coated in a rich peanut butter-chocolate mixture, then set into chewy, sliceable bars that hold their shape. No stovetop required, minimal cleanup, and maximum flavor payoff. Whether you’re making them with kids or just want a quick dessert that doesn’t need an oven, this one’s a guaranteed win.

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What Kind of Cereal Should I Use?

Rice Chex or Corn Chex are the traditional picks, thanks to their light crisp and crisscross texture that holds onto the chocolate coating so well. You can also use crispy rice cereal if you’re after a slightly denser bite, or mix both for a texture twist.

Avoid cereals that get soggy quickly, and aim for ones with nooks that trap the gooey goodness.

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Ingredients for the Puppy Chow Bars

Chex Cereal – This is the structural base of the bars. It gives that classic crunch while holding all the chocolate-peanut butter coating.

Creamy Peanut Butter – Acts as the glue and flavor booster, blending seamlessly with the chocolate.

Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Melted into the peanut butter for a rich, smooth coating that hardens into fudgy bites.

Butter – Adds a silky richness and helps melt everything evenly.

Vanilla Extract – A touch of warmth that enhances the overall flavor.

Powdered Sugar – Sprinkled over the top for that signature puppy chow look and a sweet finish.

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How To Make the Puppy Chow Bars

Step 1: Prep the Pan

Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This step makes removing and slicing the bars effortless.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture

In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine semi-sweet chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted. Stir in the vanilla extract once melted.

Step 3: Coat the Cereal

Pour the Chex cereal into the chocolate mixture and fold gently until every piece is well coated. Take your time to avoid crushing the cereal.

Step 4: Press Into the Pan

Transfer the coated cereal into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or lightly greased hands to press the mixture down evenly into the pan, making sure it’s compact.

Step 5: Chill and Set

Place the pan in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or until the bars are firm and set. This helps them hold their shape when sliced.

Step 6: Add the Powdered Sugar

Once the bars are firm, remove them from the pan and dust generously with powdered sugar. For a classic look, sift it over the top. Slice into squares and serve!

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How to Serve and Store Puppy Chow Bars

These bars are best served chilled or at room temperature. The chocolate-peanut butter combo stays firm but melts deliciously in your mouth. For parties, cut them into bite-sized squares and dust with an extra touch of powdered sugar right before serving for a fresh, snowy look.

To store, keep the bars in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to 4 days, or in the fridge for about a week. If you want to make them ahead, they freeze beautifully too—just separate layers with parchment paper and thaw in the fridge before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?

Yes, almond butter works well if you’re looking for a peanut-free option. Just make sure it’s creamy and not too oily for the best texture.

What if I don’t have a microwave?

You can melt the chocolate, peanut butter, and butter together on the stovetop over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth.

Can I add mix-ins like M&Ms or mini marshmallows?

Definitely! Just fold them in after the cereal is coated but before pressing into the pan. Keep in mind that too many add-ins can affect how well the bars hold together.

Are these safe for kids to make?

Yes! This is a great no-bake recipe for kids with supervision, especially since there’s no oven involved. Melting the mixture is the only step that requires adult help.

How do I make them extra chocolatey?

Swap in dark chocolate chips for a deeper chocolate flavor, or drizzle melted chocolate over the top before chilling.

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Want More Dessert Bar Ideas?

If you loved these Puppy Chow Bars, you might want to explore more unique dessert bars and cookies that bring a fun twist to classic flavors:

• Condensed Milk Snow Cookies are soft, chewy, and perfect for wintery vibes.
• Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups offer bright citrusy tang with a creamy swirl.
• Caramel Cheesecake Cookies combine rich caramel and creamy filling in each bite.
• Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is a fruity spin on the original you just made.
• Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats bring toasted, gooey goodness to your snack lineup.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time: Life with Jam Pinterest.

Let me know in the comments how your bars turned out. Did you use a different cereal? Add marshmallows or candy bits? I love hearing how each version gets its own twist.

If you have questions or need substitutions, drop a note below and let’s bake better together.

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