Simplified Reindeer Chow Mix

Featured in: Simple Homemade Treats

This festive sweet snack combines crunchy rice or corn cereal with a smooth coating of melted chocolate, peanut butter, and butter. After mixing, it's coated generously with powdered sugar for a sweet finish. Colorful chocolate candies and mini pretzels add texture and visual appeal. Quick to prepare, this treat suits easy snacking during holiday gatherings or gift giving. Nut-free alternatives and storage tips make this versatile and convenient for many occasions.

Updated on Tue, 25 Nov 2025 10:08:00 GMT
Sweet, chocolate-covered Simplified Reindeer Chow mix with colorful candies, perfect for festive snacking. Save to Pinterest
Sweet, chocolate-covered Simplified Reindeer Chow mix with colorful candies, perfect for festive snacking. | savoringli.com

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

This simple recipe has become my go-to snack during the holiday season because it is both delicious and fun to make with family.

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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| savoringli.com

Making this treat brings back cherished memories of baking with my children every holiday season.

Notes

Add festive sprinkles for extra color and make it even more fun for kids.

Required Tools

Large microwave-safe bowl, spatula, zip-top bag or container with lid, baking sheet, measuring cups are needed to prepare this recipe easily.

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.

A close-up of delicious Simplified Reindeer Chow, coated in powdered sugar and ready to eat! Save to Pinterest
A close-up of delicious Simplified Reindeer Chow, coated in powdered sugar and ready to eat! | savoringli.com

This sweet snack is sure to be a holiday favorite you will enjoy making and sharing with loved ones.

Recipe Questions & Answers

Can I substitute peanut butter for allergies?

Yes, sunflower seed butter works well as a nut-free alternative without compromising flavor or texture.

What type of cereal is best for this mix?

Rice or corn Chex cereal provides a light, crunchy base that holds the coating nicely.

How should I melt the chocolate and peanut butter?

Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between until smooth, usually about 1–2 minutes.

Can I add extra toppings?

Yes, festive sprinkles can add color, and mini pretzels offer a salty crunch to balance sweetness.

How do I store the finished snack?

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

Simplified Reindeer Chow Mix

A festive sweet snack featuring crunchy cereal, chocolate, and peanut butter, ideal for celebrations.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Time to Cook
5 minutes
Overall Time
15 minutes
Created by savoringli Lila Anderson


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type American

Makes 8 Serving Size

Diet Details Vegetarian-Friendly

Ingredient List

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 (such as M&Ms)
03 1/2 cup mini pretzels (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 01

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

Step 02

Combine with Cereal: Add Chex cereal to the bowl and gently fold until all pieces are evenly coated with the chocolate-peanut butter mixture.

Step 03

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

Step 04

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

Step 05

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

Equipment Needed

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

Allergy Info

Review every ingredient for allergens. If unsure, check with a healthcare provider.
  • 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 Info (per portion)

Serves for general info – not a replacement for professional advice.
  • Calorie Count: 320
  • Fats: 13 g
  • Carbohydrates: 48 g
  • Proteins: 4 g