Pistachio Puppy Chow Recipe

Introduction

Pistachio Puppy Chow is a delightful twist on the classic snack mix, combining crunchy Rice Chex cereal with a sweet pistachio-flavored coating. It’s quick to prepare and makes a perfect treat for parties or a cozy snack time.

Ingredients

• 6 cups Rice Chex cereal
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 (3.4 oz) box instant pistachio pudding mix
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup crushed pistachios (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, pour the Rice Chex cereal and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips and unsalted butter. Melt in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted.
3. Step 3: Stir in the instant pistachio pudding mix and vanilla extract into the melted chocolate mixture until well combined.
4. Step 4: Pour the chocolate and pudding mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Gently fold the cereal until evenly coated without breaking the pieces.
5. Step 5: Let the coated cereal cool slightly to avoid melting the powdered sugar.
6. Step 6: Transfer the mixture to a large gallon-size zip-top bag. Add the powdered sugar and crushed pistachios (if using). Seal the bag and shake gently until the cereal is evenly coated with powdered sugar.
7. Step 7: Spread the Puppy Chow on a baking sheet to cool completely before serving or storing.

Tips & Variations

• Melt white chocolate slowly and carefully to avoid seizing.
• Use a box of instant pistachio pudding mix only to prevent graininess in the coating.
• Swap white chocolate for almond bark or vanilla chips for a different flavor profile.
• Add mini marshmallows, crushed freeze-dried raspberries, or M&Ms for extra texture and color.
• Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a nuttier taste.
• Skip crushed pistachios if you prefer a smooth coating without nut pieces.

Storage

Store Pistachio Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To refresh the crunch, serve at room temperature and avoid refrigeration, which can cause sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other pudding flavors?

Yes! Vanilla, white chocolate, or banana pudding mixes are great alternatives that give a unique twist to the snack.

How long does this keep?

It stays fresh up to one week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

Pistachio Puppy Chow Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 102 reviews

Pistachio Puppy Chow is a deliciously sweet snack mix featuring crispy Rice Chex cereal coated in a smooth white chocolate and instant pistachio pudding mixture, then dusted with powdered sugar and optionally garnished with crushed pistachios. This quick and easy treat is perfect for parties, snacking, or gifting, combining creamy pistachio flavor with a crunchy texture that stays crisp. The instant pistachio pudding not only enhances flavor but also helps the coating adhere perfectly to the cereal, creating a delightful, nostalgic dessert twist.

• Author: Lisa
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 10 servings 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Snack Mix

• 6 cups Rice Chex cereal
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 (3.4 oz) box instant pistachio pudding mix
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup crushed pistachios (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and unsalted butter. Melt them together on low power in 20-30 second increments, stirring between each until smooth and fully melted without overheating.
2. Add Flavor Mix: Stir in the instant pistachio pudding mix and vanilla extract into the melted white chocolate and butter mixture until well combined, forming a smooth, creamy coating.
3. Mix with Cereal: Place the Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl. Pour the pistachio white chocolate mixture over the cereal and gently fold with a spatula, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated without breaking the cereal.
4. Coat with Powdered Sugar: Transfer the coated cereal into a large gallon-size zip-top bag. Add the powdered sugar, seal the bag, and shake vigorously until the cereal pieces are evenly covered in powdered sugar, creating a distinctive pup-py chow look.
5. Add Pistachio Garnish: If desired, sprinkle the crushed pistachios over the coated cereal and gently toss to incorporate for added texture and flavor.
6. Cool and Serve: Spread the finished puppy chow on a baking sheet or parchment paper to cool and set for a few minutes. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week for best freshness.

Notes

• Be careful not to overheat the white chocolate, as it can seize easily. Use low power increments when melting.
• Allow the white chocolate and pudding mixture to cool slightly before adding powdered sugar to avoid melting it and losing the signature powdered coating look.
• Stick to one box of instant pudding to prevent a grainy texture.
• For gluten-free preparation, use gluten-free Rice Chex and pudding mix.
• Customize this recipe by swapping pudding flavors or adding mix-ins like mini marshmallows or M&Ms.

Keywords: Pistachio Puppy Chow, snack mix, white chocolate, instant pudding, Rice Chex, sweet snack, no-bake dessert