Reindeer Chow is the perfect festive treat to add to your holiday celebrations! This delicious and easy-to-make snack combines crispy cereal, melted chocolate, peanut butter, and powdered sugar for a sweet and crunchy mix that everyone will love. Whether you’re making it for a Christmas party, a holiday movie night, or simply as a fun treat for the family, this classic holiday snack is sure to be a hit. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it’s also a no-bake recipe that comes together in just minutes.
I first discovered Reindeer Chow during a Christmas cookie swap, and after just one bite, I knew it was going to be a holiday staple in my home. It has the perfect balance of chocolatey sweetness and crunch, making it one of those snacks you just can’t stop eating. Plus, it’s a great recipe to make with kids because they love shaking the bag of powdered sugar to coat the cereal! Now, I make it every holiday season, and it always brings back warm memories of festive fun.
Why You’ll Love This Reindeer Chow Recipe
- Quick and Easy – This no-bake recipe takes just 15 minutes to prepare.
- Perfect for Gifting – Package it in festive bags or jars for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Great for Holiday Parties – It’s a crowd-pleasing treat that everyone will love.
- Customizable – You can add different mix-ins to make it your own.
Ingredients Notes
To make this classic holiday snack mix, you’ll need:
- Chex Cereal – Rice or corn Chex cereal works best for that perfect crispy texture.
- Chocolate Chips – Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips add the perfect sweetness.
- Peanut Butter – Creamy peanut butter helps bind the ingredients and adds flavor.
- Butter – A little butter makes the chocolate mixture smoother and richer.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
- Powdered Sugar – Coats the cereal, giving it a snowy, festive look.
- M&Ms and Pretzels – These optional mix-ins add extra crunch and color.
How To Make Reindeer Chow
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate and Peanut Butter
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is fully melted and smooth (about 1 to 1.5 minutes total).
- Stir in the vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 2: Coat the Chex Cereal
- Place the Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the melted chocolate and peanut butter mixture over the cereal.
- Use a spatula or large spoon to gently toss the cereal, ensuring that every piece is well-coated. Be careful not to break the cereal pieces.
Step 3: Add the Powdered Sugar
- Transfer the coated cereal into a large zip-top bag or a large container with a lid.
- Add the powdered sugar, seal the bag or container, and shake vigorously until all the cereal pieces are coated.
- If using a container, you can also stir the mixture with a large spoon to distribute the sugar evenly.
Step 4: Mix in the Extras
- Pour the coated cereal into a large bowl.
- Add the red and green M&M’s, mini pretzels, white chocolate chips, and holiday sprinkles.
- Gently toss everything together to evenly distribute the ingredients.
Step 5: Let It Set and Serve
- Spread the Reindeer Chow onto a parchment-lined baking sheet to let it set for about 15-20 minutes. This helps prevent clumping.
- Once set, transfer the mix into a serving bowl or store it in an airtight container.
- Serve and enjoy this festive treat with family and friends!
Pro Tips for the Best Reindeer Chow
- Avoid overheating the chocolate – Stir frequently while microwaving to prevent it from burning.
- Use fresh ingredients – High-quality peanut butter and chocolate will enhance the taste.
- Customize your mix – Try adding other holiday candies, nuts, or different types of cereal for variety.
- Make a big batch – This snack is great for gifting in decorative bags or jars.
Storage Options
Proper storage is key to keeping your Reindeer Chow fresh, crunchy, and delicious for as long as possible. Since this festive snack mix contains a combination of coated cereal, chocolate, and mix-ins like M&M’s and pretzels, it’s important to store it correctly to maintain its texture and flavor. Below are some effective storage options, along with tips on how to keep your Reindeer Chow tasting its best.
1. Storing at Room Temperature (Best for Short-Term Storage)
Reindeer Chow is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored at room temperature for up to 7 days if kept in an airtight container. Here’s how:
- Use a large, airtight container or resealable zip-top bags to prevent exposure to air and moisture.
- Store the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Excess heat can cause the chocolate to melt, making the mix sticky and clumpy.
- If you live in a humid environment, consider adding a silica gel packet (like the ones found in snack packages) inside the container to absorb excess moisture and keep the mix crispy.
2. Refrigerating Reindeer Chow (Extending Freshness up to 2 Weeks)
If you need to store your Reindeer Chow for longer than a week, refrigeration is a great option:
- Place the snack mix in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing other food odors from the fridge.
- Refrigeration can slightly harden the chocolate coating, but leaving it at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving will bring back its perfect texture.
- Avoid storing it in a paper bag or loosely sealed container, as this can lead to moisture absorption and make the cereal and pretzels lose their crunch.
3. Freezing Reindeer Chow (Best for Long-Term Storage – Up to 3 Months)
For those who like to plan ahead, freezing Reindeer Chow is an excellent way to make large batches and keep them fresh for the entire holiday season:
- Use a freezer-safe zip-top bag or an airtight container to store the mix.
- Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container with the date so you know when you made the batch.
- To serve, remove the Reindeer Chow from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before eating. This allows the chocolate to soften and the flavors to balance out again.
Storage Tips for Keeping Reindeer Chow Fresh
- Keep it dry – Moisture is the enemy of crispy cereal and pretzels, so always store Reindeer Chow in airtight containers.
- Avoid temperature fluctuations – Repeatedly taking it in and out of the fridge or freezer can cause condensation, which may lead to sogginess.
- Use portioned storage – If you plan on grabbing small amounts frequently, consider dividing the batch into smaller containers or bags to avoid opening and closing one large container multiple times.
Variations and Substitutions
- Nut-Free Option: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or almond butter.
- Chocolate Lovers: Use a combination of milk and dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- More Mix-Ins: Add mini marshmallows, crushed candy canes, or coconut flakes for extra holiday flair.
- Healthier Alternative: Use dark chocolate and reduce the powdered sugar for a slightly healthier version.
Conclusion
Reindeer Chow is the ultimate holiday treat that combines the best flavors and textures into one festive snack. With its easy preparation, simple ingredients, and endless customization options, it’s no wonder this holiday snack is a favorite in so many households. Whether you’re making it for a party, as a holiday gift, or just to enjoy at home, this sweet and crunchy mix is sure to bring joy to your season. Give this recipe a try and share the holiday cheer with family and friends!