Simplified Reindeer Chow Mix

Featured in: Sweet & Toasty Treats

This festive sweet snack combines crunchy cereal with smooth peanut butter and melted chocolate for a delightful treat. Coated in powdered sugar and topped with colorful candy and optional pretzels, it’s quick to prepare and perfect for sharing during the holidays. Nut-free variations can be made by swapping peanut butter with sunflower seed butter. Store in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness.

Updated on Tue, 25 Nov 2025 14:33:00 GMT
A large bowl of Simplified Reindeer Chow mix full of sweet, festive candies and cereal. Save
A large bowl of Simplified Reindeer Chow mix full of sweet, festive candies and cereal. | toastytongs.com

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

This snack mix quickly became a family favorite during holiday celebrations and is always requested as a gift.

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.
Homemade Simplified Reindeer Chow shows off perfectly coated, crunchy cereal ready to enjoy. Save
Homemade Simplified Reindeer Chow shows off perfectly coated, crunchy cereal ready to enjoy. | toastytongs.com

This recipe always brings joy as my kids help mix the ingredients and share the finished snack during holiday parties.

Notes

Add festive sprinkles for extra color and cheer at holiday gatherings.

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.

Close-up of golden, sweet Simplified Reindeer Chow loaded with chocolate pieces and crunchy pretzels. Save
Close-up of golden, sweet Simplified Reindeer Chow loaded with chocolate pieces and crunchy pretzels. | toastytongs.com

This quick and easy snack mix is a must-have for festive occasions and always pleases a crowd.

Recipe FAQ

What cereal works best for this snack?

Rice or corn-based cereals like Chex provide a perfect crunchy base that holds the coating well.

Can I substitute peanut butter for allergies?

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

How should the chocolate mixture be melted?

Melt chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter in 30-second microwave intervals, stirring until smooth to avoid burning.

Why is powdered sugar added after mixing?

Powdered sugar helps evenly coat the cereal mixture, adding sweetness and preventing clumping.

How long does this mix stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, it remains fresh for up to one week.

Simplified Reindeer Chow Mix

Festive sweet snack with crunchy cereal, chocolate, and peanut butter, perfect for holiday treats or gifting.

Prep duration
10 min
Cook duration
5 min
Complete duration
15 min
Created By Daniel Brooks


Skill Level Easy

Heritage American

Output 8 Portions

Dietary considerations Meat-Free

Components

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
03 1/2 cup mini pretzels (optional)

Directions

Phase 01

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

Phase 02

Coat Cereal: Add Chex cereal to the melted mixture. Gently fold with a spatula until the cereal is evenly coated.

Phase 03

Sugar Coating: Transfer the coated cereal to a large zip-top bag or lidded container. Add powdered sugar, seal, and shake thoroughly to ensure complete coverage.

Phase 04

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

Phase 05

Add Toppings and Serve: Once cooled, transfer the mixture into a serving bowl. Gently incorporate chocolate candies and mini pretzels, if desired.

Tools needed

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

Allergy details

Review each ingredient for potential allergens and consult with a healthcare professional if you're uncertain.
  • Contains peanuts and dairy.
  • Chocolate candies may contain or be processed with nuts, milk, or soy.

Nutritional information (per portion)

These values are approximate guidelines only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 320
  • Fats: 13 g
  • Carbohydrates: 48 g
  • Proteins: 4 g