Ingredients
Cereal Base:
3 cups Corn Chex
3 cups Rice Chex
2 cups Honey Nut Cheerios (optional, but adds a sweet crunch!)
Chocolate Mixture:
3 tablespoons unsalted butter (for richness)
½ cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy based on preference)
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for that classic chocolate flavor)
Coating:
1 ½ cups powdered sugar (for sweetness and a snowy appearance)
2 tablespoons cocoa powder (to enhance the chocolate flavor)
Add-Ins:
16 ounces Christmas M&Ms (for festive color and crunch)
2 cups mini peanut butter cups (a delightful surprise in every bite!)
4 cups pretzels (sticks or twists, for that salty-sweet balance)
Instructions
Prepare the Cereal Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Corn Chex, Rice Chex, and Honey Nut Cheerios. Gently stir the mixture to ensure an even distribution of the cereals. This mix will be the crunchy base for your Reindeer Chow.
Create the Chocolate Mixture:
In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter, chocolate chips, and peanut butter. Microwave this mixture for 30 seconds, then remove and stir. If the mixture isn’t fully melted, return it to the microwave for an additional 30 seconds. Continue stirring until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. The goal is a creamy, luscious chocolate blend that will coat the cereal beautifully.
Combine and Coat:
Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal mixture in the large bowl. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the chocolate into the cereal, ensuring that every piece is evenly coated. This step is crucial for that delicious chocolatey flavor in every bite!
Set Aside to Cool:
Allow the chocolate-coated cereal to sit for about 15 minutes. This will help the chocolate to firm up slightly, making the coating process easier.
Prepare the Coating:
In a large gallon-sized ziplock bag, combine the powdered sugar and cocoa powder. This mixture will give your Reindeer Chow a delightful sweet coating reminiscent of freshly fallen snow.
Coat the Cereal:
Once the chocolate-coated cereal has cooled slightly, add it to the ziplock bag. Seal the bag tightly, ensuring no air is trapped inside. Shake the bag gently to toss the cereal in the powdered sugar mixture until all pieces are thoroughly coated. This step adds sweetness and a fun texture to the treat!
Cool on Baking Sheet:
Carefully pour the coated cereal out onto a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool completely. This will prevent clumping and allow the coating to set.
Combine Add-Ins:
In a large serving bowl, combine the Christmas M&Ms, mini peanut butter cups, and pretzels. Gently add the cooled chocolate-coated cereal to the bowl. Using a spatula or your hands, carefully stir the mixture to combine all the ingredients. Be gentle to avoid crushing the cereal or pretzels.
Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is mixed together, your festive Reindeer Chow is ready to be served! Transfer it to smaller bowls or keep it in a large bowl for easy snacking. This treat is perfect for holiday gatherings, movie nights, or as a delightful gift for friends and family.
Tip: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. Enjoy the holiday spirit with this delicious and fun snack!
