Introduction

Discover Caramel Apple Puppy Chow, an irresistible snack that marries the classic fall flavors of crisp apples and gooey caramel with the delightful crunch of Chex cereal. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for gatherings or a cozy evening, delivering a sweet, crunchy, and utterly irresistible experience.

The image shows a white bowl full of small, square caramel candies covered with a light dusting of powdered sugar. Each candy has a rough, slightly bumpy surface and a light brown color from the caramel inside, some of which is oozing out. The candies are piled high, and some pieces are scattered outside the bowl. The background is a white marbled texture, softly blurred to keep the focus on the candies. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

9 cups Rice Chex or Corn Chex cereal (approximately one 12.8 oz box)
1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
1 cup soft caramel bits or unwrapped soft caramel candies (about 11 oz)
½ cup smooth apple butter
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or 1½ teaspoons apple pie spice)
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup white chocolate chips (good quality)
3-4 cups powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
Optional mix-ins:
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- ½ cup dried apple pieces, finely diced
- 1 cup mini pretzel twists

Instructions

Step 1: Place 9 cups of Rice Chex or Corn Chex cereal into a very large mixing bowl to allow gentle mixing without crushing.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan over low to medium-low heat (or in the microwave in 30-second intervals), melt 1 cup unsalted butter and 1 cup caramel bits, stirring frequently until smooth.
Step 3: Remove from heat and stir in ½ cup smooth apple butter, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or apple pie spice), and ¼ teaspoon salt until the mixture is thick, glossy, and aromatic.
Step 4: While the mixture is still warm, add 1 cup white chocolate chips and stir continuously until fully melted and incorporated.
Step 5: Immediately pour the warm caramel apple coating over the cereal. Gently fold with a spatula or large spoon to coat every piece evenly without crushing the cereal.
Step 6: Divide the coated cereal evenly between two large resealable plastic bags. Add 1½ to 2 cups of powdered sugar to each bag, seal tightly after removing excess air, and shake vigorously for 2-3 minutes until the cereal is fully coated in powdered sugar.
Step 7: If using, add optional mix-ins (chopped nuts, dried apples, mini pretzels) to the bags, reseal, and shake gently for 30 seconds to 1 minute to distribute and lightly coat.
Step 8: Spread the finished puppy chow onto parchment-lined baking sheets or a clean surface in a single even layer. Allow to cool completely at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes to set and develop crunch.
Step 9: Once cooled, break apart any clusters gently. Transfer to an airtight container for storage or serving.

Tips & Variations

Use a very large mixing bowl to avoid crushing the cereal while coating.
Try substituting apple pie spice for cinnamon for a richer autumn flavor.
Add extra texture by mixing in toasted pecans or walnuts and dried apple pieces.
Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the cooled puppy chow for an indulgent touch.
Shake gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece is fully coated in powdered sugar without clumping.

Storage

Store your Caramel Apple Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Make sure the treat is completely cooled and set before storing to maintain its signature crunch. If needed, you can gently break apart any clumps before serving. No reheating is necessary—just enjoy as a crunchy, sweet snack!

How to Serve

The image shows a white bowl full of small square-shaped treats with a light brown color. Each piece is covered in white powdered sugar, giving a soft and powdery texture on top. Some pieces have smooth caramel oozing out slightly, creating a glossy and sticky layer that contrasts with the dry powdered sugar. The treats have a rough texture with visible small nooks and bumps, stacked closely inside the bowl and spilling out onto a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cereal?

Yes, Rice Chex or Corn Chex are preferred for their light crunch and ability to hold coatings well, but you can experiment with other sturdy cereals. Avoid anything too fragile or sweetened already, as it may affect texture and flavor.

How do I prevent the caramel from burning during melting?

Use low to medium-low heat on the stove and stir frequently, or melt in short 30-second microwave bursts with stirring in between. Patience is key to avoid seizing or burning the caramel.