First Step: PREPARE THE BASE

1. Measure the Cereal: Pour the 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl. Make sure to set this aside to ensure your coating mixture is ready when it’s time to toss it together.
2. Melt the Peanut Butter, Butter, and Chocolate: In a medium saucepan, combine the peanut butter, chocolate chips, and unsalted butter. Stir constantly over low heat until the mixture is smooth and melted. Once fully melted, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Coat the Cereal: Pour the melted chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Gently stir to coat the cereal evenly, making sure each piece is covered with the peanut butter-chocolate goodness.

Second Step: COAT WITH POWDERED SUGAR

1. Prepare a Large Bag or Bowl: In a large resealable plastic bag, add 1 ½ cups of powdered sugar. You can also use a large bowl if you prefer to mix manually.
2. Toss the Cereal: Add the coated cereal into the bag (or bowl), seal it tightly, and shake vigorously until the cereal is completely coated in powdered sugar. If using a bowl, gently stir until the powdered sugar evenly coats all the pieces.
3. Spread on a Baking Sheet: Once the cereal is coated, spread it out on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper or wax paper. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to cool and set.

Third Step: ADD THE CHRISTMAS TWISTS

1. Add M&M’s and Marshmallows: After the cereal has cooled and the powdered sugar has set, gently fold in the red and green M&M’s and mini marshmallows. These festive additions not only make the mix more colorful but also add extra sweetness and texture.
2. Add Crushed Candy Canes: If using, sprinkle the crushed candy canes over the mix. The peppermint flavor pairs beautifully with the chocolate and peanut butter and gives the Puppy Chows that signature holiday twist.
3. Optional Sprinkles: For a little extra flair, you can add holiday-themed sprinkles to the mix for color and sparkle.

Final Step: COOL AND SERVE

1. Let the Mix Cool Completely: Allow the Puppy Chows to sit for about 20 minutes at room temperature to ensure everything is fully set and cooled down. This step will also prevent the M&M’s from melting into the mix.
2. Store or Serve: Once cooled, you can serve the Puppy Chows in a large bowl at your holiday party, package them up as gifts, or simply snack on them at home. To store, keep the Puppy Chows in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
3. Gift it: Puppy Chows make great homemade gifts. Package them in festive tins, mason jars, or treat bags and add a ribbon or personalized tag for a thoughtful and delicious present. These treats are perfect for teachers, neighbors, and coworkers.