Caramel Apple Puppy Chow Recipe
Introduction
Caramel Apple Puppy Chow is a delightful snack that combines the sweet warmth of caramel and white chocolate with the crispness of Rice Chex cereal. With a hint of apple pie spice and crunchy dried apple chips, this treat is perfect for fall or anytime you want a comforting, sweet bite.

Ingredients
- 9 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1 cup caramel bits
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon apple pie spice
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup dried apple chips, crushed
Instructions
- Step 1: Pour 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl and set aside.
- Step 2: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips and caramel bits. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until melted and smooth.
- Step 3: Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt into the melted mixture.
- Step 4: Pour the caramel mixture over the Rice Chex and stir gently to coat evenly.
- Step 5: In a small bowl, mix together apple pie spice, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar.
- Step 6: Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the coated cereal and toss carefully to cover completely.
- Step 7: Fold in the crushed dried apple chips for added texture and flavor.
- Step 8: Spread the mixture on parchment paper and allow it to cool completely before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a nutty twist, add toasted pecans or walnuts when folding in the dried apple chips.
- If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the granulated sugar to 2 tablespoons.
- Use a double boiler instead of a microwave to melt the chocolate and caramel for a smoother texture.
- Substitute dried apple chips with dried cranberries for a tart contrast.
Storage
Store the caramel apple puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want it crisper, keep it in the fridge but bring to room temperature before enjoying. Avoid humid environments to prevent sogginess.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use another type of cereal instead of Rice Chex?
Yes, you can substitute with other crispy cereals like Corn Chex or Wheat Chex. Just be sure they’re sturdy enough to hold the coating without becoming soggy.
How do I crush dried apple chips easily?
Place the dried apple chips in a zip-top bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or the bottom of a glass until they reach the desired size.
Print
Caramel Apple Puppy Chow Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: About 10 servings 1x
Description
Caramel Apple Puppy Chow is a delightful sweet snack mix combining crunchy Rice Chex cereal with melted white chocolate and caramel, infused with warm apple pie spice and crunchy dried apple chips. This easy no-bake treat is perfect for parties, snack time, or a cozy fall-inspired dessert.
Ingredients
Snack Mix
- 9 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1 cup caramel bits
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup dried apple chips, crushed
Coating Blend
- 1 tablespoon apple pie spice
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the base cereal mix: Pour 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl and set aside. This will be the crunchy base for your puppy chow.
- Melt the white chocolate and caramel: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup white chocolate chips and 1 cup caramel bits. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring well between each, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
- Add flavorings: Stir 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and a pinch of salt into the melted caramel and white chocolate mixture to enhance the flavor.
- Coat the cereal: Pour the melted caramel and chocolate mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Gently stir with a spatula or spoon until all the cereal pieces are evenly coated.
- Mix the sugar and spice blend: In a small bowl, thoroughly mix together 1 tablespoon apple pie spice, 1/4 cup powdered sugar, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar to create a warm spiced coating.
- Combine coating with cereal: Sprinkle the sugar and spice mixture over the coated cereal. Toss gently but thoroughly so every piece is well covered with the spiced sugar mixture.
- Add dried apple chips: Fold in 1/2 cup of crushed dried apple chips to add extra apple flavor and crisp texture throughout the puppy chow.
- Cool and set: Spread the coated cereal mixture evenly on a sheet of parchment paper. Allow it to cool and set completely before serving to ensure the coating hardens and the flavors meld.
Notes
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking during cooling and for easy cleanup.
- Crushing the dried apple chips helps distribute the apple flavor evenly.
- For a gluten-free version, be sure to use gluten-free Rice Chex cereal.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain freshness.
- This recipe does not require baking, making it quick and easy to prepare.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: caramel apple puppy chow, sweet snack mix, no bake dessert, white chocolate caramel snack, apple spice treat, Rice Chex snack

