Grinch Puppy Chow
Grinch Puppy Chow is the ultimate sweet and salty treat that’ll steal the show at any Christmas party!
With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a festive snack mix that’s perfect for holiday movie nights, cookie exchanges, or gifting to friends and neighbors.
This cheerful twist on a classic favorite captures all the holiday spirit—crunchy, chocolatey, and coated in sugary green goodness.
Whether you’re planning a Grinch-themed party or just want something fun to share with your family, this no-bake Christmas recipe is sure to spread some Christmas cheer (without growing your heart three sizes).
Is it Puppy Chow or Muddy Buddies?
They’re actually the same treat! “Muddy Buddies” is the trademarked name by General Mills, while “Puppy Chow” is the more common homemade term that’s been used for decades. The recipes are virtually identical.
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Before you start baking, be sure to check out my kitchen essentials for the tools and gadgets I use to make this recipe easier.
Scroll down to the bottom of the post to print the full recipe with step-by-step instructions.
How to Make Grinch Puppy Chow
Ready in just 10 minutes of prep, this festive treat serves about 20 and is perfect for holiday snacking!
- Stale Chex can make your puppy chow lose its crunch, so start with a fresh box for the best texture.
- Melt green candy melts and peanut butter together in the microwave until smooth, then pour over Chex cereal and stir to coat.
- Work quickly because once the candy melts and peanut butter are combined, mix them into the cereal right away before the coating sets.
- Divide the coated cereal between two bags with powdered sugar and shake until evenly covered.
- Let it set for about an hour, then mix in green M&Ms and red heart sprinkles before serving.
- Package Puppy Chow in clear treat bags, mason jars, or festive containers, then tie them with ribbon for a cute homemade gift idea.
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Rice Chex or Corn Chex are the most common choices because their crisp texture holds up well when coated in chocolate and powdered sugar. You can also use a mix of both for added crunch and flavor.
Yes! Muddy buddies freeze very well. Store them in an airtight, freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Let them come to room temperature before serving so the coating stays crisp.
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate or freeze them to maintain freshness.
Yes! Just add a few drops of green food coloring to get that signature Grinch hue.
No, it can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week. If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate it to keep it from melting.
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If you loved making this festive Grinch Puppy Chow, you’ll definitely want to check out these other fun Christmas ideas too!
- Cozy up with a mug of creamy green Grinch Hot Chocolate that’s as festive as it is delicious.
- Make your holiday movie nights extra magical with Grinch Hot Chocolate Bombs that burst with color and marshmallows.
- Add a little whimsy to your Christmas Party with themed snacks and drinks that are sure to make everyone smile.
- Keep the holiday cheer going with more Cute Christmas Desserts that are almost too adorable to eat!
Grinch Puppy Chow Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 cups Chex Cereal
- 1 cup Green Candy Melts
- ¼ cup Creamy Peanut Butter
- 2 cups Powdered Sugar
- Green M&M’s
- Red Heart Sprinkles
Instructions
- In a microwave safe bowl, heat the candy melts and peanut butter for 30 second increments, stirring well between, until melted.
- Pour over the cereal and mix to coat.
- Put 1 cup of powdered sugar into two separate plastic storage bags.
- Add half of the coated cereal to each bag.
- Shake the bags well to coat the cereal in sugar.
- Allow the coated cereal to set for 1 hour.
- Before serving, add M&M candies and heart sprinkles.