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Caramel Apple Puppy Chow Recipe – Easy Snack Mix for Cozy Fall Parties

Caramel Apple Puppy Chow - featured image
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This Caramel Apple Puppy Chow is a quick and easy snack mix that combines the flavors of caramel, dried apples, and cinnamon sugar with crunchy rice cereal. Perfect for fall gatherings, potlucks, or cozy movie nights, it’s a crowd-pleasing treat that’s ready in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups rice square cereal (Chex or store brand)
  • 1 cup dried apples, diced
  • 1 cup caramel baking chips
  • 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries (optional)
  • 1/3 cup mini caramel candies (optional)

Instructions

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set out all ingredients. Measure everything in advance.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, add rice square cereal and diced dried apples. Add nuts or cranberries if using. Gently stir to combine.
  3. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine caramel baking chips, white chocolate chips, and unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring after each, until smooth (about 1–2 minutes total). Add sea salt and stir.
  4. Pour the warm caramel mixture over the cereal and apples. Use a spatula to gently fold until every piece is coated.
  5. In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Taste and adjust spice if desired.
  6. Transfer the coated cereal mix to a large zip-top bag or paper bag. Add the spiced sugar mixture. Seal and shake gently until all pieces are evenly coated.
  7. Spread the puppy chow onto the lined baking sheet. Let it cool for 15–20 minutes until the coating sets.
  8. Once cool, transfer to a serving bowl or airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to a week.

Notes

For gluten-free, use certified gluten-free cereal and caramel chips. Swap butter for coconut oil and use dairy-free chips for a vegan version. Shake the mix in a bag for even coating and let cool fully to avoid stickiness. Store in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze for up to a month.

Nutrition

Keywords: puppy chow, caramel apple, snack mix, fall recipe, party food, easy dessert, kid-friendly, gluten-free option, autumn snack, sweet treat

Find it online: https://avabake.com/caramel-apple-puppy-chow-recipe-easy-snack-mix-for-cozy-fall-parties/