Name: Caramel Apple Puppy Chow
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 cups Rice Chex cereal; 1 cup white chocolate chips or white almond bark; 1/2 cup caramel bits (or chopped soft caramel candies); 2 packets apple cider drink mix (powdered); 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional); 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 cup chopped dried apple pieces (optional)

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Caramel apple puppy chow is a crunchy, sweet snack mix that tastes just like a caramel-dipped apple with a hint of cinnamon spice. I make this no-bake treat when I want something quick, festive, and incredibly addictive. Coated cereal pieces tossed in white chocolate, apple cider mix, caramel bits, and powdered sugar — it’s everything I love about fall in one easy-to-eat snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy it is to whip up this caramel apple puppy chow — no oven needed, and it comes together in under 20 minutes. The sweet apple-caramel flavor reminds me of cozy fall fairs, and the crunchy texture makes it impossible to stop snacking. It’s perfect for gifting, parties, or just keeping in a bowl on the counter for whenever I want a sweet bite. Caramel Apple Puppy Chow

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Rice Chex cereal
White chocolate chips or white almond bark
Caramel bits (or soft caramel candies)
Apple cider drink mix (powdered)
Ground cinnamon (optional for spice)
Powdered sugar
Dried apple pieces (optional for texture)

Directions

I start by placing the Rice Chex in a large mixing bowl and setting it aside.
In a microwave-safe bowl, I melt the white chocolate chips and caramel bits in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
I stir in the apple cider drink mix and a little cinnamon if I want extra spice.
Then I pour the melted mixture over the cereal and gently stir until every piece is coated.
I transfer the coated cereal into a large zip-top bag with powdered sugar and shake it until the pieces are fully coated.
Once it’s cooled, I sometimes toss in chopped dried apple pieces for a chewy twist.
I let it cool completely on parchment paper before storing or serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 8 cups of puppy chow, enough for 10–12 snack servings. It takes around 15 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cool completely, making the total time about 25 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes use cinnamon chips instead of caramel for a different fall flavor.
For a tangier kick, I add a little citric acid or lemon zest with the apple cider mix.
I’ve also made this with green apple-flavored drink mix for a fun twist.
If I want more color, I drizzle melted dark chocolate or caramel on top after it’s cooled.
I add pretzel sticks or roasted peanuts for extra crunch.

Storage/Reheating

I store this puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If it starts to lose its crunch, I spread it on a baking sheet and warm it slightly in a low oven (about 200°F for 5–7 minutes) to refresh it — just make sure not to melt the coating again. Caramel Apple Puppy Chow

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I usually make it a day or two before an event. It stores well and stays fresh if I keep it sealed tightly.

Can I use different cereal?

Absolutely. I stick with Rice Chex for the light texture, but Corn Chex or Crispix work well too.

What kind of apple cider mix should I use?

I use powdered apple cider drink mix — the kind that comes in packets. It gives the chow that distinct apple flavor.

Is this recipe safe for kids?

Yes, it’s a kid-friendly snack, but I always watch out for choking hazards with smaller kids and sticky caramel.

Can I freeze puppy chow?

I don’t usually freeze it because the coating can become sticky or soggy after thawing, but technically it can be frozen in a well-sealed bag for a few weeks.

Conclusion

Caramel apple puppy chow is one of my go-to fall snacks — easy, crunchy, sweet, and bursting with caramel apple flavor. I love how simple it is to make and how quickly it disappears from the snack bowl. Whether I’m packing treat bags or hosting friends, this recipe always gets rave reviews.