Introduction

Caramel Apple Puppy Chow is a delightful twist on a classic snack mix, combining the warmth of apple pie spice with creamy caramel and white chocolate. This sweet and crunchy treat is perfect for sharing or enjoying as a cozy snack any time of year.

A white plate holds a pile of square cereal pieces coated heavily in white powdered sugar, creating a soft, powdery texture on the surface. Mixed in are golden, toasted nuts scattered around and slightly beneath the cereal pieces, adding crunchy contrast. In the background on the white marbled surface, a red apple half is visible with its pale flesh showing, along with a few small round nuts casually placed around the plate. The overall look is cozy and sweet, with soft lighting that brings out the powder and textures. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

9 cups Rice Chex cereal
1 cup white chocolate chips
1 cup caramel bits (unwrapped caramel candies work too)
2 Tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt
1 Tbsp apple pie spice
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup dried apple chips, crushed into small pieces
Extra caramel bits for garnish (optional but recommended)

Instructions

Step 1: Measure the Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl to allow room for tossing later. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for cooling. Crush the dried apple chips by placing them in a ziplock bag and using a rolling pin or your hands to break them into small, crunchy pieces.
Step 2: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips, caramel bits, and unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted—about 90 seconds total. Stir in vanilla extract and salt once melted.
Step 3: Quickly pour the caramel-white chocolate mixture over the cereal. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the mixture to coat every piece evenly. Be careful not to stir too aggressively to avoid breaking the cereal.
Step 4: Combine the powdered sugar, granulated sugar, and apple pie spice in a large gallon-sized ziplock bag. Let the coated cereal cool for about 5 minutes, then add it to the bag. Seal and shake vigorously to coat all pieces with the sugar-spice mixture.
Step 5: Spread the coated cereal evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the crushed apple chips on top and let it set for 10 to 15 minutes. Add extra caramel bits on top if desired for an extra sweet touch.

Tips & Variations

For an even stronger apple flavor, try adding a small amount of apple cider powder to the coating mixture.
Use unwrapped caramel candies if you don’t have caramel bits—just chop them into smaller pieces before melting.
If you want a less sweet version, reduce the powdered sugar to 1/4 cup and omit the granulated sugar.

Storage

Store the Caramel Apple Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. It’s best enjoyed within a few days for maximum crunch. If it loses crispness, you can refresh with a brief bake in a low oven (250°F) for 5–7 minutes. Allow to cool completely before serving.

How to Serve

A white speckled bowl is full and piled high with a mixture of crunchy cereal pieces that have a light dusting of white powdered sugar, creating a soft, powdery texture across the top layer. Interspersed throughout are round, golden caramel-coated balls and some cereal pieces drizzled with a shiny caramel syrup, adding a sticky, glossy contrast to the matte powdered pieces. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with some cereal pieces and caramel balls scattered around it, creating a casual, inviting look. The background is softly blurred with green and white hues, giving focus to the detailed textures and warm colors of the cereal mixture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cereal?

Yes, you can substitute Rice Chex with any similar sturdy cereal like Corn Chex or Wheat Chex. Just make sure it has a neutral flavor and holds up well to coating.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Rice Chex cereal is naturally gluten-free, but double-check the packaging to ensure your ingredients, like caramel bits and apple chips, do not contain gluten or cross-contamination.