Caramel Apple Puppy Chow Recipe

Introduction

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

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

1. Step 1: Pour 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl and set aside.
2. 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.
3. Step 3: Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt into the melted mixture.
4. Step 4: Pour the caramel mixture over the Chex and stir gently to coat evenly.
5. Step 5: In a small bowl, mix together apple pie spice, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the cereal and toss to coat completely.
7. Step 7: Fold in the crushed dried apple chips carefully until well distributed.
8. Step 8: Spread the mixture on parchment paper and let cool completely before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For an extra crunch, toast the Rice Chex cereal lightly before mixing.
• Substitute dried apple chips with dried cranberries or raisins for a different fruity note.
• Use a double boiler instead of the microwave to melt the white chocolate and caramel gently.
• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a deeper warm spice flavor.

Storage

Store the caramel apple puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain crispiness. If it softens, re-crisp it by spreading on a baking sheet and warming gently in a 250°F (120°C) oven for 5 minutes. Avoid refrigeration as it may cause the coating to become sticky.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without caramel bits?

Yes, you can substitute caramel bits with soft caramel candies melted in the microwave or on the stovetop. Just chop them finely so they melt evenly with the white chocolate chips.

What’s the best way to crush dried apple chips?

Place the dried apple chips in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush with a rolling pin or use your hands to break them into small pieces. Avoid pulverizing into powder to keep some texture in the mix.

Caramel Apple Puppy Chow Recipe

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Caramel Apple Puppy Chow is a delightful snack mix that combines the crunch of Rice Chex cereal with the rich sweetness of melted white chocolate and caramel, infused with warm apple pie spice. Finished with crushed dried apple chips, this treat perfectly balances sweet and spiced flavors, making it an irresistible fall-inspired snack.

• Author: Lily
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: About 10 cups 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Cereal

• 9 cups Rice Chex cereal

Chocolate and Caramel Coating

• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1 cup caramel bits
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Spiced Sugar Coating

• 1 tablespoon apple pie spice
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Additional

• 1/2 cup dried apple chips, crushed

Instructions

1. Prepare Cereal: Pour 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl and set aside to have it ready for coating.
2. Melt White Chocolate and Caramel: Combine white chocolate chips and caramel bits in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each session, until the mixture is melted and smooth.
3. Add Flavorings: Stir vanilla extract and a pinch of salt into the melted chocolate and caramel mixture to enhance the flavor profile.
4. Coat the Cereal: Pour the warm caramel mixture over the Rice Chex cereal and gently stir to coat the cereal evenly without breaking the pieces.
5. Prepare Spiced Sugar Mixture: In a small bowl, mix apple pie spice, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar thoroughly.
6. Add Sugar Coating: Sprinkle the spiced sugar mixture over the coated cereal and toss carefully until all pieces are completely covered.
7. Fold in Apple Chips: Gently fold in the crushed dried apple chips to add a fruity crunch to the mix.
8. Cool and Set: Spread the coated cereal mix onto parchment paper in an even layer and allow it to cool completely so the coating sets properly before serving.

Notes

• Ensure the chocolate and caramel mixture is not overheated to prevent burning or seizing.
• You can substitute dried apple chips with finely chopped dried apples if unavailable.
• For a slightly healthier version, reduce granulated sugar or use a sugar substitute.
• Store the finished puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• This snack is perfect for fall gatherings and makes a great homemade gift.

Keywords: caramel apple puppy chow, snack mix, caramel chex mix, fall snack, caramel apple recipe, white chocolate snack, chex cereal snack