Celebrate the luck of the Irish with this festive and addictive Saint Patrick’s Day Puppy Chow! This sweet snack mix combines creamy peanut butter, white chocolate, and a festive green hue for a treat that’s perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply enjoying the holiday spirit. Add a sprinkle of green and gold for extra magic!
What Is Saint Patrick’s Day Puppy Chow?
Saint Patrick’s Day Puppy Chow is a vibrant, green twist on the classic puppy chow (also known as muddy buddies). It features Rice Chex cereal coated in a mix of white chocolate, peanut butter, and green food coloring, then dusted with powdered sugar. The result is a sweet, crunchy, and visually festive snack perfect for celebrating March 17th.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: Requires only a few ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Festive and fun: Bright green color and optional sprinkles make it holiday-ready.
- Customizable: Add your favorite sprinkles or mix-ins to make it your own.
- Great for sharing: Perfect for parties, school events, or gifting.
Ingredients
- 6 cups (150 g) Rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup (175 g) white chocolate chips
- ½ cup (125 g) creamy peanut butter
- 2 tbsp (28 g) unsalted butter
- 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla extract
- 1½ cups (180 g) powdered sugar
- Green food coloring
- Green and gold sprinkles (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Mixture
- Place the Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips, peanut butter, and unsalted butter.
- Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and a few drops of green food coloring until you achieve the desired shade of green.
Coating the Cereal
- Pour the green mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Gently toss with a spatula to coat the cereal evenly without crushing it.
Adding the Powdered Sugar
- Transfer the coated cereal into a large zip-top bag. Add the powdered sugar.
- Seal the bag and shake vigorously until all cereal pieces are evenly coated.
Cooling and Decorating
- Spread the coated cereal onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Let it cool completely. For extra festivity, sprinkle with green and gold sprinkles while it’s still slightly sticky.

Serving Suggestions
Serve Saint Patrick’s Day Puppy Chow in a decorative bowl for a holiday party, or package it in clear bags tied with green ribbon for a fun gift. It pairs wonderfully with Irish coffee, hot cocoa, or a refreshing minty drink.
Storing and Freezing
Storage Tips
Store your puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze puppy chow in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Recipe Variations
- Nut-free version: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or cookie butter.
- Extra crunch: Add mini pretzels, crushed Oreos, or M&M’s in festive colors.
- Vegan-friendly: Use dairy-free white chocolate and plant-based butter.
FAQs
Can I use a different cereal?
Yes! While Rice Chex is traditional, Corn Chex or Crispix are great alternatives.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Saint Patrick’s Day Puppy Chow can be made 1-2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container.
How do I avoid crushing the cereal?
Gently fold the mixture and use a spatula with a soft touch to coat the cereal evenly without breaking it.
This Saint Patrick’s Day Puppy Chow is a fun and festive treat that will bring a little luck and a lot of smiles to your holiday celebration. Try this easy recipe and share the snackable joy with friends and family! If you love it as much as we do, leave a comment or share your creative variations. Happy St. Patrick’s Day! 🌈
Print
Saint Patrick’s Day Puppy Chow Recipe
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
This festive St. Patrick’s Day Puppy Chow is a sweet, crunchy treat made with Chex cereal, green candy melts, powdered sugar, and golden sprinkles. Perfect for parties or holiday snacking, it’s quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious!
Ingredients
- 6 cups Chex cereal (rice or corn)
- 1 cup green candy melts
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- Green and gold sprinkles for garnish
Instructions
- Melt the mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the green candy melts, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Coat the cereal: Pour the melted mixture over the Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl. Gently fold until all pieces are evenly coated.
- Add powdered sugar: Transfer the coated cereal to a large zip-top bag. Add the powdered sugar, seal the bag, and shake until fully coated.
- Decorate: Spread the puppy chow on a lined baking sheet and sprinkle with green and gold sprinkles while it’s still slightly warm.
- Cool and serve: Allow the mixture to cool completely before serving or storing in an airtight container.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Add chocolate chips or marshmallows for extra sweetness!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: ~250 per serving