As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin their vibrant transformation, there’s no better time to indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of fall. Apple, cinnamon, and caramel are staples of the season, bringing to mind cozy afternoons, football games, and festive gatherings. If you’re looking for the perfect fall snack, this Caramel Apple Puppy Chow is about to become your new favorite treat! With all the flavors of a caramel apple packed into an easy-to-make snack, this puppy chow is a must-try.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Caramel Apple Puppy Chow (also known as Muddy Buddies) is an addicting treat that combines the crunchy texture of Chex cereal with the rich flavors of apple, cinnamon, and caramel. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering, need a fun after-school snack, or just want something delicious to munch on while watching your favorite football team, this recipe is a winner. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make with just a few ingredients.
Ingredients
- 5 cups Apple Cinnamon Chex cereal (or regular Chex cereal)
- 5 cups regular Chex cereal
- 1 cup vanilla cake mix
- 1/2 cup granola (cinnamon granola preferred, but plain works too)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup green candy melts
- 1 cup lime green candy melts
- 2 teaspoons shortening (divided)
- 1/2 cup hot caramel topping (such as Smucker’s Hot Caramel Topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chex Cereal
- Divide the Chex cereal into two separate medium-sized bowls. Place 5 cups in one bowl and 5 cups in another.
- Prepare the Coating Mixture
- In a large Ziplock bag, combine 1/2 cup vanilla cake mix, 1/4 cup granola, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Repeat in a second Ziplock bag. Set aside.
- Melt the Candy Coating
- In one microwave-safe bowl, melt the green candy melts with 1 teaspoon of shortening in 20-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth.
- In another microwave-safe bowl, melt the lime green candy melts with the remaining 1 teaspoon of shortening using the same method.
- Coat the Cereal
- Pour the melted green candy coating over the cereal in one of the bowls and gently stir until well-coated.
- Pour the melted lime green candy coating over the cereal in the second bowl and stir to coat evenly.
- Toss with Dry Mixture
- Transfer each bowl of coated cereal into the prepared Ziplock bags.
- Seal the bags and shake until the cereal is fully coated with the cinnamon cake mix and granola mixture.
- Combine and Add the Final Touch
- Pour the coated cereal from both bags into a large mixing bowl and gently mix to combine.
- Drizzle with hot caramel topping for that irresistible caramel apple flavor.
Notes
- If you can’t find Apple Cinnamon Chex, regular Chex cereal will work just fine. It won’t have as much of a cinnamon flavor, but it will still be delicious.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
- This recipe is perfect for fall parties, game-day snacks, or even packaged up as a fun seasonal gift!
Enjoy the Flavors of Fall
This Caramel Apple Puppy Chow is the ultimate fall treat—sweet, crunchy, and packed with seasonal flavors. Whether you’re enjoying it by yourself, sharing with friends, or making it for a special occasion, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite. Happy snacking!