Warm, sweet, and packed with cozy chai spice — this Chai Snickerdoodle Puppy Chow is one of those snacks you don’t stop eating by the handful.
It’s crispy, cinnamony, a little crunchy-sweet, and totally addictive.
If you’ve had regular puppy chow (or muddy buddies), just wait until you try this chai-spiced twist.
Perfect for the holidays, fall nights, or when you’re just craving something that feels a little special but super easy.
What You’ll Need
- 6 cups rice Chex cereal
- 1 ½ cups white chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons chai spice mix
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe was born on a cozy afternoon when I wanted something nostalgic but with a little grown-up twist. I had a fresh batch of chai spice mix and figured—why not toss it into puppy chow? That was a good day.
- Tastes like a chai latte and snickerdoodle had a crunchy baby
- Takes no time to make—no oven required
- Easy to double for sharing
- Keeps well (if it lasts!)
- Sweet, spiced, and snackable
Servings and Time
- Servings: Makes about 8 servings
- Prep + Cook Time: 15 minutes
Macros (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 290
- Carbs: 39g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 14g
- Sugar: 25g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
White chocolate acts as the glue here—it melts smooth and coats the Chex cereal perfectly. The chai spice infuses warmth, while the powdered and granulated sugar combo gives you that sweet, snickerdoodle-style dusting that sticks to the chocolate before it sets. Chex cereal holds the structure but stays light and crispy.
Common Mistakes
- Using too much chocolate: Makes it soggy and clumpy
- Skipping the chai spice: It’s the star—don’t skip it!
- Overmixing after coating: Stir gently or the cereal will break
- Not cooling enough: Warm chocolate will melt the sugar coating if added too soon
What to Serve With
- A cold glass of milk
- Hot chai latte or coffee
- Fresh fruit for a lighter pairing
- Perfect on a dessert board
FAQ
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! It keeps well in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Is it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free rice Chex and double-check your spice blend.
Can I use milk or dark chocolate?
You can, but the flavor will change. White chocolate gives it that “snickerdoodle” vibe.
Substitutions and Variations
- Use cinnamon sugar instead of chai for classic snickerdoodle flavor
- Swap white chocolate for almond bark
- Add crushed freeze-dried apples for a fruity twist
- Use cinnamon Chex for double spice
Make Ahead Tips
- You can melt the chocolate and prep the sugar mix in advance
- Store the coated cereal without sugar dusting, then toss right before serving for max crispiness
How to Make Chai Snickerdoodle Puppy Chow
Step 1: Melt the white chocolate and butter
Add 1 ½ cups white chocolate chips and 1 tablespoon unsalted butter to a medium glass bowl. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted.
Step 2: Stir in chai spice, cinnamon, and vanilla
To the melted chocolate, stir in 2 tablespoons chai spice mix, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until completely mixed.
Step 3: Pour over Chex cereal
Pour the spiced chocolate mixture over 6 cups rice Chex cereal in a large bowl. Use a spatula to gently fold until all pieces are evenly coated.
Step 4: Toss with sugars
In a large zip-top bag or bowl, combine ¾ cup powdered sugar and ¼ cup granulated sugar. Add the chocolate-coated cereal and shake or toss until well-coated.
Step 5: Let cool and serve
Spread the coated cereal out onto a baking sheet to cool and set completely, about 10 minutes. Transfer to a round bowl for serving.
Tools You’ll Need
- Microwave-safe mixing bowl
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large mixing bowl
- Zip-top bag or large container with lid
- Baking sheet
- Round bowl for serving
Leftovers and Storage
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For max crunch, avoid humid areas. You can also refrigerate for extra crisp texture but let it sit out for a few minutes before serving.
Wrap-Up
This Chai Snickerdoodle Puppy Chow is one of those recipes that hits every note—sweet, spicy, crunchy, and cozy. It’s the kind of treat you whip up in no time but feels like something special. If you try it, I’d love to hear how it went for you! Leave a comment and let me know, or ask any questions you’ve got. Happy snacking!
