This Cookie Butter Puppy Chow is hands-down one of the easiest and most addictive sweet snacks you’ll ever make.
It’s crispy, creamy, sweet, and a little salty—everything you want in a quick treat.
We make this every fall when cozy nights call for something crunchy and comforting.
The cookie butter gives it a deep, spiced flavor that takes regular puppy chow (or “Muddy Buddies”) to the next level.
Perfect for a movie night, game day snack board, or just because.
You don’t need to turn on the oven, and it’s ready in minutes.
Why I Love This Recipe
This one brings me back to college snack swaps and late nights at home when we just wanted something easy and sweet. The cookie butter makes it feel homemade but with a twist that surprises everyone.
- No baking, just melt and mix
- Great for sharing or gifting
- You only need 6 ingredients
- Crunchy, creamy, and sweet all at once
- The cookie butter gives it a cozy flavor that’s way better than peanut butter versions
What You’ll Need
- 5 cups rice square cereal (like Rice Chex)
- 1/2 cup cookie butter (such as Biscoff or Trader Joe’s Speculoos)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
Servings: 6
Total Time: 15 minutes
Macros (per serving – estimated)
- Calories: 310
- Fat: 15g
- Carbs: 42g
- Protein: 3g
- Sugar: 24g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The starch from the cereal helps the melted cookie butter and white chocolate cling to the surface. Powdered sugar sets on top and adds that iconic dry-touch finish without getting soggy. The salt balances all the sweetness, and butter helps make the coating glossy and smooth.
Common Mistakes
- Using too much powdered sugar: It clumps and hides the flavor.
- Not letting the coating cool slightly before shaking with sugar: If it’s too hot, it melts the sugar and turns sticky.
- Using a spoon to stir instead of folding gently: Cereal can break into crumbs.
- Skipping the salt: Just a pinch makes a huge difference in flavor.
What to Serve With
- A hot mug of chai or coffee
- Popcorn or trail mix on a snack board
- Cold milk or vanilla milkshake
- Mini marshmallows for added crunch
FAQ
Can I use peanut butter instead?
Yes, but it won’t have the same spiced cookie flavor. Still tasty though!
Is this gluten-free?
Only if your cereal and cookie butter are both certified gluten-free.
How long does it stay fresh?
Up to 1 week in an airtight container at room temp.
Can I freeze it?
Yes! Lay flat in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.
What’s the best cereal for this?
Rice Chex or Crispix are perfect because they hold their shape and coating well.
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap white chocolate chips for milk or dark chocolate chips
- Add mini pretzels or roasted peanuts
- Use cinnamon graham cereal instead of Rice Chex
- Mix in crushed Biscoff cookies for extra crunch
Tools Needed
- Medium microwave-safe bowl
- Rubber spatula
- Large mixing bowl with lid or a gallon-size zip-top bag
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sifter (for powdered sugar)
Make Ahead Tips
You can make this up to 3 days ahead—just store in a tightly sealed container. Do not refrigerate or it will get soft.
Recipe + Instructions
How to Make Cookie Butter Puppy Chow
Step 1: Measure the cereal
Pour 5 cups of Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl. Set aside.
Step 2: Melt the Coating
Add 1/2 cup cookie butter, 1/4 cup unsalted butter (cubed), and 1/2 cup white chocolate chips into a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring each time, until smooth and fully melted. Stir in 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt.
Step 3: Coat the Cereal
Pour 5 cups rice square cereal into a large mixing bowl. Slowly pour the warm melted mixture over the cereal. Gently fold with a spatula until every piece is coated.
Step 4: Add the Powdered Sugar
Sprinkle 1 cup powdered sugar over the coated cereal. Cover the bowl with a lid (or transfer to a large zip-top bag), and shake until all pieces are fully coated and no longer sticky.
Step 5: Serve
Pour finished Cookie Butter Puppy Chow into a round white bowl for serving. Dust with a bit more powdered sugar if you like and enjoy right away or store for later.
Leftovers & Storage
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Don’t refrigerate or it’ll lose its crunch. If it starts to feel soft, a quick shake with fresh powdered sugar can bring it back to life.
Wrap Up
This Cookie Butter Puppy Chow is simple, fast, and full of flavor. It’s a crowd-pleaser every time and perfect for when you want something homemade but stress-free. Try it out and let me know how yours turns out in the comments—I’d love to hear your twist on it!
