This Nutella Hazelnut Puppy Chow is a total snack game-changer. It’s crunchy, chocolatey, and a little bit fancy with those toasted hazelnuts.
I love making this when I need something fast, sweet, and super satisfying. It comes together in under 15 minutes and disappears even faster.
Whether you’re curled up on the couch or hosting a get-together, this is one of those treats that has people going back for handful after handful.
Why I Love This Recipe
I started making this version of Puppy Chow after a friend brought over a Nutella jar and said, “Do something with this.” So I did! It turned into this crunchy, chocolate-hazelnut dream that’s just the right amount of indulgent. It tastes like a mix between a Ferrero Rocher and your favorite childhood snack.
- Nutella gives it a creamy, rich flavor
- Hazelnuts add a little crunch and feel extra special
- It’s no-bake and ready in minutes
- You only need one bowl and one bag to mix
What You’ll Need
- 6 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1/2 cup Nutella
- 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup toasted hazelnuts, finely chopped
Makes
8 servings
Time
15 minutes start to finish
Macros (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 320
- Carbs: 36g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 18g
- Sugar: 21g
- Fiber: 2g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The warmth of melted butter and chocolate loosens up the Nutella, so it coats the cereal evenly without making it soggy. Powdered sugar acts like a dry barrier, locking in the gooey coating while giving it that iconic sweet crunch. Toasted hazelnuts add texture and balance out the sweetness.
Common Mistakes
- Using too much Nutella – It can get clumpy and soggy if you overdo it. Stick to the measurements.
- Not tossing quickly – Move fast when adding powdered sugar or it won’t coat evenly.
- Not toasting the hazelnuts – Skipping this step makes them taste bland. A quick toast brings out their nutty flavor.
Tools Required
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium microwave-safe bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Large zip-top bag or large container with lid
Pro Tips
- Toast hazelnuts in a dry pan on medium heat for about 5 minutes until fragrant. Let cool before chopping.
- Use a large bowl when mixing so the cereal doesn’t break.
- Work quickly once the Nutella mix is melted—Chex can start to get soft if it sits too long.
- Chill it for 10 minutes after mixing to let the coating set.
- Add an extra sprinkle of powdered sugar just before serving for extra crunch.
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap hazelnuts for almonds or peanuts
- Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet
- Add a pinch of sea salt for a sweet-salty flavor
- Use almond butter instead of Nutella for a twist
Make Ahead Tips
Make this up to 3 days ahead. Store in an airtight container at room temp. Don’t refrigerate or it’ll get soggy.
How to Make Nutella Hazelnut Puppy Chow
Step 1: Add cereal to a big bowl
Pour 6 cups of Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl. Set aside.
Step 2: Melt chocolate, butter, and Nutella
In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine 1/2 cup Nutella, 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, and 3 tablespoons unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until smooth. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla.
Step 3: Pour over cereal
Immediately pour the warm chocolate mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Gently stir with a rubber spatula until fully coated.
Step 4: Shake with powdered sugar
Transfer the coated cereal to a large zip-top bag or container with lid. Add 1 cup powdered sugar. Seal the bag and shake until every piece is coated.
Step 5: Add chopped toasted hazelnuts
Open the bag and add 1/2 cup finely chopped toasted hazelnuts. Reseal and give one final gentle shake.
Step 6: Let cool and serve
Pour into a serving bowl and let sit for 10 minutes so everything sets up. Serve and enjoy.
Leftovers and Storage
Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temp for up to 4 days. Don’t refrigerate—it’ll lose the crunch. If it gets soft, toss with a bit more powdered sugar.
What to Serve With
- A cup of coffee or hot chocolate
- Glass of cold milk
- Bowl of fresh berries for balance
- Great for dessert boards or party snack mixes
FAQ
Can I make this without nuts?
Yes! Just leave out the hazelnuts. You can add crushed pretzels or skip the extra mix-ins altogether.
Can I use a different cereal?
Crispix or Corn Chex work too, but Rice Chex gives the best texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just mix in two batches so everything gets coated evenly.
Final Thoughts
This Nutella Hazelnut Puppy Chow is one of those fast, no-stress recipes that always delivers. It’s perfect for sharing—or not sharing, no judgment here. If you give it a try, let me know how it turned out or ask any questions in the comments. Happy snacking!
