Pistachio Puppy Chow is sweet, salty, and full of crunch — a fun twist on the classic treat.
It’s the kind of snack you throw together in 15 minutes and suddenly can’t stop eating.
I always make this around the holidays or for movie nights when everyone wants something sweet but not too heavy.
The soft green color from the pistachio pudding mix gives it a fun look, and the pistachio flavor is rich but not overpowering.
You’re gonna love how easy this one is.
What You’ll Need
- 6 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant pistachio pudding mix
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup crushed pistachios (optional)
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s just something nostalgic and comforting about puppy chow — it reminds me of after-school hangouts and snack tables at get-togethers. This pistachio version brings a little grown-up twist with buttery flavor and soft nuttiness, but it still feels like fun. Here’s what makes it a favorite in my house:
- Comes together in one bowl, one bag — no baking
- Sweet, crunchy, salty and melts in your mouth
- Unique flavor that still feels familiar
- Perfect for parties, road trips, or gifting
- You can double or triple it with no extra work
Makes
10 servings
Total Time
15 minutes
Macros (Per Serving – Approximate)
Calories: 220
Protein: 2g
Carbs: 29g
Fat: 11g
Sugar: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Instant pistachio pudding mix gives more than flavor — it also helps the coating stick to the cereal better thanks to the cornstarch in it.
- White chocolate melts smoothly with butter and holds the mix together without clumping.
- Rice Chex is the ideal base — the little ridges trap all the coating, and it stays crispy even after being tossed in chocolate.
Common Mistakes
- Overheating the chocolate — white chocolate can seize quickly. Always melt low and slow.
- Adding powdered sugar too soon — make sure the mix is slightly cooled or it’ll melt into the coating instead of creating that classic powdered look.
- Using too much pudding mix — stick to one box or it can become grainy.
What to Serve With
- Salty pretzels or popcorn for a sweet + salty snack mix
- A warm cup of coffee or chai latte
- Fresh fruit like strawberries or sliced apples
- A cheese board — it balances the sweetness perfectly
FAQ
Can I use other pudding flavors?
Yes! Try vanilla, white chocolate, or even banana for a different spin.
How long does this keep?
Up to 1 week in an airtight container at room temp.
Can I use a different cereal?
Sure! Crispix or Corn Chex work just as well.
Is this gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free Chex and pudding mix, yes.
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap white chocolate for almond bark or vanilla chips
- Add mini marshmallows or crushed freeze-dried raspberries
- Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a deeper nutty flavor
- Add M&Ms for color and crunch
- Skip the crushed pistachios if you don’t want nut pieces
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Spatula
- Gallon-size zip-top bag
- Measuring cups and spoons
Make Ahead Tips
- Make a big batch and store in zip-top bags for up to 5 days
- Let the coated cereal cool fully before storing to keep it crisp
- You can crush the pistachios ahead and store in an airtight container
How to Make Pistachio Puppy Chow
Step 1: Measure 6 cups of Rice Chex cereal
Add 6 cups of Rice Chex cereal to a large mixing bowl. Set aside.
Step 2: Melt white chocolate and butter
In a microwave-safe bowl, add 1 cup white chocolate chips and 1/4 cup unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth.
Step 3: Stir in pudding mix and vanilla
Once melted, stir in 1 (3.4 oz) box of pistachio pudding mix and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract until fully blended.
Step 4: Pour over cereal and mix
Pour the pistachio-coated mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Gently fold with a spatula until all pieces are coated.
Step 5: Shake with powdered sugar
Transfer the coated cereal to a large zip-top bag. Add 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, seal, and shake well until all the cereal is evenly coated.
Step 6: Add crushed pistachios (optional)
Open the bag and sprinkle in 1/4 cup crushed pistachios. Give it one last gentle shake or stir.
Step 7: Serve and enjoy
Pour into a serving bowl and enjoy right away or store in an airtight container.
Leftovers and Storage
- Store in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temp for up to 1 week
- Don’t refrigerate — it can make the cereal soggy
- Freeze in freezer bags for up to 1 month (thaw at room temp)
Time to Make It!
This Pistachio Puppy Chow is sweet, simple, and a total crowd-pleaser. I hope you give it a try — it’s a fun one to make and even more fun to eat. If you do make it, leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out or if you have any questions. I love hearing from you!
