This Pumpkin Spice Puppy Chow is everything I love about fall in one crunchy, sweet snack.
It’s got that cozy pumpkin pie spice flavor, a creamy white chocolate coating, and a powdered sugar finish that makes it totally addictive.
Whether you’re hosting friends, packing a treat bag, or just munching on the couch with a good show, this mix is always a hit.
I’ve made it every October for the past five years, and it disappears fast—so double the batch if you’re sharing!
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe brings me straight into fall mode. Every time I make it, it reminds me of football games, pumpkin patches, and cozy weekends.
- It’s quick, no-bake, and super easy to make
- Uses pantry staples I already have
- The pumpkin spice flavor is bold without being too sweet
- Perfect for parties or gifting in cute bags
- It stays crunchy and fresh for days
What You’ll Need
- 9 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1 ½ cups white chocolate chips
- ½ cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or butter)
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- Optional: Pinch of salt
Pro Tips
- Don’t overheat the white chocolate—low and slow is key
- Use a gallon-size Ziploc bag to shake on the sugar mess-free
- Let the mix cool completely before storing or bagging
- Add extra cinnamon if you like a stronger spice kick
- A silicone spatula works better than a spoon for gentle mixing
Tools Required
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium microwave-safe bowl
- Silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Gallon-sized Ziploc bag or large container with a lid
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap Rice Chex with Corn Chex or Crispix
- Use pumpkin-flavored baking chips instead of white chocolate
- Add crushed graham crackers or mini pretzels for extra crunch
- Use butter instead of coconut oil
- Mix in candy corn or M&Ms for a festive look
Make Ahead Tips
You can make this up to 5 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature, away from heat and humidity.
Steps to Make Pumpkin Spice Puppy Chow
Step 1: Measure the Chex cereal
Pour 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl. Set aside.
Step 2: Melt the white chocolate, pumpkin puree, and coconut oil
In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 ½ cups white chocolate chips, ½ cup pumpkin puree, and 1 tablespoon coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until melted and smooth (about 1–1½ minutes total).
Step 3: Add spices and vanilla
Stir 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract into the melted white chocolate mixture until fully combined.
Step 4: Pour the mixture over the cereal
Pour the warm spiced chocolate mixture over the 9 cups of Rice Chex in the large bowl. Use a silicone spatula to gently fold and coat the cereal evenly without breaking it.
Step 5: Coat with powdered sugar
Transfer the coated cereal into a large Ziploc bag. Add 1½ cups powdered sugar. Seal the bag and shake it until all the cereal is fully coated in sugar.
Step 6: Cool and serve
Spread the finished Pumpkin Spice Puppy Chow onto a baking sheet or parchment paper to cool completely. Once dry, transfer to a bowl or airtight container.
Servings and Cook Time
Makes: About 10 servings
Prep + Cook Time: 15 minutes active time, 30 minutes total including cooling
Macros Information (per serving – approx.)
- Calories: 280
- Carbs: 39g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 13g
- Sugar: 21g
Note: Macros may vary based on brands used
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The coconut oil helps the white chocolate melt smoothly and coat the cereal evenly. Pumpkin puree adds moisture and natural sweetness but also reduces the chocolate’s stiffness—so we balance it with enough powdered sugar to bring back that dry, crunchy coating. Pumpkin pie spice boosts flavor, and Chex cereal’s structure holds up under coating without getting soggy.
Common Mistakes
- Overheating the chocolate: Causes it to seize. Melt slowly in intervals.
- Using too much pumpkin puree: Makes it too wet and soggy.
- Not coating fast enough: Work quickly so the chocolate doesn’t set before sugar sticks.
- Overmixing the cereal: Can crush it. Fold gently.
- Skipping the cooling time: Makes it clump and stay sticky.
What to Serve With
- Warm apple cider
- Pumpkin cream cold brew
- Salted caramel popcorn
- A fall snack board with nuts and dried fruit
- Hot cocoa for a cozy movie night
FAQ
Can I make this without pumpkin puree?
Yes, just reduce the powdered sugar slightly and increase the vanilla for flavor.
How long does it stay fresh?
About 4–5 days in an airtight container at room temp.
Can I freeze puppy chow?
Yes, freeze in a sealed bag up to 2 months. Let it thaw uncovered for 15–20 minutes before serving.
Can I use almond bark instead of white chocolate?
Absolutely—it melts smoothly and works great here.
Can I use another cereal?
Yes! Crispix or Corn Chex both work well.
