Pistachio Puppy Chow Recipe
Introduction
Pistachio Puppy Chow is a delightful twist on the classic snack mix, featuring the unique flavor of pistachio pudding and a hint of almond. This sweet, crunchy treat is perfect for parties, snacking, or gifting, combining rice Chex cereal coated in creamy white chocolate and dusted with a powdered sugar blend.

Ingredients
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar
- 3.4-oz box instant pistachio pudding mix
- 1/4 tsp almond extract
- 5 cups rice Chex cereal
- 2 cups white chocolate melting wafers
- 1/4 cup butter, cut into pieces
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl and set aside. Line a work surface or baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper.
- Step 2: In a gallon-size zip-top bag, combine the powdered sugar and dry pistachio pudding mix. Seal the bag and shake well to mix thoroughly.
- Step 3: Add the almond extract to the bag, seal, and shake again to evenly incorporate the flavor.
- Step 4: In a separate medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate wafers and butter. Microwave for 30 seconds, then stir. Continue microwaving in 15-second increments, stirring each time, until melted and smooth.
- Step 5: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the Chex cereal in the large bowl. Gently stir to coat the cereal completely, working quickly before the chocolate starts to harden.
- Step 6: Transfer the coated cereal mixture into the zip-top bag with the powdered sugar and pudding mix. Seal the bag and shake well to coat all the cereal pieces evenly.
- Step 7: Spread the coated cereal out onto the lined work surface to cool completely before serving or storing.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, add chopped roasted pistachios after coating for a nutty texture.
- Use almond bark as a substitute if white chocolate wafers are unavailable.
- If you prefer a stronger almond flavor, increase the almond extract slightly but avoid overpowering the pistachio taste.
Storage
Store Pistachio Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To refresh the crunch, spread it out on a baking sheet and warm it slightly in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate or dark chocolate instead of white chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute milk or dark chocolate, but keep in mind the flavor profile will change. White chocolate complements the pistachio and almond flavors best, offering a smooth, sweet base.
Is there a way to make this recipe nut-free?
The recipe naturally contains almond extract and pistachio pudding mix, both deriving from nuts. For a nut-free version, consider using a vanilla pudding mix and omit almond extract, though the flavor will differ from the original.
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Pistachio Puppy Chow Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
This Pistachio Puppy Chow is a delightful twist on the classic snack mix, featuring the nutty flavor of pistachio pudding and almond extract, combined with crunchy rice Chex cereal and sweet white chocolate. Perfect for parties or a quick sweet treat, this no-bake recipe is easy to prepare and irresistibly tasty.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar
- 3.4-oz box instant pistachio pudding mix
- 1/4 tsp almond extract
- 5 cups rice Chex cereal
Wet Ingredients
- 2 cups white chocolate melting wafers
- 1/4 cup butter, cut into pieces
Instructions
- Prepare Cereal: Place 5 cups of rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl and set it aside. Line a work surface or baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper for later use.
- Mix Sugar and Pudding: In a gallon-size zip-top bag, combine 2/3 cup powdered sugar and the 3.4-oz box of instant pistachio pudding mix. Seal the bag and shake well to evenly mix the two ingredients.
- Add Almond Extract: Add 1/4 teaspoon almond extract to the sugar and pudding mixture inside the sealed bag. Seal again and shake to incorporate the extract throughout the mixture.
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine 2 cups white chocolate melting wafers and 1/4 cup butter cut into pieces. Microwave on high for 30 seconds, then stir. Continue microwaving in 15-second increments, stirring each time, until the mixture is melted and smooth.
- Coat Cereal: Pour the melted white chocolate and butter mixture over the cereal in the large mixing bowl. Gently stir to coat all the cereal pieces evenly, working quickly before the chocolate hardens.
- Coat with Sugar Mixture: Transfer the chocolate-coated cereal mixture into the zip-top bag containing the sugar and pudding mix. Seal the bag and shake it to thoroughly coat the cereal with the pistachio sugar mixture.
- Cool and Set: Spread the coated cereal evenly onto the prepared parchment-lined surface. Allow it to cool completely so the coating sets before serving or storing.
Notes
- Make sure to stir the chocolate and butter mixture thoroughly to avoid burning or overheating in the microwave.
- Shaking the cereal in the sugar mixture while warm helps it stick better for a more even coating.
- Store the finished puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- You can substitute almond extract with vanilla extract if almond flavor is not preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Pistachio Puppy Chow, Puppy Chow, Chex Mix Recipe, Pistachio Snack Mix, White Chocolate Puppy Chow, No-Bake Snack

