Gluten Free Puppy Chow is an easy, six-ingredient snack that comes together in minutes. Also known as Muddy Buddies, this gluten- and dairy-free version is a family favorite and perfect for kids to help make.
Reasons to make this treat:
- Kid-friendly and fun to prepare together.
- Uses common pantry ingredients and is quick to assemble.
- No baking required—no oven needed.
- Versatile for year-round snacking and seasonal gifting.
What you need to make Muddy Buddies
- Gluten Free Rice Chex cereal — choose a certified gluten-free Rice Chex.
- Powdered sugar
- Peanut butter (creamy works best)
- Vanilla extract
- Dairy free chocolate chips — use a dairy- and gluten-free semi-sweet variety.
- Dairy free butter — a plant-based butter substitute.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Steps to make gluten free puppy chow
Start by melting the dairy-free chocolate chips, peanut butter, and dairy-free butter together over low heat, stirring frequently until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla. Pour the chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the Rice Chex cereal and gently toss or stir to coat evenly.
Transfer the coated cereal to a large resealable plastic bag, add the powdered sugar, and shake until each piece is well coated. Spread the finished puppy chow on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool and set before serving.
Variations
- Halloween: Mix in candy corn, mini marshmallows, or extra chunks of dairy-free chocolate for a festive touch.
- Christmas: Add crushed candy canes or combine this puppy chow with other seasonal snacks for a holiday mix.
The base recipe is rich and satisfying on its own, but you can customize it with mix-ins — dried fruit, chopped nuts (if tolerated), or festive candies work well.
Puppy Chow looks charming in holiday tins or treat bags, making it a convenient and crowd-pleasing homemade gift.
Storage
Store puppy chow in an airtight container. If you plan to eat it within a few days, it can be kept at room temperature; for longer storage, refrigerate. Properly stored, it will keep for several weeks.
More delicious gluten- and dairy-free desserts
- Crunchy crock-pot Chex mix — a great snack for game nights and road trips.
- Fudgy brownie cookies — bite-size brownies with the chewy corner-piece texture.
- Lemon streusel bars — tangy lemon bars topped with a buttery streusel.
Gluten and Dairy Free Puppy Chow
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Ingredients
- 1 cup gluten- and dairy-free semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup dairy-free butter
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 9 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 2½–3 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
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Over low heat, melt and combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and dairy-free butter in a saucepan, stirring frequently until smooth.
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Place the Rice Chex cereal in a large container with a lid.
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Stir the vanilla into the melted chocolate mixture until combined.
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Pour the chocolate mixture over the cereal, seal the container, and gently shake and turn it for several minutes until the cereal is evenly coated.
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Transfer the coated cereal to a gallon-size freezer bag, add the powdered sugar, and shake to coat thoroughly. Spread on a parchment-lined cookie sheet and let cool for about 15 minutes.
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Store in an airtight container. Keep at room temperature if eating within a few days; otherwise refrigerate for longer storage.
Nutrition
Nutritional Disclaimer
The nutritional facts provided are estimates. Actual values will vary based on the brands and ingredients you use. For precise information, calculate nutrition using your preferred tool and the specific products you choose.
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