Reindeer Chow is the ultimate sweet-and-salty Christmas snack mix you’ll want to make on repeat. It’s crunchy, creamy, and coated in white chocolate. Perfect for gifting, movie nights, or holiday parties, plus, it’s ready in minutes.
Table of Contents
What is Reindeer Chow?
Reindeer Chow is a festive, no-bake holiday mix made from Chex cereal, popcorn, pretzels, and peanuts all coated in smooth white chocolate. It’s a snack that brings together everything we love about Christmas treats—color, crunch, and fun. This mix goes by other names too, like Puppy Chow, Muddy Buddies, or Monkey Munch. The best part? It’s totally customizable. You can make it gluten-free, dairy-free, or nut-free without losing any of its sweet holiday charm. It’s also ideal for last-minute gatherings since it sets fast and stores easily. Whether you’re filling gift bags, creating a party snack table, or just curling up with a Christmas movie, this Reindeer Chow adds instant cheer.
Why You’ll Love This Reindeer Chow
You’ll love how quick this Reindeer Chow comes together—just five minutes of prep and zero baking. It’s kid-approved, party-perfect, and easy to adapt for any dietary need. The sweet white chocolate perfectly balances the salty crunch of Chex, pretzels, and popcorn. Christmas sprinkles make every handful feel like a winter celebration. Plus, it’s one of those treats that looks as good as it tastes, which makes it perfect for edible gifts or snack tins.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this magical mix, you’ll need simple pantry staples. Chex mix gives that signature crunch; use gluten-free if needed. Popcorn adds a light, airy bite—freshly popped is best. Pretzels bring the salty balance, and you can choose sticks or twists. Add dry roasted peanuts for extra crunch or swap for almonds or seeds if you prefer nut-free. The magic happens when you melt white chocolate with a bit of coconut oil, creating a silky coating that hugs every piece. Finally, toss in Christmas sprinkles for sparkle and color. If you’re making this vegan, go for dairy-free chocolate and refined coconut oil to avoid coconut flavor.
How to Make Reindeer Chow
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine Chex mix, popcorn, pretzels, and peanuts. Stir gently so everything’s evenly mixed.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
Melt white chocolate with coconut oil until smooth. You can use the microwave in 30-second bursts or a stovetop double boiler—just stir often so it doesn’t burn.
Step 3: Combine and Coat
Pour the melted chocolate over your snack mix. Stir well until every piece is glossy and coated. This is where the magic starts to happen!
Step 4: Add Sprinkles and Set
Fold in your Christmas sprinkles. Then spread the coated mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for 30 minutes until it’s firm.
Step 5: Break and Serve
Once chilled, break it into chunks and serve in bowls or pack into festive bags for gifting.
Expert Tips for the Best Reindeer Chow
Customize this mix with what you have. Try rice cereal, almonds, or even crushed candy canes. Always add sprinkles after coating, or the colors might bleed. You can also drizzle milk or dark chocolate for a twist. For parties, portion it into small cups or jars. It also pairs perfectly with other desserts like a festive shortbread cookie recipe or snowy white chocolate holiday bark.
Storage and Shelf Life
Keep Reindeer Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer freshness, store it in the fridge. Just note that chilling makes it slightly firmer but still crunchy. Avoid humid places so it stays crisp.
Flavor and Texture Notes
Every bite brings a mix of sweet, creamy white chocolate and a salty, crunchy base. The texture feels like clusters of granola, but softer and more decadent. It’s festive, cozy, and totally addictive.
Recipe Variations
Give it extra flair by adding crushed candy canes, red and green M&M’s, or mini marshmallows. For a nut-free version, replace peanuts with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. If you prefer a vegan version, use dairy-free chocolate and coconut oil.
Related Recipes to Try
- Gluten-free Christmas dessert bars
- Festive gingerbread cheesecake
- Magical eggnog Christmas cake
- Snowy white chocolate holiday bark
- Festive shortbread cookie recipe
- Easy Christmas cookie lasagna
Frequently Asked Questions
What is reindeer chow?
It’s a no-bake Christmas snack mix made from cereal, popcorn, pretzels, and chocolate—sweet, crunchy, and perfect for the holidays.
What is in reindeer mix?
Chex mix, popcorn, pretzels, peanuts, white chocolate, and sprinkles. You can customize it with candy or marshmallows too.
Can you freeze reindeer chow?
Yes, freeze it in airtight bags for up to 3 months. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best crunch.
What is another name for reindeer chow?
It’s also called Puppy Chow, Muddy Buddies, or Monkey Munch depending on the version and coating.
Conclusion
Reindeer Chow is one of those recipes that brings instant joy with minimal effort. It’s festive, quick, and endlessly customizable—perfect for snacking, gifting, or sharing at parties. Once you make it, you’ll see why it’s a holiday favorite. Share your version on Pinterest and spread the cheer!
Print
Reindeer Chow (Christmas Snack Mix Recipe)
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 cups 1x
Description
Reindeer Chow is a festive, no-bake Christmas snack mix with sweet white chocolate, salty crunch, and colorful sprinkles. It’s quick to make, perfect for gifting, and kid-approved.
Ingredients
2 cups Chex mix (use certified gluten free if needed)
2 cups popcorn (freshly popped or preferred type)
2 cups pretzels (use gluten free if needed; sticks or twists)
1/2 cup dry roasted peanuts (unsalted; omit for peanut allergy)
9 oz white chocolate (dairy free if desired)
1 tablespoon coconut oil (refined if no coconut flavor is preferred)
Christmas sprinkles
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine Chex mix, popcorn, pretzels, and peanuts.
2. Melt white chocolate with coconut oil until smooth using the microwave or a double boiler.
3. Pour melted chocolate over the mix and stir to coat thoroughly.
4. Gently fold in Christmas sprinkles and any other desired additions.
5. Spread mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until fully set.
7. Once chilled, break into pieces and serve.
Notes
Customize add-ins with what you have on hand, such as rice cereal or almonds.
Add sprinkles or candy after coating to prevent color bleeding.
Allergy-friendly: gluten free, dairy free, egg free, vegan adaptable.
Yield: 8 cups. Texture: chunky, coated, similar to granola. Flavor: sweet with creamy white chocolate and salty snack mix.
Storage: keep in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Christmas Dessert Recipes
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
