If you’ve ever loved the crunchy, chocolaty, peanut buttery delight of classic puppy chow, wait until you try this amazing No-Bake Puppy Chow Bars Recipe. It takes all those nostalgic flavors and amps them up into easy-to-make, chewy, and irresistible bars that don’t require turning on the oven. Whether you’re craving a sweet treat to share or just something to nibble on during movie night, these bars bring together Rice Chex cereal, melted peanut butter and chocolate, mini marshmallows, and a dusting of confectioners’ sugar for an unbeatable combination that everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses just a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of taste and texture. From the crispy Rice Chex to the creamy peanut butter and luscious marshmallows, these essentials come together to deliver a bar that’s delightfully chewy with a touch of crunch and a smooth chocolatey finish.
- 7 cups Rice Chex cereal: Provides the light, crispy base that holds all the flavors beautifully.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Adds a rich, melty chocolate layer that’s irresistibly smooth.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (258g): Gives that classic, creamy peanut butter flavor binding the bars perfectly.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (57g): Adds richness and helps everything melt together seamlessly.
- 1 bag (10 oz) mini marshmallows: Brings sweetness and a soft, chewy texture contrast.
- ¼ cup confectioners’ sugar (31g): Coats the bars with a delicate sweetness and a pretty finish.
How to Make No-Bake Puppy Chow Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Lightly grease the parchment, so the bars won’t stick and come out in perfect slabs when ready to cut.
Step 2: Measure the Cereal
Place 7 cups of Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl. This crunchy cereal is the star of the show, providing a light structure that will soak up all the delicious coating without getting soggy.
Step 3: Melt the Coating Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine the unsalted butter, creamy peanut butter, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and mini marshmallows. Melt them together over low heat, stirring constantly to create a smooth, shiny mixture that will evenly coat your cereal for ultimate flavor.
Step 4: Combine Cereal and Coating
Pour the warm melted mixture over the cereal carefully, then gently fold it all together with a spatula until every piece of Rice Chex is coated in that luscious peanut butter chocolate marshmallow goodness. Be gentle but thorough to avoid breaking the cereal.
Step 5: Add the Powdered Sugar Coating
Transfer the coated cereal into a large resealable plastic bag. Add the confectioners’ sugar, seal the bag tightly, and shake vigorously for several minutes. This step adds a light, sweet coating that not only tastes delightful but also helps keep the bars from sticking together.
Step 6: Press and Chill
Pour the sugar-coated mixture into your prepared pan. Using the back of a spatula or clean hands, press down firmly and evenly to compact the cereal into a solid yet chewy bar form. Cover lightly and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 to 3 hours, or ideally overnight, until the bars set completely firm and easy to slice.
Step 7: Cut and Serve
Once chilled and firm, lift the entire slab out of the pan using the parchment paper edges. Place on a cutting board and slice into bars—typically 1×2 inch rectangles work perfectly. Serve and enjoy the sweet, nutty yumminess of these fun and easy No-Bake Puppy Chow Bars.
How to Serve No-Bake Puppy Chow Bars Recipe
Garnishes
These bars are delightful as is, but if you want to add a little extra flair, sprinkle some mini chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or even a drizzle of melted white chocolate on top. A dusting of extra confectioners’ sugar right before serving adds a pretty, snowy touch that makes them feel extra special.
Side Dishes
The chewy, sweet nature of Puppy Chow Bars pairs beautifully with a glass of cold milk, a cup of hot coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert pairing. For a light snack spread, serve alongside fresh fruit or yogurt to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap individual bars in colorful parchment paper tied with a ribbon to make adorable party favors or lunchbox treats. For parties, consider stacking bars on a tiered dessert stand or serving them in a large bowl with decorative spoons for guests to help themselves.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover No-Bake Puppy Chow Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain their chewy texture and prevent the chocolate from melting.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap bars individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze beautifully for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw at room temperature for about an hour before enjoying.
Reheating
These bars are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you want to soften them slightly, pop a bar in the microwave for about 10 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat, or the marshmallows might get too sticky and melty.
FAQs
Can I substitute crunchy peanut butter in this recipe?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a lovely texture contrast with little peanut bits throughout the bars, making each bite even more interesting. Just make sure to use creamy if you want a smoother bar.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes, Rice Chex is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check the packaging as some variations may contain gluten. This recipe is great for gluten-sensitive friends when using certified gluten-free cereal.
Can I use a different type of cereal?
You can try puffed rice or gluten-free cereal alternatives, but Rice Chex is ideal because it holds up well without getting soggy and mingles beautifully with the coating mixture.
What should I do if the mixture is too sticky?
If your mixture feels too sticky to work with, chilling it for 10–15 minutes before pressing into the pan can help. Also, pressing firmly will compact the bars better, easing handling.
How long do these bars last once made?
Stored in an airtight container, these bars stay fresh and delicious for up to a week. Their chewy texture is best enjoyed within the first few days after chilling.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the way the No-Bake Puppy Chow Bars Recipe brings together crunchy cereal, gooey marshmallows, peanut butter, and silky chocolate into one powerhouse treat. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a quick and satisfying dessert, or any time you need a little sweet pick-me-up. Give it a try—you’re going to fall in love with how simple ingredients come together to make such a memorable, crowd-pleasing snack!
Print
No-Bake Puppy Chow Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
No-Bake Puppy Chow Bars are a delicious, easy-to-make treat featuring crispy Rice Chex cereal coated in a smooth blend of peanut butter, chocolate, and marshmallows, all dusted with confectioners’ sugar and chilled to a firm, chewy perfection. Perfect for snack time or dessert without any oven baking required.
Ingredients
Cereal
- 7 cups Rice Chex cereal
Coating Mixture
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (258g)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (57g)
- 1 bag (10 oz) mini marshmallows
Finishing Touch
- ¼ cup confectioners’ sugar (31g)
Instructions
- Prepare Pan: Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to facilitate easy removal of the bars later. Lightly grease the parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Measure Cereal: Place 7 cups of Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl and set aside, preparing it for coating.
- Melt Coating Mixture: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine ¼ cup unsalted butter, 1 cup creamy peanut butter, 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, and a 10 oz bag of mini marshmallows. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. Remove from heat to avoid burning.
- Combine Cereal & Coating: Pour the warm melted mixture evenly over the Rice Chex cereal in the mixing bowl. Gently fold and toss with a spatula ensuring that every piece of cereal is thoroughly coated with the chocolate-peanut butter mixture.
- Powdered Sugar Coating: Transfer the coated cereal mixture to a large resealable plastic bag. Add ¼ cup confectioners’ sugar, seal the bag tightly, and shake vigorously for several minutes to lightly and evenly dust the cereal pieces.
- Press & Chill: Pour the sugar-coated mixture into the prepared pan. Using the back of a spatula or clean hands, firmly press and compress the mixture evenly into the pan. Cover lightly and refrigerate for at least 2 to 3 hours, preferably overnight, until the bars are firmly set.
- Cut & Serve: Once fully chilled and firm, use the parchment paper overhangs to lift the slab out of the pan onto a cutting board. Cut into 1×2 inch rectangle bars using a sharp knife. Serve and enjoy these chewy, sweet bars!
Notes
- You can substitute creamy peanut butter with natural or crunchy peanut butter, but it may slightly alter texture.
- Use semi-sweet chocolate chips for a balanced sweetness, but dark or milk chocolate can be used based on preference.
- If you prefer smaller or larger bars, adjust the cutting size accordingly.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week for best freshness.
- Make sure to shake the cereal and confectioners’ sugar well to ensure even coating and prevent clumps.
