Caramel Apple Puppy Chow – Sweet, Crunchy & Irresistibly Cozy Fall Treat

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When the leaves start to fall and the air turns crisp, I crave cozy snacks that taste like autumn in every bite. This Caramel Apple Puppy Chow delivers all the warm, comforting flavors of caramel apples — but in a crunchy, bite-sized form. It’s a no-bake treat that’s equal parts sweet, spiced, and totally addictive. Perfect for Halloween parties, fall movie nights, or cozy evenings at home with a mug of cider.

Why You’ll Love It

  • Easy & No-Bake: Ready in just 15 minutes, no oven needed!
  • Sweet and Crunchy: Caramel and apple pie spice coat every Chex piece in irresistible flavor.
  • Perfectly Seasonal: The ultimate snack for fall gatherings and cozy nights in.
  • Kid-Approved: Sweet enough for kids, nostalgic for adults.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Stays fresh and crunchy for up to 5 days.

Time Needed

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 10

Ingredients

  • 9 cups Rice Chex cereal
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips
  • 1 cup caramel bits
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 tablespoon apple pie spice
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup crushed dried apple chips

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the BasePlace Rice Chex in a large mixing bowl — this will hold all your delicious caramel coating.
  2. Melt the CoatingIn a microwave-safe bowl, melt white chocolate chips and caramel bits in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth and glossy. Stir in vanilla and a pinch of salt.
  3. Coat the CerealPour the caramel-chocolate mix over the Chex. Toss gently until evenly coated.
  4. Add the Sugar MixCombine powdered sugar, granulated sugar, and apple pie spice in a bowl. Sprinkle over the coated cereal and toss to cover.
  5. Mix in Apple ChipsFold in crushed dried apple chips for a chewy, tangy apple note that balances the sweetness.
  6. Cool & ServeSpread the mix on parchment paper to cool completely. Once set, break apart and store in an airtight container.

Variations to Try

  • Salted Caramel Twist: Sprinkle sea salt over the mix before it cools.
  • Chocolate Lovers: Use milk or dark chocolate chips instead of white.
  • Nutty Crunch: Add toasted pecans or walnuts for extra texture.
  • Apple Crisp Style: Add a hint of cinnamon and crumble in granola pieces.

Tips from Chef Emma

  • Microwave in short intervals — caramel burns quickly.
  • Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and even cooling.
  • For stronger apple flavor, add ½ teaspoon apple extract.
  • Store in a glass jar for a cute, giftable fall snack idea.

Nutrition Info per Serving

  • Serving Size: ½ cup
  • Calories: 200
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Sodium: 180mg

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
    A: Yes, store it in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature.
  • Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
    A: Absolutely — just use certified gluten-free Chex cereal.
  • Q: What can I use instead of apple chips?
    A: Freeze-dried apples or even chopped dried apples work well.
  • Q: Can I add nuts or candy?
    A: Definitely! Add M&Ms or pecans for a fun twist.

Final Thoughts

This Caramel Apple Puppy Chow captures everything we love about fall — warm spices, caramel sweetness, and cozy comfort in every handful. Whether you serve it at a Halloween party, tuck it into treat bags, or keep a bowl for yourself, it’s the ultimate fall snack you’ll come back to again and again. Save this recipe to your Fall Recipes board so you’ll have it ready when the cozy cravings hit!

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Caramel Apple Puppy Chow – Sweet, Crunchy & Irresistibly Cozy Fall Treat

  • Author: Chef Emma
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings 1x
Print Recipe

Description

This Caramel Apple Puppy Chow is sweet, crunchy, and irresistibly cozy — the perfect no-bake fall treat! Coated in warm caramel and apple pie spice, this easy snack tastes like caramel apples in bite-size form. Perfect for parties, Halloween, or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 9 cups Rice Chex cereal
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips
  • 1 cup caramel bits
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 tablespoon apple pie spice
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup crushed dried apple chips

Instructions

  1. Place Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Melt white chocolate chips and caramel bits together in 30-second microwave intervals, stirring until smooth. Stir in vanilla and salt.
  3. Pour the caramel mixture over the cereal and toss gently to coat evenly.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix powdered sugar, granulated sugar, and apple pie spice. Sprinkle over coated cereal and toss until covered.
  5. Fold in crushed dried apple chips for a chewy, tangy bite.
  6. Spread the mix on parchment paper to cool completely before serving or storing.

Notes

For stronger apple flavor, add apple extract or extra crushed apple chips. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Add nuts or drizzle with butterscotch for an indulgent twist.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/2 cup
  • Calories: 200
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Protein: 2g

Keywords: caramel apple, puppy chow, fall snack, no bake dessert, halloween treat, cozy fall recipe

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