Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick, fun, and absolutely addictive. It combines all the best parts of caramel apples and muddy buddies in one irresistible bite. The mix of caramel bits, white chocolate, apple spice, and crushed apple chips gives it a sweet, spiced aroma that fills my kitchen with fall warmth. It’s also completely no-bake, making it ideal when I want something festive without turning on the oven. Plus, it’s easy to double or triple for parties and gift bags.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

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

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, I add the 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal and set it aside.

2. In a microwave-safe bowl, I combine the white chocolate chips and caramel bits. I heat them in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until melted and smooth.

3. I stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt into the melted caramel-chocolate mixture.

4. I pour this warm mixture over the Rice Chex cereal and stir gently with a spatula until all the cereal pieces are evenly coated.

5. In a separate small bowl, I mix together the apple pie spice, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar.

6. I sprinkle the sugar mixture over the coated cereal and toss until everything is evenly covered and no sticky spots remain.

7. I fold in the crushed dried apple chips, giving it one last gentle mix.

8. I spread the finished puppy chow onto a sheet of parchment paper to cool completely before serving or storing.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 10 servings.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

I like to switch things up by adding chopped pecans, walnuts, or pretzels for extra crunch. For more caramel flavor, I drizzle melted caramel or butterscotch over the top once it’s cooled. If I want a stronger apple taste, I add a few drops of apple extract to the caramel mixture. I’ve also tried mixing in dark chocolate chips for a sweet contrast. To make it gluten-free, I simply use certified gluten-free Chex cereal.

Storage/Reheating

I store the cooled puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, I keep it in the refrigerator, where it stays fresh and crisp for about 2 weeks. It can also be frozen for up to a month—just thaw at room temperature before serving. Since it’s a no-bake snack, there’s no need to reheat; I just enjoy it straight from the jar.

FAQs

Can I use caramel sauce instead of caramel bits?

I don’t recommend it, as caramel sauce is too thin and can make the mix soggy. Caramel bits melt perfectly for coating.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?

Yes, but I love how the white chocolate lets the apple pie spice flavor shine through.

How do I crush the apple chips?

I place them in a zip-top bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin until they’re small but not powdery.

Can I use fresh apples instead of dried apple chips?

No, fresh apples would add too much moisture and make the mix sticky.

What’s the best way to coat the cereal evenly?

I use a large bowl and a wide spatula, stirring gently from the bottom up to avoid crushing the cereal.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for making a day or two ahead—it actually tastes even better once the flavors blend.

How can I make it less sweet?

I reduce the powdered sugar slightly and add more apple pie spice or a few salted pretzels for balance.

Can I add nuts?

Absolutely. Chopped pecans or almonds add great crunch and pair beautifully with the caramel flavor.

How do I prevent the chocolate mixture from seizing?

I melt the chocolate and caramel slowly in short bursts, stirring often to keep it smooth.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as I use gluten-free Rice Chex cereal and check that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

I find this caramel apple puppy chow to be one of the easiest and most festive snacks to make when fall rolls around. The blend of caramel, apple spice, and crunchy cereal is pure comfort in a bowl. It’s a guaranteed hit at parties, but honestly, I love keeping a jar just for myself to snack on. Sweet, spiced, and utterly addictive—this no-bake treat captures all the flavors of fall in every bite.