Gluten Free Puppy Chow is a quick, six-ingredient snack that’s ideal for busy days and picky eaters. Also known as Muddy Buddies, this version is both gluten free and dairy free, making it a favorite for families who need or prefer those options.
Why this recipe is worth making:
- Kid-friendly and fun to prepare together.
- Uses simple pantry ingredients you likely already have, or can easily pick up.
- No baking required—perfect when you don’t want to heat the kitchen.
- Versatile for year-round snacking and easy to customize for holidays.
What you need to make Muddy Buddies
- Gluten free Rice Chex cereal (any trusted gluten-free brand)
- Powdered sugar
- Peanut butter (creamy works best)
- Vanilla extract
- Dairy free chocolate chips (choose a certified dairy-free and gluten-free option)
- Dairy free butter (or a suitable dairy-free spread)
Exact quantities are provided 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 until smooth. Stir in the vanilla. Pour the warm mixture over the Rice Chex cereal and gently toss or shake in a large lidded container until the cereal is evenly coated.
Transfer the coated cereal into a large freezer bag, add the powdered sugar, and shake until each piece is well coated. Spread the finished puppy chow on a parchment-lined cookie sheet and allow it to cool for about 15 minutes before serving.
Variations
- Halloween: Fold in candy corn, or add mini marshmallows and small dairy-free chocolate pieces for a festive twist.
- Christmas: Stir in crushed candy canes for a minty touch or combine this recipe with other snack mix favorites to create a holiday assortment.
The base puppy chow is rich and satisfying on its own, but add-ins offer fun texture and seasonal flair. Packaged in tins or treat bags, dairy free puppy chow makes an attractive homemade gift.
Storage
Store puppy chow in an airtight container. If you plan to eat it within a few days, keeping it at room temperature is fine. For longer storage, refrigerate—properly stored, it will keep for several weeks.
More delicious gluten and dairy free treats
- Crunchy crock-pot Chex mix — a great snack for game night, travel, or after-school munching.
- Fudgy brownie cookies — bite-size squares with the chewy texture of your favorite corner brownies.
- Lemon streusel bars — bright, tart bars topped with buttery streusel for contrast and texture.
Gluten and Dairy Free Puppy Chow
Ingredients
- 1 cup gluten and dairy free semi-sweet chocolate chips see brand suggestions
- 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 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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Remove the pan from heat, stir in the vanilla, and mix well.
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Pour the chocolate mixture over the cereal, secure the lid, and gently shake or turn the container in all directions 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 until thoroughly coated. Spread on a parchment-lined cookie sheet and cool for about 15 minutes.
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Store in an airtight container. For short-term use, keep at room temperature; for longer storage, refrigerate.
Nutrition
Nutritional Disclaimer
The nutritional information shown is an estimate and may vary depending on the brands you use. For precise values, calculate using your preferred nutrition tool with the specific ingredients and brands you choose.
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