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Caramel Apple Puppy Chow Recipe

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3.9 from 70 reviews

Caramel Apple Puppy Chow is a deliciously addictive snack made with crisp rice cereal coated in a rich spiced caramel sauce, then dusted with powdered sugar and mixed with finely chopped dried apples. This sweet and crunchy treat is perfect for snacking, gatherings, or holiday celebrations.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 cups

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 8 cups crisp rice cereal squares (such as Chex)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 cup finely chopped dried apples

Caramel Sauce

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup light corn syrup
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Caramel Mixture: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the unsalted butter, packed light brown sugar, granulated sugar, light corn syrup, ground cinnamon, and salt. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir until the mixture is smooth and the butter is melted.
  2. Cook the Caramel: Continue microwaving the mixture for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds. The caramel will thicken slightly and turn a deep amber color. Stir in the vanilla extract to complete the caramel sauce.
  3. Coat the Cereal: Pour the crisp rice cereal squares into a separate large mixing bowl. Drizzle the hot caramel mixture over the cereal and gently toss using a silicone spatula to ensure even coating of all the cereal pieces with the caramel.
  4. Add Powdered Sugar: Sprinkle the powdered sugar over the caramel-coated cereal. Toss gently again to coat the cereal completely with a light, powdery layer, adding sweetness and a slight crunch.
  5. Incorporate Dried Apples: Add the finely chopped dried apples to the bowl. Toss everything to distribute the apples evenly throughout the mixture, creating a balanced flavor in every bite.
  6. Cool and Serve: Allow the mixture to cool completely so the caramel sets and the snack mixes bind together. Once cooled, serve immediately or store in an airtight container for later snacking.

Notes

  • Make sure to use a microwave-safe bowl large enough to accommodate stirring and tossing without spilling.
  • Be careful when handling the hot caramel; it can cause burns.
  • For an extra twist, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger to the caramel mixture.
  • Store the finished puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain its crunchiness.
  • Finely chopping the dried apples helps them blend well without overpowering the crunch of the cereal.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Microwaving
  • Cuisine: American