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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Microwaving
- Cuisine: American