15-Minute Salted Peanut Nutella Puppy Chow Recipe

A sweet and salty twist on classic puppy chow featuring crunchy Rice Chex cereal coated in melted Nutella and tossed with chopped salted peanuts and powdered sugar. This no-bake snack combines the rich chocolate-hazelnut flavor of Nutella with the satisfying crunch of peanuts for an irresistible treat. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or when you need a quick sweet fix that requires minimal effort and no baking skills.
Ingredients
- 4 cups Rice Chex cerealCorn Chex1:1gluten-free
similar texture and flavor
- 1 cup Nutellapeanut butter1:1nut-free if using sunflower seed butteradds peanuts
changes flavor profile significantly
Full guide → - ½ cup salted peanuts, choppedalmonds1:1different nut preferencepeanuts-freeadds tree_nuts
changes flavor and texture slightly
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- 1
Melt the Nutella in a microwave-safe bowl for 30 seconds or until smooth
- 2
Combine the Rice Chex cereal and melted Nutella in a large mixing bowl, stirring gently until cereal is evenly coated
- 3
Add the chopped salted peanuts to the bowl and mix well
- 4
Transfer the mixture to a large Ziploc bag, add the powdered sugar, seal the bag, and shake until everything is well coated
- 5
Spread the puppy chow out on a baking sheet to cool and set before serving
Tips
Make sure the Nutella is completely smooth before mixing to ensure even coating on the cereal pieces.
Use a large bag when shaking with powdered sugar to give ingredients room to move and coat evenly.
Let the puppy chow cool completely before storing to prevent clumping and ensure the coating sets properly.
Good to Know
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week
Can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in airtight container
Serve at room temperature in small bowls or paper cups
Common Mistakes
Don't overheat the Nutella to avoid burning and creating a thick consistency that won't coat evenly
Seal the bag completely when shaking to avoid powdered sugar mess and ensure even coating
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Swaps
similar texture and flavor
Nut-Free Alternatives
changes flavor profile significantly
Full guide →changes flavor and texture slightly
Full guide →FAQ
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of Nutella?
Yes, but melt it slightly and the texture will be different. You'll get more peanut flavor and less chocolate sweetness than with Nutella.
How long does this puppy chow keep fresh?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. The coating may soften slightly over time but will still taste good.
Can I freeze this puppy chow?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Let it come to room temperature before serving for best texture and flavor.