Ingredients:
- 9 cups Chex cereal (rice or corn Chex work best)
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup pistachio butter or finely ground pistachios
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup crushed pistachios for extra texture and flavor
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon salt to bring out the flavors, especially if using unsalted pistachio butter
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cereal:
- Measure out the Chex cereal into a large bowl and set it aside.
- Melt the Chocolate Mixture:
- In a microwave-safe medium bowl, combine the white chocolate chips, pistachio butter, and unsalted butter.
- Microwave the mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat as white chocolate can seize up.
- Stir in the vanilla extract (and salt, if you’re using it) into the melted chocolate mixture.
- Coat the Cereal:
- Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal. Gently stir until the cereal is evenly coated.
- Add Powdered Sugar:
- Sprinkle the powdered sugar over the coated cereal. You can do this in the bowl or for a more even coating, place both the powdered sugar and cereal in a large zip-lock bag, seal it, and shake until each piece is covered.
- Add Pistachios:
- If you haven’t already, roughly chop the additional pistachios and mix them into the coated cereal.
- Cool Down:
- Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Let it cool and set.
- Storage:
- Once the puppy chow is set and cooled, store it in an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature, but if it’s warm or humid, you may want to keep it in the refrigerator to prevent the chocolate from melting.
- Serve:
- Serve the pistachio puppy chow in a bowl for snacking. It’s perfect for parties, as a special dessert, or for gifting during the holidays.
Enjoy your homemade Pistachio Puppy Chow! It’s a delightful twist on the classic recipe and is sure to be a hit with those who enjoy the sweet and salty combination of chocolate and nuts.