Irresistible Brownie Batter Puppy Chow

Featured in Sweet Endings: Irresistible Desserts.

Turn basic Chocolate Chex into a chocolate-lover's dream snack in under 15 minutes. This no-bake treat coats the cereal in rich melted chocolate, followed by a toss in a blend of cocoa powder, brown sugar, and granulated sugar for that signature brownie taste. Optional sprinkles give it an extra fun texture, and a dusting of powdered sugar finishes the look.
A chef holding a plate of food.
Updated on Mon, 03 Mar 2025 00:09:24 GMT
A bowl of sweet cereal mix with a spoon. Pin it
A bowl of sweet cereal mix with a spoon. | linacooks.com

Get ready for an irresistible twist on classic puppy chow with this decadent Brownie Batter version. Rich chocolate and brownie flavors combine with crunchy cereal to create an addictive snack that tastes just like fresh brownie batter. This no-bake treat comes together quickly and disappears even faster at parties and gatherings.

Key Ingredients

  • Chocolate Chex: Creates the perfect base and enhances the chocolate flavor
  • Dark Chocolate: Use 60% cacao chips for optimal richness
  • Smooth Peanut Butter: Helps chocolate adhere and adds subtle nutty notes
  • Dutch Cocoa: Provides intense chocolate flavor and color
  • Dark Brown Sugar: Adds authentic brownie batter taste
A bowl of cereal with chocolate chips. Pin it
A bowl of cereal with chocolate chips. | linacooks.com

Step-by-Step Method

Melt the Chocolate
  • Mix chocolate chips and peanut butter in microwave-safe bowl
  • Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each
  • Stop when mostly melted
  • Stir until completely smooth
Coat the Cereal
  • Place cereal in large mixing bowl
  • Pour warm chocolate mixture over cereal
  • Fold gently but thoroughly
  • Ensure even coating on all pieces
Add Brownie Flavor
  • Combine cocoa and sugars
  • Dust over chocolate-coated cereal
  • Toss until evenly distributed
  • Add sprinkles if desired
Final Coating
  • Transfer to large paper bag
  • Add powdered sugar in two batches
  • Shake between additions
  • Let set before serving

Holiday Variations

Customize with seasonal sprinkles - use orange and black for Halloween or red and green for festive Christmas treats.

Storage Tips

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent melting. The chilled texture enhances the brownie-like experience.

Expert Advice

  • Prep Area: Cover workspace with parchment paper
  • Temperature: Let cool fully before storing
  • Extra Touch: Garnish with mini chocolate chips

This elevated take on classic puppy chow delivers the nostalgic taste of brownie batter in every bite. The combination of chocolate-coated cereal and rich brownie flavoring creates an irresistible snack perfect for any occasion.

A bowl of cereal with chocolate chips. Pin it
A bowl of cereal with chocolate chips. | linacooks.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different cereal instead of Chocolate Chex?
Sure, you can replace it with 8 cups of Rice Chex or another crunchy rice-based cereal if Chocolate Chex isn’t available.
→ How are Dutch processed and regular cocoa powders different?
Dutch processed cocoa has a smoother, less sharp flavor, but either type will work beautifully in this recipe.
→ How long does this stay fresh after making it?
Once stored in an airtight container at room temperature, this snack remains delicious for up to a week.
→ Are the chocolate sprinkles necessary?
Nope! Sprinkles are totally optional. They add some crunch and extra chocolatey fun, but the recipe tastes fantastic without them.
→ Can I prepare this a few days ahead of an event?
Absolutely. It’s a perfect make-ahead snack. Prepare it up to a week in advance and keep it sealed tight until you’re ready to enjoy.

Brownie Puppy Snack

Put together this indulgent Brownie Batter Puppy Chow made with crunchy Chocolate Chex, smooth melted chocolate, and a sugary brownie-flavored coating.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
~
Total Time
15 Minutes
By: Paolina

Category: Desserts

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 8 Servings (8 cups)

Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Base Ingredients

01 1 box (12.8 oz/362g) of Chocolate Chex® cereal
02 8 oz (227g) dark or semi-sweet chopped chocolate

→ Sugar Coating

03 ⅓ cup (32g) unsweetened or Dutch processed cocoa powder
04 ⅓ cup (67g) white sugar
05 ¼ cup (30g) powdered sugar
06 ½ cup (100g) packed light brown sugar

→ Optional Add-ins

07 ⅔ cup (126g) chocolate sprinkles

Instructions

Step 01

Dump the cereal into a big mixing bowl and leave it for now.

Step 02

Grab a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cocoa powder, and granulated sugar together until blended. Set the bowl aside.

Step 03

Throw the chopped chocolate into a small microwave-safe bowl, heat it for 20 seconds in the microwave on HIGH, stir it, and keep heating in 20-second bursts (stirring each time) until it’s smooth and melted.

Step 04

Pour all that warm, melted chocolate over your cereal and gently stir to make sure it covers everything evenly.

Step 05

Move the chocolatey cereal into a big bag with a seal or any large container that’s got a tight lid. Toss in the sprinkles, seal it up, and shake it till they’re all mixed in.

Step 06

Toss in the sugar mixture from earlier, give it another good shake to spread it out. Then add the powdered sugar and do the same till it’s all coated.

Step 07

Spread the coated cereal out onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Let it cool down. Throw away extra powder if there’s too much sticking to the bottom. Keep it in an airtight container at room temp for up to 7 days.

Notes

  1. Chocolate Chex® can be swapped for Rice Chex® or other crispy rice cereals—use 8 cups if replacing.
  2. Dutch cocoa generally tastes less harsh compared to regular cocoa powder.
  3. This can stay fresh in a sealed container at room temperature for about a week.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large bowl for mixing
  • Small bowl for combining sugar
  • Whisk for stirring sugars
  • Microwave-safe bowl for melting chocolate
  • Big resealable bag or container with a lid
  • Baking tray
  • Parchment paper or foil to cover the tray

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Chocolate might include dairy since it could contain milk.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: ~
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~