Snow on the window, soft lights twinkling, and a bowl of sweet, crunchy Reindeer Chow waiting on the counter. This simple Christmas mix feels like pure joy in snack form. It’s quick, gluten-free, and full of the cozy flavors that make December feel like home.
Table of Contents
What is Reindeer Chow?
Reindeer Chow, also known as Puppy Chow or Muddy Buddies, is a no-bake Christmas treat that combines cereal, chocolate, and festive mix-ins. My version swaps the usual milk chocolate and powdered sugar for a gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan-friendly twist. You still get that delicious mix of crunch, sweetness, and cheer—just with more people-friendly ingredients.
It’s perfect for parties, holiday movie nights, or gifting to friends. You can make it in minutes and chill it while wrapping presents.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love how easy and adaptable this Reindeer Chow is. It takes only five minutes to mix and thirty minutes to chill. It’s great for gifting in mason jars or little paper bags tied with ribbon.
It’s also kid-approved, allergy-friendly, and endlessly customizable. You can adjust ingredients based on what you already have in your pantry, which makes it a stress-free dessert option during the busy holiday season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple pantry staples you probably already have.
- Chex mix: Make sure it’s certified gluten-free. Any variety works.
- Popcorn: Freshly popped, lightly salted, or sweet and salty for an extra treat.
- Pretzels: Gluten-free twists or sticks for crunch.
- Peanuts: Use dry roasted unsalted peanuts, or leave them out for nut-free.
- White chocolate: Choose dairy-free if needed.
- Coconut oil: Refined coconut oil keeps the flavor neutral.
- Christmas sprinkles: For that festive sparkle.
Optional Add-ins
Crushed candy canes, mini m&m’s, peppermint extract, Andes mints, or rice crispies all work beautifully. Add what your family loves.
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
For nut allergies, swap peanuts for sunflower seeds or skip them completely.
To keep it vegan, use dairy-free chocolate and ensure your pretzels and cereal are certified vegan.
If you prefer darker chocolate, substitute it for white chocolate and add a pinch of sea salt for balance.
How to Make Gluten-Free Reindeer Chow
Making this Reindeer Chow couldn’t be easier. Here’s how it goes:
- Combine base mix: In a large bowl, add the Chex mix, popcorn, pretzels, and peanuts.
- Melt chocolate + oil: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt white chocolate and coconut oil in 20-second bursts, stirring each time.
- Coat mix evenly: Pour the melted chocolate over the bowl of snacks. Stir gently until everything is coated.
- Add sprinkles and extras: Fold in Christmas sprinkles and any other fun add-ins.
- Spread, chill, and break apart: Spread the coated mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes, then break it into clusters.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Always add sprinkles after mixing to avoid color bleeding.
- Use refined coconut oil if you want a neutral flavor.
- Spread the mix thinly so it sets faster.
- Let kids help—this is a fun one for little hands.
Cleanup is simple too, since everything mixes in one big bowl.
How to Store Reindeer Chow
Store Reindeer Chow in an airtight container for up to one week. You can keep it at room temperature or in the fridge if your kitchen runs warm. It’s an easy make-ahead snack for parties or holiday gatherings.
For gifting, divide into small jars or clear treat bags tied with ribbon and a tag. It looks festive and feels thoughtful.
Variations & Add-Ins
You can change this Reindeer Chow to fit any season or flavor mood.
- Peppermint twist: Add crushed candy canes and a drop of peppermint extract.
- Mocha mix: Use dark chocolate and toss in espresso powder.
- Nutty delight: Try almonds or cashews for a richer crunch.
- Kid-fun versions: Use pastel sprinkles for Easter or red-white-blue candy for the 4th of July.
If you love quick, festive treats, you might also enjoy my Peppermint Bark Brownies for a holiday dessert duo or Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars for festive snack inspiration.
Gluten-Free Reindeer Chow Recipe Card
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Reindeer Chow Recipe | Simple, Sweet & Festive Snack Mix
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 cups 1x
Description
A quick, no-bake holiday snack mix made with Chex cereal, popcorn, and white chocolate. Gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan-friendly — perfect for gifting or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
2 cups Chex mix (certified gluten free if needed)
2 cups popcorn (freshly popped)
2 cups pretzels (gluten free if desired)
1/2 cup dry roasted peanuts (unsalted)
9 oz white chocolate (dairy free if desired)
1 tablespoon coconut oil (refined)
Christmas sprinkles
Optional add-ins: crushed candy canes, m&m’s, peppermint extract, rice crispies, sliced almonds
Instructions
1. Add Chex mix, popcorn, pretzels, and peanuts to a large bowl.
2. Melt white chocolate and coconut oil until smooth.
3. Pour melted chocolate over the mix and stir to coat evenly.
4. Fold in sprinkles and other add-ins.
5. Spread mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Chill for at least 30 minutes or until set.
7. Break into chunks and serve.
Notes
Customize with what you have on hand.
Add candies and sprinkles after coating to avoid color bleed.
Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Easy & Decadent Christmas Desserts
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
More Such Recipes
If you’re craving more no-fuss sweets, try my Easy No-Bake Cookies for simple and quick holiday ideas, Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies Recipe for chocolaty giftable treats, or 4th of July Crinkle Cookies for colorful cookie alternatives.
Each one brings joy and ease to your dessert table.
FAQs
Can I make Reindeer Chow without peanuts?
Yes, absolutely. Skip the peanuts or swap them for sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or even more pretzels. The mix will still taste crunchy and balanced.
How can I make this recipe more festive?
Add crushed candy canes, red and green m&m’s, or extra sprinkles. You can even drizzle melted dark chocolate on top before chilling for a pretty layered look.
What’s the best way to gift Reindeer Chow?
Let it chill completely, then pack it in small mason jars or clear bags. Add a tag that says “Reindeer Snacks” for a cute touch. It’s fun for teachers, neighbors, or kids’ friends.
Final Thoughts
This Gluten-Free Reindeer Chow brings together everything we love about the holidays—sweet treats, shared laughter, and cozy kitchen moments. It’s quick, festive, and friendly for nearly every diet.
Try it once, and it might just become your new holiday tradition. For more festive ideas, check out my latest creations on Pinterest or join me on Facebook.