If you’re searching for a simple no-bake dessert that’s quick to make and full of flavor, this Easy Pistachio Puppy Chow is exactly what you need. With creamy white chocolate, sweet pistachio pudding mix, and crunchy cereal, this recipe delivers a fun twist on classic puppy chow that’s perfect for parties, holidays, or everyday snacking.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Pistachio Puppy Chow
This recipe checks all the boxes for a go-to treat. It’s fast, family-friendly, and doesn’t require turning on the oven. The pistachio flavor adds a light nutty sweetness that feels special without being overwhelming, while the powdered sugar coating gives it that familiar puppy chow crunch everyone loves.
It’s also incredibly versatile. Serve it at baby showers, game nights, holiday gatherings, or pack it into snack bags for movie night. Since it’s no-bake and uses pantry-friendly ingredients, it’s perfect for beginner cooks or busy days.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 6 cups Rice or Corn Chex cereal
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (3.4 oz) package pistachio instant pudding mix (dry)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup pistachios, finely chopped
How to Make Easy Pistachio Puppy Chow (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and butter. Heat in 20–30 second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.
Step 2: Add Flavor
Stir the vanilla extract into the melted chocolate mixture until well combined.
Step 3: Coat the Cereal
Place the Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl. Pour the white chocolate mixture over the cereal and gently fold until every piece is evenly coated.
Step 4: Prepare the Sugar Mix
In a separate bowl or large zip-top bag, mix the powdered sugar and dry pistachio pudding mix together.
Step 5: Shake to Coat
Add the coated cereal to the sugar mixture. Toss or gently shake until the cereal is fully coated and no wet spots remain.
Step 6: Finish with Pistachios
Fold in the chopped pistachios for extra crunch and flavor.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Spread the puppy chow on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let it cool completely before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Extra pistachio flavor: Add an extra tablespoon of pistachio pudding mix.
- Nut-free option: Skip the pistachios or use sunflower seeds.
- Holiday twist: Add pastel sprinkles for spring or green sprinkles for festive occasions.
- Storage-friendly: Let it cool fully before storing to avoid clumping.
Serving Ideas & Storage
Serve this pistachio puppy chow in decorative bowls for parties or portion it into small bags for gifting. It pairs perfectly with hot chocolate, tea, or as part of a dessert table.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to 7 days for a firmer texture.
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Easy Pistachio Puppy Chow
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Pistachio Puppy Chow is a quick no-bake treat with a sweet, nutty twist. Creamy white chocolate, pistachio pudding flavor, and crunchy Chex cereal come together fast—perfect for parties, holidays, or an everyday snack.
Ingredients
6 cups Rice or Corn Chex cereal
1 cup white chocolate chips
1 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 (3.4 oz) package pistachio instant pudding mix (dry)
1 cup powdered sugar
1/3 cup pistachios, finely chopped
Instructions
1. Add the Chex cereal to a large mixing bowl.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips and butter. Microwave in 20–30 second bursts, stirring each time, until smooth.
3. Stir vanilla extract into the melted chocolate.
4. Pour the chocolate mixture over the cereal and gently fold until evenly coated.
5. In a large zip-top bag (or separate bowl), mix powdered sugar and dry pistachio pudding mix together.
6. Add the coated cereal, seal, and shake (or toss) until every piece is well coated.
7. Pour onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and let cool completely.
8. Sprinkle in chopped pistachios and gently toss. Serve or store.
Notes
Let the coated cereal cool fully before storing to prevent clumping.
For extra pistachio flavor, add 1–2 extra tablespoons of dry pudding mix.
Nut-free option: skip pistachios or swap with sunflower seeds.
Storage: keep airtight at room temperature up to 5 days, or refrigerate up to 7 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 170 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 8 mg
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~210 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbs | 28g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 170mg |
Final Thoughts
This Easy Pistachio Puppy Chow is proof that simple recipes can still feel special. With minimal prep and big flavor, it’s a treat you’ll want to make again and again—perfect for sharing, gifting, or keeping all to yourself.