Meet Lemon Puppy Chow, a delightful variation of the classic Muddy Buddies recipe that brings a burst of citrusy goodness to every bite. This irresistible treat combines the satisfying crunch of Chex cereal with the tangy sweetness of lemon flavor.
It’s perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. We love that it’s not too sweet & the light citrus taste is delightful. I have a hard time just eating a few.
What is Lemon Puppy Chow?
It’s the lemon version of the peanut butter muddy buddies. Wondering what muddy buddies are? A classic recipe for a homemade snack. The main ingredients include cereal, chocolate, peanut butter, and powdered sugar.
Tips for Lemon Puppy Chow Success:
This is such an easy recipe. Following these tips will help your lemony snack mix turn out every time.
White Baking Chips: For the best results, use white baking chips rather than white chocolate chips. White baking chips melt more smoothly and evenly, ensuring a perfect coating for your cereal.
Microwave Chips in Short Intervals: There is less chance of burning the chips if you heat them 1 minute or less and stir between each cycle.
Coating Evenly: To ensure every piece of Chex cereal is perfectly coated, use a large plastic bag for the mixing process. This allows you to shake the mixture thoroughly without making a mess.
Cool Completely: Let the coated cereal cool completely on a cookie sheet before storing it. This prevents clumping and keeps your Puppy Chow crispy.
Fresh Lemon Zest: Use fresh lemon zest for the most vibrant flavor. A micro plane zester works best for getting fine, aromatic zest without the bitter white pith.
Gentle Melting: When melting white chocolate, do so gently to avoid burning. Use a double boiler or microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently.
Lemon Puppy Chow (Muddy Buddies) Recipe
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Kitchen Essentials
Ingredients
- 5 Cups Rice Chex
- 4 Cups Corn Chex
- 11/2 Cups White Baking Chips
- 4 Teaspoons Lemon Zest Grated
- 2 Tablespoons Lemon Juice
- 1/4 Cup Butter softened
- 11/2 Cups Powdered Sugar
Instructions
Stove Top Directions
- Place cereal in a large bowl and set aside.
- Make the lemon zest and set aside.
- In top of a double boiler or a metal bowl over hot water, add the baking chips, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Melt the chips and stir until smooth. Remove from the heat and stir in the butter until blended.
- Pour lemon chocolate mixture over the cereal. Gently toss to coat.
- Add powdered sugar and gently toss to coat. Plastic bag option. You could also Add the powdered sugar to a 2-gallon resealable food storage plastic bag. Add in the cereal mixture. Seal bag and shake until all the cereal is well-coated.
- Spread onto waxed paper to cool. Store in an airtight container.
Microwave Directions
- Use a microwavable bowl. Microwave white chocolate baking chips, butter, lemon zest and juice uncovered on high for 1 minute. Stir.
- Microwave 30 more seconds and stir. The mixture should be smooth. If not, continue microwaving for 15 seconds and stir until smooth.
- Pour mixture over cereal, gently stir until the cereal is evenly coated.
- Add powdered sugar and gently toss to coat. Plastic bag method. Add the powdered sugar to a 2-gallon resealable food storage plastic bag. Add in the cereal mixture. Seal bag and shake until all the cereal is well-coated.
- Spread onto a waxed paper lined baking sheet to cool.
- Store in an airtight container.
Your Own Private Notes
Nutrition
How to Make Lemon Zest
Lemon zest is made from the lemon peel. Start by washing your lemon thoroughly. Use a micro plane zester or the fine side of a box grater to gently scrape the lemon’s outer yellow skin, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. Collect the fragrant zest in a bowl, and it’s ready to use in your recipes.
Recipe Variations:
This is such a simple recipe and there are so many ways you can change up the flavors of this fun snack.
If you really like a lemony zing, add a little lemon extract to the mix. Start with just 1/8 teaspoon and taste.
Lemon Blueberry Puppy Chow: Add dried blueberries to the mix for a delicious lemon-blueberry combination that brings a pop of color and extra flavor.
Coconut Lemon Puppy Chow: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical twist. You can even use coconut oil instead of butter for melting the chocolate.
Lemon Poppy Seed Puppy Chow: Sprinkle in some poppy seeds along with the lemon zest for a delightful variation reminiscent of lemon poppy seed muffins.
Lemon Lavender Puppy Chow: Add a touch of culinary lavender for a sophisticated and aromatic flavor profile. Just be sure to use edible-grade lavender and add it sparingly.
Gluten-Free Lemon Puppy Chow Recipe: Simply use gluten-free Chex cereal to make this treat suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
My family loved this!