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If you love the cozy taste of autumn, this Caramel Apple Puppy Chow brings a sweet crunchy bite to every handful. Think tart green apple, buttery caramel, and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. It's fast to throw together and you'll probably find folks reaching for seconds the minute you set it out.
The first batch I made had my house smelling exactly like cinnamon cake. People wandered in and couldn't wait to grab a handful even before that sweet caramel went on top.
Tasty Ingredients
- Granola: gives the snack a nice hearty bite Go for clusters that don't fall apart when stirred
- Ground cinnamon: adds warmth and a cozy vibe Always pick cinnamon that smells fresh for best results
- Shortening: keeps the melted candy smooth and glossy Skip the butter or the candy might seize up
- Lime green candy melts: layer in another apple-like pop of color Bright colored melts look the most fun
- Rice Chex Apple Cinnamon cereal: packs in the apple flavor and a crisp crunch Apple Cinnamon is best if you can find it and make sure it hasn't gone stale
- Green candy melts: brings homemade caramel apple color Look for candy melts that go silky without burning
- Vanilla cake mix: brings that sweet fairground caramel apple taste Sift it so it's super fine and coats easily
Easy Steps to Make It
- Pour and Split
- Tip half your Rice Chex Apple Cinnamon cereal into a bowl then put the rest in a second one Don't skip this or your colors won't show up so well
- Get the Coating Ready
- Put cake mix granola and cinnamon into two big Ziplock bags Seal 'em up before mixing or you'll have powder everywhere
- Melt the Candy Colors
- Microwave green candy melts and some shortening together in one bowl lime green melts with shortening in another Heat just 20 seconds at a time and stir so it doesn't get lumpy or cook too hot
- Cover the Cereal
- Pour the shiny green candy over one bowl of cereal and the limier green over the second Mix gently so you cover every piece without breaking them
- Shake for Final Coating
- Scoop the sticky cereal into each prepared Ziplock, zip tight, and shake like crazy so the cake mix combo covers everything Don't forget to check for sneaky pieces hiding in the corners
- All Together Now
- Pour both flavors into a big mixing bowl and toss together just enough to mix but keep the colors fun Give it a big caramel drizzle and eat right away
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What I like most is that Apple Cinnamon Chex. It gives the snack that autumn morning cereal vibe. I'll never forget sharing a bowl with my niece on a chilly afternoon—both of us cracking up and licking caramel off every finger.
Best Way to Store
Pop your puppy chow in a sealed container and keep it at room temp. Snack it up within three days. Wait any longer and it'll get kind of soggy. Don't freeze this one since the cereal and granola just won't stay crisp.
Swap Options
No Apple Cinnamon Chex? Grab plain Rice Chex and roll in extra cinnamon and a dash of nutmeg. If green candy melts are MIA, use white chocolate with a smidge of green food dye.
Fun Ways to Share
Stick some in mini bags for a fast on-the-go treat. Pile it into a serving bowl and dust with extra cinnamon for your fall get-together. My top tip—match it with a hot mug of cider and thank me later.
Cozy Fall Inspiration
Classic caramel apples are a total fair treat but can be sticky and tough to handle at home. Every handful of this snack has the same lovely flavors—no mess, no fuss, and plenty to share.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use regular Chex cereal instead of apple cinnamon?
Totally, you can swap in standard Chex cereal. You just won't get that apple-cinnamon twist, but a bit more ground cinnamon helps bring in extra flavor.
- → How do I melt candy melts for coating?
Drop your candy melts and shortening into a bowl for the microwave. Heat for 30 seconds at a time. Stir after every round until everything's melted and smooth.
- → How long does the snack stay fresh?
Keep it packed tight in an airtight box. It'll stay tasty and crisp for up to three days on the countertop.
- → Can I make this treat in advance?
You sure can! Whip it up ahead and keep it covered until you need it. It's perfect for parties, road trips, or just because.
- → What can I use instead of cake mix?
If you're not into cake mix, try swapping it for powdered sugar mixed with cinnamon. Cake mix does give extra yum and texture, though!