This innovative dessert recipe reimagines the beloved classic Puppy Chow Recipe by infusing it with the luxurious taste of the Best Red Velvet Cake. Unlike traditional versions that often rely on chocolate and peanut butter, this treat captures the iconic flavors of red velvet, making it a standout snack that absolutely will not disappoint even the most discerning sweet tooth.

For those who adore the distinctive taste of red velvet, this puppy chow is just the beginning. We also highly recommend exploring other delightful red velvet creations, such as our luscious Red Velvet Poke Cake, rich Red Velvet Brownies, and the surprisingly addictive Red Velvet Popcorn. Our family has a deep affection for all recipes featuring that iconic red velvet flavor, and another undisputed favorite is our decadent Red Velvet Fudge. Prepare to dive into a world of crimson-hued treats!

Why We Love This Red Velvet Puppy Chow Recipe

This Red Velvet Puppy Chow stands out as a truly unique and utterly delicious snack. The crispy Chex cereal is transformed, not by the usual melted chocolate and peanut butter, but by a luxurious coating of melted cream cheese frosting. This creamy layer perfectly mimics the signature frosting of a red velvet cake, providing a delightful tang and sweetness that complements the rich flavor of the red velvet cake mix it’s tossed in.

What makes this recipe particularly appealing is its incredible flavor fusion. You won’t even miss the traditional chocolate or peanut butter because this red velvet twist is simply extraordinary. It delivers a gourmet taste with minimal effort, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion. The total preparation time is surprisingly short, allowing you to whip up a batch of this sweet confection quickly and easily. Its vibrant red hue, especially when adorned with festive sprinkles, makes it an ideal dessert for Valentine’s Day celebrations, Christmas gatherings, or any time you want to add a touch of elegance and whimsy to your snack selection. This is more than just a snack; it’s an experience!

What is Puppy Chow?

Puppy Chow, also widely known as Muddy Buddies, is a cherished homemade snack mix that has delighted generations. At its core, it consists of crisp Chex cereal pieces generously coated with a sweet, delectable mixture and then shaken with powdered sugar. The classic iteration typically features Chex cereal enrobed in a warm blend of melted semi-sweet chocolate chips and creamy peanut butter, followed by a final dusting of powdered sugar to prevent sticking and add an extra layer of sweetness.

Over the years, this beloved snack has inspired countless creative variations, each offering a unique flavor profile. From seasonal twists to decadent dessert-inspired versions, the versatility of puppy chow is part of its charm. This particular recipe for Red Velvet Puppy Chow takes the concept to a new level of indulgence and visual appeal. Instead of the traditional chocolate and peanut butter, our version uses melted cream cheese frosting combined with powdered sugar and, crucially, red velvet cake mix. This innovative combination results in a snack that is not only exquisitely decadent but also strikingly beautiful, with its signature red hue and inviting texture. It’s a perfect example of how a classic can be reinvented to create something truly special.

Ingredients for Red Velvet Puppy Chow

Crafting this delightful Red Velvet Puppy Chow requires a simple list of ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry or can easily find at any grocery store. The magic truly happens when these few components come together to create a snack that’s far greater than the sum of its parts.

• Chex Cereal: The foundation of our puppy chow! Its unique square shape and slightly crispy texture are perfect for holding onto all the delicious coating. You can choose between rice or corn variations based on your preference; both work wonderfully. We recommend using a full-sized box to ensure you have enough for a generous batch.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: This is the secret ingredient that truly elevates this recipe, providing that unmistakable tangy and sweet cream cheese flavor characteristic of red velvet desserts. While store-bought frosting offers convenience, you can also opt for a rich and flavorful Homemade Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe for an extra touch of gourmet quality. Make sure it’s a standard tub (usually 16 oz) for the perfect coating consistency.
• Red Velvet Cake Mix: Any brand of red velvet cake mix will do the trick. This ingredient not only imparts the beautiful deep red color but also a concentrated burst of red velvet flavor, which is crucial for distinguishing this snack from other puppy chow variations. It adds a lovely richness that makes this snack truly stand out.
• Powdered Sugar: Also known as confectioners’ sugar, this fine powder creates the signature “muddy buddy” coating. It provides a final layer of sweetness and helps prevent the cereal from sticking together. Sifting the powdered sugar beforehand is highly recommended to eliminate any lumps, ensuring a smooth and even coating.
• Red, White, and Pink Sprinkles: These are entirely optional but highly encouraged! Sprinkles add a festive touch, especially if you’re making this for holidays like Valentine’s Day or Christmas. They enhance the visual appeal, making your Red Velvet Puppy Chow look as delightful as it tastes. Heart-shaped sprinkles are particularly charming for romantic occasions.

For precise measurements, you will find the complete list of ingredients and quantities in the detailed recipe card located at the bottom of this post. Having everything measured out and ready before you begin will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

How to Make Red Velvet Puppy Chow

Creating this Red Velvet Puppy Chow is a straightforward and fun process, yielding a truly impressive snack with minimal fuss. Follow these simple steps to bring this decadent treat to life:

Step 1: Heat Treat the Cake Mix. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the red velvet cake mix evenly across a clean baking sheet. Bake it for approximately 5 minutes. This crucial step is called “heat treating” and helps eliminate any potential bacteria in raw flour, making your puppy chow safer to consume. Once baked, remove the cake mix from the oven and allow it to cool completely before proceeding. It should be room temperature to avoid melting the frosting later.

Step 2: Melt Frosting and Coat Cereal. Place the cream cheese frosting into a large, microwave-safe mixing bowl. Heat the frosting in 20-second intervals in the microwave, stirring thoroughly after each interval. Continue this process until the frosting is completely melted and smooth, with a pourable consistency. Next, add the Chex cereal to the melted frosting. Using a spatula, gently fold the cereal until every piece is evenly coated with the rich cream cheese frosting. Take care not to crush the cereal during this step to maintain its crisp texture.

Step 3: Shake with Dry Mix. In a large, sealable plastic bag (like a Ziploc bag), combine the cooled, heat-treated red velvet cake mix and the powdered sugar. Seal the bag and shake vigorously until the two powders are thoroughly combined. Now, add the frosting-coated Chex cereal into the bag, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Seal the bag again and shake gently but firmly until all the cereal pieces are completely covered with the red velvet and powdered sugar mixture. This creates the iconic “muddy” appearance and adds a burst of flavor.

Step 4: Cool and Serve. Once thoroughly coated, remove the Red Velvet Puppy Chow from the bag and spread it out onto a clean baking sheet or parchment paper. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature. This step is crucial for the coating to set and for the cereal to regain its crispness. Once cooled and set, toss in your desired red, white, and pink sprinkles just before serving. For an extra layer of sweetness and texture, you can also mix in some white chocolate chips at this stage. Your stunning and delicious Red Velvet Puppy Chow is now ready to be enjoyed!

Storage

Proper storage is key to keeping your Red Velvet Puppy Chow fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Once the snack mix has completely cooled and the coating has set, transfer any leftovers to an airtight plastic bag or a sealed container. Both options are excellent for preserving the freshness and crispness of your Red Velvet Muddy Buddies. Store the container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight or heat, to maintain its quality.

When stored correctly, this delightful puppy chow will maintain its optimal flavor and texture for up to 5 days. However, in our experience, it rarely lasts that long! This irresistible snack tends to disappear quickly, a testament to how much everyone loves its unique red velvet flavor and satisfying crunch. For longer storage, you can also freeze puppy chow in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Just be sure to let it thaw completely at room temperature before serving to restore its texture.

Pro Tips for Perfect Red Velvet Puppy Chow

Achieving the perfect batch of Red Velvet Puppy Chow is simple with a few insider tips. These pointers will help ensure your snack mix is beautifully coated, perfectly flavored, and visually appealing every time:

• Add Sprinkles at the Right Time: For the most vibrant and defined sprinkles, wait until the puppy chow mixture has completely cooled and set before tossing them in. Adding them to warm or still-wet puppy chow can cause the colors to bleed and the sprinkles to melt, creating a less appealing appearance. Patience ensures those charming little decorations stand out beautifully.
• Heat Treat the Dry Cake Mix: This is a critical food safety step that cannot be skipped. Raw flour, which is a component of cake mix, can sometimes contain harmful bacteria. Baking the cake mix for 5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) effectively “heat treats” the flour, making it safe for consumption in no-bake recipes. Always ensure the cake mix cools completely before you use it in the recipe.
• Combine Thoroughly: When shaking the cereal with the dry red velvet cake mix and powdered sugar, make sure to do so really well in a large, sturdy resealable bag. You want every single piece of cereal to be perfectly coated, ensuring a consistent flavor and texture throughout the batch. If the bag is too full, work in smaller batches to guarantee even coverage. Using a large bag also provides enough air for the cereal to tumble and coat effectively.
• Use Parchment Paper for Easy Cleanup: Spreading the coated puppy chow on parchment paper for cooling will prevent it from sticking to your baking sheet. It also makes for a super easy cleanup once the puppy chow is ready to be stored or served.
• Gentle Folding is Key: When mixing the Chex cereal with the melted cream cheese frosting, use a gentle folding motion with a spatula. This technique helps to coat the cereal thoroughly without breaking the delicate pieces, preserving the satisfying crunch of the puppy chow.
• Experiment with Variations: While the core red velvet flavor is fantastic, don’t hesitate to experiment! Stir in some white chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, or even chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) along with the sprinkles for added texture and flavor dimensions.

More Easy Puppy Chow Recipes

If you’ve fallen in love with the simplicity and deliciousness of puppy chow, you’re in luck! There are endless variations to explore, each offering a unique and exciting flavor profile. Here are some other easy puppy chow recipes that are sure to become family favorites:

• Hot Chocolate Puppy Chow: Perfect for winter months, this cozy version captures the comforting flavors of hot chocolate in a snack mix.
• Harvest Puppy Chow Recipe: A seasonal delight featuring autumnal flavors, ideal for Thanksgiving or fall gatherings.
• Funfetti Puppy Chow Recipe: Bursting with colorful sprinkles and a classic birthday cake flavor, this is a festive treat for any celebration.
• Classic Puppy Chow Recipe: Revisit the original that started it all – a timeless combination of chocolate, peanut butter, and powdered sugar.
• S’mores Puppy Chow: Experience the campfire classic in snack form, complete with graham cracker, chocolate, and marshmallow flavors.

We encourage you to try this Red Velvet Puppy Chow today for the perfect snack that combines elegance with ease. Once you’ve had a chance to enjoy it, please share your thoughts by leaving a comment and a star rating below!

Red Velvet Puppy Chow

★★★★☆

4.67 from 6 votes

Enjoy all the rich, captivating flavors of red velvet in this easy Red Velvet Puppy Chow recipe. This delightful snack mix is generously coated in red velvet cake mix and creamy cream cheese frosting, making it a perfect sweet treat for any occasion, especially with festive heart sprinkles.

Prep Time
40 mins

Cook Time
5 mins

Servings
12

Cuisine
American

Course
Dessert

Calories
442

Author
Carrie Barnard

Ingredients

Use the 1x, 2x, or 3x buttons above for adjustable serving sizes.

• 9 cups Chex Cereal
• 16 oz Cream Cheese Frosting
• 2 cups Red Velvet Cake Mix
• 1 cup Powdered Sugar
• Red White and Pink Sprinkles (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the 2 cups of red velvet cake mix on a baking sheet and bake for 5 minutes. Then allow the cake mix to cool completely before using.
3. Place the cream cheese frosting in a large microwave-safe mixing bowl. Heat the frosting in 20-second intervals until melted, stirring after each interval until smooth.
4. Add the Chex cereal to the melted frosting. Gently fold the cereal with a spatula until it’s thoroughly coated with the cream cheese frosting.
5. In a large, sealable bag, combine the cooled red velvet cake mix and powdered sugar. Shake vigorously to combine the two powders. Then, working in batches, add the frosting-coated cereal into the bag, seal, and shake until the cereal is coated with the red velvet mixture.
6. Remove the coated puppy chow and spread it out onto a baking sheet or parchment paper to cool completely. Continue this process until all the cereal is coated.
7. Once the puppy chow has cooled completely and set, toss in the sprinkles right before serving.
8. Your Red Velvet Puppy Chow is now ready to serve and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Keep any leftover Red Velvet Puppy Chow in an airtight bag or container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and crisp for up to 5 days. For best results, ensure it is completely cooled before storing.

Nutrition Facts

Calories 442kcal,
Carbohydrates 88g,
Protein 6g,
Fat 10g,
Saturated Fat 3g,
Polyunsaturated Fat 4g,
Monounsaturated Fat 3g,
Sodium 502mg,
Potassium 251mg,
Fiber 6g,
Sugar 46g,
Vitamin A 495IU,
Vitamin C 6mg,
Calcium 130mg,
Iron 15mg

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