Reindeer Chow Recipe (Gluten & Nut-Free)

Cereal, pretzels, dark chocolate, sunflower butter, powdered sugar, and chocolates come together to create this festive reindeer chow recipe! Sweet, crunchy, and festive, it’s the perfect treat for the holidays, and no one would ever guess that it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free. 

Reindeer chow is a staple in our homes during the holidays. These days, you can find bags of pre-made options like Muddy Buddies, but nothing ever beats the real stuff. It’s nutty, sweet, and oh-so-tasty. 

Plus, it’s super fun to make and makes for a fun day in the kitchen and is a fun way to switch things up when making treats like chocolate crinkle cookies and molasses crinkle cookies. 

Most versions use creamy peanut butter and other not-so-allergy-friendly ingredients. However, when serving guests, we try to accommodate as many dietary needs as possible. So, we make a few simple swaps to keep our recipe gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free, and no one even notices a difference! 

What Is Reindeer Chow? 

Also known as muddy buddies or puppy chow, reindeer chow is a festive holiday snack mix that contains cereal, pretzels, nut (or in our case seed) butter, and powdered sugar. There are endless versions of the snack mix. 

However, what sets reindeer chow apart from other recipes is the festive touch that comes in the form of holiday candies. 

Ingredients You’ll Need

Below is an overview of the ingredients and instructions for this reindeer chex mix recipe. Please be sure to scroll down to the recipe card for the complete details! 

• Rice Chex Cereal – Corn Chex also works well if preferred.
• Pretzels – We use Snyders gluten-free mini pretzels, but any pretzels you like best will work. 
• Dark Chocolate Chips – We use dairy-free dark chocolate chips but feel free to use whatever you have on hand. Or, opt for milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate if preferred. 
• SunButter – This keeps the recipe nut-free while still holding all the ingredients together. However, feel free to use any nut butters you like best. Just make sure whatever you choose is creamy!
• Light Olive Oil – This combiens with the chocolate and sunbutter to create a smooth, pourable consistency. Avocado oil will also work. 
• Vanilla Extract
• Powdered Sugar
• M&Ms – Use any holiday-themed chocolate-covered candies such as red and green M&Ms. 

Helpful Tools 

• Large Mixing Bowl
• Microwave-Safe Bowl
• Wooden Spoon
• Silicone Spatula

How to Make This Easy Reindeer Chow Recipe 

1. Create the base. Pour the cereal and pretzels into a very large bowl, and set it aside. 
2. Melt. In a microwave-safe owl, add the chocolate chips, SunButter, and olive oil. Microwave for about two minutes on power setting five. Sitr until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is well combined. Then, mix in the vanilla. 

3. Fold. Pour the chocolate mixture over the cereal and pretzels, and gently fold until the ingredients are completely combined and coated. 

4. Mix. Add the powdered sugar, gently mixing with a wooden spoon. Or, place a lid on the bowl, and shake to combine. 
5. Cool. Set the mixture aside to cool completely. Then, add the chocolate candies, and enjoy! 

Pro-Tip: Make an extra batch, and portion this Christmas chex mix into cellophane bags wrapped with ribbon to give away as fun and festive Christmas treats!

Common Questions 

Did you make and enjoy this Reindeer Chow Recipe? We would love for you to leave a comment and rating, if so! And don’t forget to follow and tag us in your creations on Instagram! We can’t wait to connect.