Peanut Butter S'mores Crunch
Indulge in the ultimate treat with our Peanut Butter S'mores Crunch – a delightful twist on the classic puppy chow recipe. This irresistible blend of creamy peanut butter, semi-sweet chocolate, and marshmallow fluff envelops crispy Chex cereal for a satisfying crunch. Topped with mini marshmallows, crushed graham crackers, and a colorful array of candy, this sweet snack is perfect for parties, movie nights, or a fun afternoon treat with friends and family. No campfire required, just simple ingredients and quick prep time to enjoy a delicious taste of s'mores at home!
12
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 1/2 cups (divided)
smooth peanut butter
1/2 cup (none)
marshmallow cream
1 cup (none)
Chex cereal
6 cups (none)
powdered sugar
1 1/2 cups (none)
mini marshmallows
1 cup (none)
crushed graham cracker
1/2 cup (crushed)
peanut butter M&Ms
1/2 cup (none)
miniature peanut butter cups
1/2 cup (chopped)
chopped dry roasted salted peanuts
1/2 cup (chopped)
Instructions
1
Start by lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2
In a large, nonstick pot over medium heat, combine 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1/2 cup of smooth peanut butter.
3
Stir continuously until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to let it burn.
4
Once melted, remove the pot from heat and immediately add 1 cup of marshmallow cream, stirring until well-combined and creamy.
5
Gently fold in 6 cups of Chex cereal with a rubber spatula until each piece is evenly coated with the chocolate-peanut butter mixture.
6
Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of powdered sugar over the coated cereal, and carefully mix until all pieces are coated.
7
Transfer the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out evenly with your spatula.
8
Generously top the mixture with the remaining 1/2 cup of chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, crushed graham cracker, peanut butter M&Ms, chopped miniature peanut butter cups, and chopped dry roasted peanuts, pressing down slightly for them to stick.
9
Allow the mixture to cool completely before serving. Break it into clusters for the perfect crunchy snack!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Peanut Butter S'mores Crunch?
It is a sweet and crunchy snack made from Chex cereal coated in a mixture of peanut butter, chocolate, and marshmallow cream, then topped with s'mores-inspired ingredients.
Is this a no-bake recipe?
Yes, this recipe is entirely no-bake, requiring only a stovetop to melt the chocolate and peanut butter base.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 12 servings, depending on the size of the clusters.
What type of cereal is best for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for 6 cups of Chex cereal, which provides the perfect surface for the chocolate and peanut butter coating.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
Yes, you can substitute smooth peanut butter with crunchy peanut butter if you prefer extra texture in the cereal coating.
How do I prevent the crunch from sticking to the pan?
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper before spreading the mixture to ensure it releases easily once cooled.
What kind of chocolate chips should I use?
The recipe recommends semi-sweet chocolate chips to balance the sweetness of the marshmallow and powdered sugar.
How much marshmallow cream is needed?
You will need 1 cup of marshmallow cream, also known as marshmallow fluff, to mix into the chocolate and peanut butter base.
Is the chocolate added all at once?
No, the chocolate chips are divided: 1 cup is melted into the base and the remaining 1/2 cup is used as a topping.
What is the role of the powdered sugar?
The powdered sugar is sprinkled over the coated cereal to help separate the pieces and provide the classic 'puppy chow' finish.
What toppings are included in this s'mores version?
Toppings include mini marshmallows, crushed graham crackers, peanut butter M&Ms, chopped miniature peanut butter cups, and dry roasted peanuts.
How do I crush the graham crackers?
You can place the graham crackers in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or heavy spoon until they are in small pieces.
Do I need a special pot for melting the ingredients?
A large, nonstick pot is recommended to prevent the chocolate and peanut butter from burning or sticking to the sides.
Can I use a microwave to melt the base?
Yes, you can melt the chocolate and peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
How do I fold in the cereal without breaking it?
Use a rubber spatula to gently fold the cereal into the mixture, lifting from the bottom to ensure even coating without crushing the squares.
How long should the mixture cool before eating?
Allow the mixture to cool completely on the baking sheet until the chocolate has set and the clusters are firm.
What is the best way to serve the Peanut Butter S'mores Crunch?
Once cooled, break the sheet of cereal into small clusters and serve in a large bowl for easy snacking.
How should I store leftovers?
Store the snack in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunch and prevent the marshmallows from getting stale.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it is a fun and easy recipe for kids to help with, especially when it comes to sprinkling the toppings and breaking the cooled snack into pieces.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, ensure you use a gluten-free certified Chex cereal and use gluten-free graham cracker substitutes.
What kind of peanuts are used?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of chopped dry roasted salted peanuts for a savory crunch.
Can I use milk chocolate chips instead?
Yes, milk chocolate chips can be used if you prefer a sweeter, creamier chocolate profile than semi-sweet.
What makes this different from standard puppy chow?
This version adds marshmallow cream into the base and includes various candy and graham cracker toppings for a s'mores flavor profile.
How do I make sure the toppings stick?
After spreading the mixture on the sheet and adding toppings, press down slightly with your hand or a spatula to embed them into the warm coating.
Can I double the recipe for a party?
Yes, you can double the ingredients; just ensure you use a large enough pot and multiple baking sheets for cooling.
Is it okay to use salted butter or peanut butter?
Most smooth peanut butters contain salt, which is fine as it helps balance the sweet ingredients in the recipe.
Can I substitute the peanut butter M&Ms?
Yes, you can use regular M&Ms, Reese's Pieces, or any other small chocolate candy you enjoy.
How long does it take to prepare?
The prep time is very quick, usually taking about 15 to 20 minutes before the cooling process begins.
Can I add pretzels to this mix?
Adding broken pretzel pieces is a great way to add even more salt and crunch to the recipe.
Why is it called 'Crunch'?
The name comes from the satisfying texture provided by the Chex cereal, graham crackers, and peanuts.