Reindeer Chow (Holiday Muddy Buddies) Recipe

 

If you’re looking for a simple, no-stress holiday recipe that doubles as a fun activity with your little ones, this Reindeer Chow is about to become a seasonal household favorite! It’s the classic muddy buddies everyone loves, just dressed up for the holidays with festive colors and add-ins.

This recipe is easy and kid-friendly, making it perfect for snack time, holiday parties, gift bags, or even a cozy afternoon activity when you want something festive without a big mess!

Why We Love Making Reindeer Chow with Kids

Reindeer Chow isn’t just a snack, it’s a holiday experience and memory! Little hands can help pour, mix, shake, and sprinkle, which makes this recipe perfect for young learners. It’s also a great way to practice following directions, measuring, and kitchen independence in a low-pressure, fun way.

 

Reindeer Chow Ingredients

You’ll need:

• 9 cups (or whole box) of Chex cereal
  
  
• 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips or baking chocolate
  
  
• Holiday Colored M&M’s
  
  
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  
  
• 1 1/2 cups of powdered sugar
  
  
• 1/2 cup of peanut butter (or your family’s favorite nut butter… sunflower butter is a great allergy-friendly option)
  
  
• 1/4 cup of butter or margarine

 

Optional Add-Ins (Totally Customize It!)

• Pretzels for a salty crunch
  
  
• Peanuts
  
  
• Cheerios
  
  
• Crushed candy canes for a minty holiday twist
  
  

 

How to Make Reindeer Chow (Step-by-Step)

Step 1:

Pour the Chex cereal into a large bowl and set it aside.

Step 2:

In a separate microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate, peanut butter, and butter. Once melted, add in the vanilla.

Step 3:

Pour the mixture over the Chex cereal and gently stir until all the cereal is evenly coated.

Step 4:

Transfer the coated Chex into a large zip-top bag. Add powdered sugar, seal the bag, and shake until every piece is fully coated (kids LOVE this part).

Step 5:

Pour the chow back into a bowl and mix in the holiday M&M’s and any optional add-ins you choose.

Step 6:

Serve immediately… or let your little reindeer chow down at snack time or parties!

Make It a Homeschool Holiday Moment

This recipe is perfect for:

• Holiday-themed homeschool days
  
  
• Kitchen learning with young kids
  
  
• Class parties or co-op gatherings
  
  
• Gift bags
  
  
• A cozy afternoon activity during December
  

It’s simple, festive, and full of joy, just the way holiday learning should be!

Find more fun, easy, no prep, seasonal learning activities on our winter learning page!