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Peppermint Bark Reindeer Chow: Easy Holiday Snack Mix for Parties

Peppermint Bark Reindeer Chow - featured image

Peppermint Bark Reindeer Chow is a festive, crunchy snack mix featuring chocolate, peppermint, and classic holiday mix-ins. Quick to make and perfect for parties, gifting, or cozy nights in, it delivers nostalgic comfort with every bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups corn or rice square cereal (e.g. Chex, about 180g)
  • 2 cups pretzel twists or sticks (about 60g)
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows (about 50g)
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips or melting wafers (about 170g)
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (about 170g)
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil or vegetable shortening (about 28g)
  • 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes (about 60g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional)
  • 1/2 cup red and green M&Ms or holiday chocolate candies (about 60g)
  • Extra crushed candy canes, for topping
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (about 120g)

Instructions

  1. Measure out 6 cups corn or rice cereal into a large mixing bowl. Add 2 cups pretzel twists and 1 cup mini marshmallows. Set aside.
  2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup white chocolate chips and 1 tablespoon coconut oil. Microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth (about 1–2 minutes). Repeat in a separate bowl with 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips and remaining coconut oil.
  3. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the cereal mix. Stir gently with a spatula until mostly coated. Next, drizzle the semi-sweet chocolate and stir again until everything is lightly coated.
  4. Sprinkle in 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes. If desired, add 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract to the chocolate before drizzling. Stir until the peppermint is evenly distributed.
  5. Add 1/2 cup red and green M&Ms, plus any other mix-ins you love. Stir gently to avoid breaking the cereal.
  6. Transfer the mixture to a large zip-top bag (or two, if needed). Add 1 cup powdered sugar. Seal the bag and shake until everything is coated in a snowy layer. Alternatively, toss in a large bowl with a lid and shake.
  7. Spread the snack mix onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let it cool for 15 minutes to let the chocolate set. Chill in the fridge for 10 minutes if needed for extra crunch.
  8. Once set, break up any large clumps. Pour into a festive bowl, jar, or gift bag. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free cereal and pretzels. For dairy-free, use vegan chocolate chips and marshmallows. Crush peppermint candies finely for best texture. Don’t rush the cooling step for maximum crunch. Add a pinch of sea salt or dried cranberries for extra flavor. Store airtight for up to a week or freeze for up to a month.

Nutrition

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