Matcha Puppy Chow, also known as Muddy Buddies, is a fun and flavorful treat that combines the earthy flavor of matcha with the sweetness of white chocolate. This easy-to-make snack is perfect for the holidays, as it only requires six simple ingredients and can be prepared in under 15 minutes. A unique twist on the classic, this recipe infuses both the white chocolate and powdered sugar with matcha powder for a double dose of matcha goodness. It’s a must-try for matcha lovers!

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 1 cup (170g) couverture white chocolate chips

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 4 1/2 teaspoons (10g) matcha powder

• 4 cups Chex rice cereal

• 1 cup (210g) powdered sugar

• 2 teaspoons matcha powder (for the coating)

Directions

1. Melt the White Chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, add white chocolate and salt. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water, making sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Stir gently until the chocolate melts completely.

2. Sift and Mix Matcha: Sift the matcha powder into the melted white chocolate to remove any clumps, then stir to combine until smooth.

3. Coat the Cereal: In a large mixing bowl, add the Chex cereal. Gradually pour in the matcha chocolate in three batches, folding gently with a rubber spatula to coat each piece evenly. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.

4. Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and matcha powder.

5. Toss with Powdered Sugar: Once the chocolate-covered Chex cereal has cooled, transfer it into a large ziplock bag with the powdered sugar mixture. Seal the bag and shake well until the cereal is evenly coated.

6. Chill and Serve: Spread the coated Chex on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to set. Store in an airtight container.

Nutrients

• Serving Size: 1g

• Calories: 81 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 16g

• Protein: 1g

• Fat: 2g

• Saturated Fat: 1g

• Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g

• Cholesterol: 1mg

• Sodium: 108mg

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 5g

The Allure of Matcha in Sweets

Matcha has become a popular ingredient in both savory and sweet dishes, and for good reason. Rich in antioxidants and known for its smooth, calming properties, matcha brings a vibrant flavor and color to any recipe. In desserts, it adds a lovely depth of flavor, with its earthy, slightly bitter taste balancing well with sweet ingredients. When used in Puppy Chow, matcha provides a distinct twist to the traditional flavor profile, adding complexity while still retaining the snack’s beloved sweetness. The green hue of matcha also makes for a visually appealing treat, giving the Puppy Chow a fun and festive look that’s perfect for holidays or any special occasion.

Why Matcha Puppy Chow is Perfect for the Holidays

Matcha Puppy Chow is an excellent snack to serve during the holiday season or at any gathering. The preparation is quick and easy, requiring only about 15 minutes of your time, which makes it an ideal option when you’re looking for a simple yet delightful treat. The snack is also versatile, easily adaptable to different dietary preferences. It’s a great option for those who enjoy vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free treats, as it can be customized to fit various needs. The vibrant green color and unique flavor make this Puppy Chow an eye-catching addition to any holiday table or party spread, and it’s sure to spark conversations among guests.

How to Make Matcha Puppy Chow: Simple and Fun

One of the best things about Matcha Puppy Chow is how easy it is to make. The recipe requires only six ingredients, making it a simple treat to whip up. The key ingredients in this recipe include Chex rice cereal, white chocolate, matcha powder, salt, powdered sugar, and more matcha powder for the coating. The process is quick and requires minimal effort, allowing you to create a batch of this delicious snack in no time. The first step involves melting the white chocolate and mixing it with matcha powder, ensuring that the chocolate is completely smooth. The next step involves coating the Chex cereal with this matcha-infused chocolate mixture, and once the cereal is thoroughly coated, it’s time to toss the mixture in powdered sugar and more matcha for that signature sweetness and green color. A quick chill in the fridge, and your Matcha Puppy Chow is ready to serve!

The Perfect Balance of Sweetness and Earthiness

One of the standout features of Matcha Puppy Chow is the perfect balance of flavors. The rich, creamy sweetness of white chocolate provides a smooth backdrop for the slightly bitter, grassy flavor of matcha. When combined with the crunch of Chex cereal, the result is a satisfying treat that combines sweetness with a hint of earthiness. The powdered sugar coating adds an extra layer of sweetness, while the additional matcha powder in the coating enhances the overall flavor, ensuring that each piece of cereal is coated in both sweetness and a bold matcha flavor. The end result is a snack that’s both indulgent and refreshing, offering the best of both worlds.

The Appeal of the Crunchy Cereal Base

The texture of Matcha Puppy Chow is another element that contributes to its widespread popularity. The Chex rice cereal base provides the perfect amount of crunch, offering a satisfying contrast to the smoothness of the melted white chocolate and the powdered sugar coating. The crunchiness makes each bite fun and enjoyable, while the lightness of the cereal ensures that the snack doesn’t feel too heavy, even with the added sweetness. This combination of textures is one of the reasons why Puppy Chow is such a beloved treat. The chewiness of other desserts may not appeal to everyone, but the crisp texture of Chex cereal ensures that Matcha Puppy Chow is universally satisfying.

Customization and Variations

While the Matcha Puppy Chow recipe is fantastic as it is, it can also be easily customized to suit your preferences. For a more intense matcha flavor, you can add a little more matcha powder to the chocolate mixture or the coating. You could even experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate or milk chocolate, to alter the flavor profile. If you’re looking to add a touch of crunch or extra flavor, consider tossing in a handful of nuts, like almonds or cashews, or adding dried fruit such as cranberries or raisins. For a more festive touch, you could add sprinkles or edible glitter to make the treat even more visually appealing, especially for holiday events. The possibilities are endless when it comes to customization, allowing you to make this snack your own.

Perfect for Gift Giving

Matcha Puppy Chow also makes an excellent homemade gift. If you’re looking for a creative and thoughtful present for friends or family, this snack is both easy to make and delightful to receive. Simply package the Puppy Chow in a cute jar, gift box, or decorative bag, and add a festive ribbon or tag for a personal touch. The vibrant green color is perfect for holiday gifting, and the unique matcha flavor offers something special that is sure to stand out. Not only is the treat delicious, but it’s also a great conversation starter, as many people may not have tried matcha in a sweet treat before.

Storage and Shelf Life

After preparing Matcha Puppy Chow, it’s important to store it properly to keep it fresh. The snack should be kept in an airtight container at room temperature, where it will stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to make it ahead of time, you can also refrigerate it for a longer shelf life. However, keep in mind that the texture may change slightly if kept in the fridge for an extended period of time. To maintain the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to enjoy this snack within a week of making it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Matcha Puppy Chow is a delightful and easy-to-make snack that offers a unique twist on the classic Muddy Buddies recipe. Its combination of crunchy Chex cereal, creamy white chocolate, and earthy matcha powder creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re making it for a holiday celebration, a gift, or simply as a fun treat for yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. The versatility of the ingredients allows for endless customization, so you can experiment with flavors and textures to suit your tastes. The quick preparation time and minimal ingredients make it an accessible recipe for anyone to try. So, if you’re a matcha lover or looking to try something new, this Matcha Puppy Chow is a must-try treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your snack rotation.