Cupid Chow is a festive and fun snack mix, perfect for Valentine’s Day or any time you want a sweet treat to share with loved ones. This recipe combines crunchy cereal, creamy chocolate, and colorful candies for an irresistibly delicious dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to make: No baking required, just melt, mix, and toss.
- Customizable: Easily swap ingredients to match your taste or dietary needs.
- Perfect for gifting: Package in cute bags or jars for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Kid-friendly: A fun recipe to make with little helpers.
- Addictive flavor: Sweet, salty, crunchy, and chocolatey all in one bite.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Rice Chex cereal
- White chocolate chips or melting wafers
- Powdered sugar
- Pink and red M&Ms
- Valentine’s Day sprinkles
- Pretzel twists (optional for a salty crunch)
Directions
- Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
- Coat the cereal: Pour the melted chocolate over the Rice Chex cereal and gently stir to coat evenly.
- Add the sugar: Transfer the coated cereal to a large zip-top bag, add powdered sugar, and shake until well coated.
- Mix it up: In a large bowl, combine the coated cereal, M&Ms, sprinkles, and pretzels (if using).
- Let it set: Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool and harden.
- Serve or store: Once set, serve immediately or transfer to an airtight container for later.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: About 10-12 servings
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes (including cooling)
Variations
- Chocolate lovers: Add mini chocolate chips or drizzle with milk chocolate.
- Nutty twist: Toss in chopped almonds, peanuts, or cashews.
- Fruity fun: Mix in dried strawberries or freeze-dried raspberries.
- Dairy-free option: Use dairy-free white chocolate and check candy labels.
- Gluten-free version: Ensure the cereal and other mix-ins are certified gluten-free.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep Cupid Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed bag for up to 2 months; let it come to room temp before serving.
- Reheating: No reheating necessary, but if chocolate softens, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes.
FAQs
How far in advance can I make Cupid Chow?
You can make it up to a week in advance if stored in an airtight container.
Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead of white?
Absolutely! Just note that it will change the flavor profile.
What if my chocolate seizes while melting?
Add a teaspoon of coconut oil or shortening and stir until smooth.
Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Yes! Just skip any nut additions and check ingredient labels for safety.
How do I package Cupid Chow for gifts?
Use cellophane bags, mason jars, or decorative tins tied with a ribbon.
Is this recipe safe for kids with allergies?
It can be! Choose allergy-friendly chocolate and candies.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just make sure you have a big enough mixing bowl!
What can I use instead of powdered sugar?
Try finely ground freeze-dried strawberries for a fruity coating.
Will the cereal stay crunchy?
Yes, as long as you store it in an airtight container.
Can I add popcorn to the mix?
Definitely! Popcorn adds a light, airy crunch that pairs well with the cereal.
Conclusion
Cupid Chow is the perfect easy, festive snack for Valentine’s Day or any occasion where you want to spread a little love. With endless customization options and a delightful mix of textures, it’s sure to become a crowd favorite. So whip up a batch, share with friends and family, and enjoy every sweet, crunchy bite!
Print
Cupid Chow Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 cups 1x
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fun and easy-to-make snack mix featuring chocolate and peanut butter-coated cereal, dusted with powdered sugar, and mixed with festive candies and sprinkles. Ideal for Valentine’s Day celebrations or as a sweet gift.
Ingredients
- 9 cups Chex cereal
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup Valentine’s-themed M&M’s or similar candy-coated chocolates
- Assorted Valentine’s sprinkles
Instructions
- Prepare the Cereal: Place the Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
- Melt the Chocolate Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, and unsalted butter. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. If needed, microwave in additional 15-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth.
- Add Vanilla: Stir the vanilla extract into the melted chocolate mixture until well combined.
- Coat the Cereal: Pour the chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the Chex cereal. Gently fold until all the cereal pieces are evenly coated.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Transfer the coated cereal into a large resealable plastic bag. Add the powdered sugar, seal the bag, and shake vigorously until all pieces are well coated and no longer sticky.
- Incorporate Add-ins: Pour the powdered sugar-coated cereal back into the mixing bowl. Add the Valentine’s-themed M&M’s and sprinkles, gently stirring to distribute them evenly throughout the mix.
- Serve or Store: Once fully mixed, serve the Cupid Chow immediately or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Notes
- For a different flavor profile, white chocolate chips can be used in place of milk chocolate chips.
- Feel free to customize the mix-ins with your favorite candies or nuts to suit your preferences.
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