Have you ever wondered how to whip up a delightful snack that your pup will love? Picture this: A rainy Saturday afternoon, and you’re curled up at home. Your dog gazes at you with those big, hopeful eyes, begging for a treat. What if I told you that making something special for them doesn’t have to be a chore?
Today, I will share my favorite recipe for extra good puppy chow. Along with it, we’ll delve into delicious pairings, insightful tips, and what makes this puppy chow a cut above the rest.
Let’s be honest. Dogs are family. When we prepare food for our loved ones, we want it to be nutritious, tasty, and made with love. It’s no different when it comes to our furry companions.
This extra good puppy chow isn’t just a fun snack; it’s filled with wholesome ingredients that will make your pup wag their tail with joy. Get ready to delight your canine friends with a homemade treat that’s sure to be a hit!
Pairing Recommendations
Here’s the fun part: Think about accompaniments! Just like how a good pasta benefits from the right sauce, your puppy chow can be enjoyed with other goodies. You might consider:
Fresh Veggies: Sliced carrots or green beans help balance the sweetness of puppy chow.
Yogurt Drops: A great way to add creaminess and a probiotic boost.
Homemade Dog Biscuits: Add a crunchy texture and even more flavors.
Fresh Fruits: Berries or apple slices (without seeds) can be a refreshing addition.
Now that I’ve got your interest, let’s get into what we really came here for!
What is Extra Good Puppy Chow?
Extra good puppy chow is a delightful blend of crunchy cereal, creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate, and a touch of sweetness. But let’s break it down further to see why it works so well.
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Why This Recipe Works?
Nutritious Ingredients: All the goodies in this recipe are dog-friendly. The peanut butter is a good source of protein, and the Rice Chex cereal is low in sugar. Healthy treats mean happier dogs!
Easy to Make: Even if you’re not the next Top Chef, this recipe is simple. You don’t need fancy techniques or odd kitchen gadgets. Just your trusty mixing bowl and a spoon.
Customizable: Don’t have specific ingredients on hand? No problem! This recipe allows for flexibility. Let your creativity flow!
Tail-Wagging Good: The flavor combinations are a winner. Dogs love peanut butter, and the chocolate (safe for pets due to being in a controlled environment) adds a rich twist that makes this treat irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Extra Good Puppy Chow
Here’s what you’ll need. Gather these and get ready to mix!
1 cup creamy peanut butter
12-oz. box of Rice Chex cereal (which is about 10 cups)
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate morsels
½ cup unsalted butter
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 cups powdered sugar (add more if desired for extra sweetness)
Pinch of fine sea salt
½ teaspoon espresso powder (optional but enhances the chocolate flavor)
¼ teaspoon cinnamon (gives a warm and inviting touch)
How to Make These?
Now for the fun part – let’s get to creating your extra good puppy chow!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
First things first, make sure you have everything in front of you. Pre-measure the ingredients to streamline the process.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate morsels and butter. Heat in short intervals, stirring after each, until it’s smooth. Be patient; chocolate burns easily!
Step 3: Mix in Peanut Butter
Now, add in that creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined. The mixture will be luscious and creamy.
Step 4: Combine with Cereal
In a large mixing bowl, pour in the Rice Chex cereal. Gently fold in the melted chocolate and peanut butter mixture, being careful not to crush the cereal.
Step 5: Add the Sweetness
Once coated, sprinkle in the powdered sugar, sea salt, cinnamon, and espresso powder (if using). Mix well to ensure every piece is covered. You want that sweet flavor throughout!
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow it to cool. Once it’s set, you can toss it around to break it into pieces. Your puppy chow is ready!
Tips for Best Results
Quality Ingredients Matter: Invest in good chocolate and peanut butter. Your pup will taste the difference!
Keep Puppies Nearby: Make sure to feed this delicacy in moderation and keep an eye on your dogs. They may get a little too excited.
Perfect Timing: Allow the mixture to cool completely before serving. It helps the flavors meld perfectly.
Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Paw-sitive Reinforcement: Make your dog associate this treat with good behavior. It helps with training sessions!
Nutrition Information
It’s important to note that while this puppy chow is a treat, moderation is key. Here’s a rough breakdown per serving (based on the total dish being served as a treat):
Calories: 150
Protein: 4g
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Always consult with your vet, especially if your dog has special dietary needs.
How to Store the Leftovers?
Store any leftover puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you happen to have a larger batch, it can be frozen for a month. Just remember, freshness is what makes this treat shine!
Recommended Side Dishes for Extra Good Puppy Chow
What about pairing your extra good puppy chow with some fun side dishes? Here are four options you can consider:
Peanut Butter Filled Kongs: These are a fantastic way to keep your dog occupied. Fill them with a bit of peanut butter and freeze for a special treat.
Chicken Jerky: A protein-packed snack that complements the sweetness of the puppy chow quite well.
Carrot and Apple Slices: These are crunchy and refreshing. They help balance out any richness while providing extra nutrients.
Pumpkin Puree: A dollop of pumpkin is great for your dog’s digestion and adds a special touch to their mealtime.
Substitute Options for Ingredients
Sometimes, life gets in the way, and you might not have everything on hand. Here are some substitute options for ingredients:
Peanut Butter: Almond butter or sunflower seed butter works just fine. Both are delicious and dog-friendly.
Rice Chex Cereal: Try Corn Chex or even rolled oats for a different texture.
Semi-sweet Chocolate Morsels: Dark chocolate (in controlled amounts) can be a fun alternative. Just be cautious with ingredients that are toxic to dogs.
Vanilla Extract: If you’re out, you can use almond extract as a substitute. Just a tiny drop will do!
Extra Good Puppy Chow
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 12- oz. box of Rice Chex cereal which is about 10 cups
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate morsels
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar add more if desired for extra sweetness
- Pinch of fine sea salt
- ½ teaspoon espresso powder optional but enhances the chocolate flavor
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon gives a warm and inviting touch
Instructions
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
- First things first, make sure you have everything in front of you. Pre-measure the ingredients to streamline the process.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate morsels and butter. Heat in short intervals, stirring after each, until it’s smooth. Be patient; chocolate burns easily!
Step 3: Mix in Peanut Butter
- Now, add in that creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined. The mixture will be luscious and creamy.
Step 4: Combine with Cereal
- In a large mixing bowl, pour in the Rice Chex cereal. Gently fold in the melted chocolate and peanut butter mixture, being careful not to crush the cereal.
Step 5: Add the Sweetness
- Once coated, sprinkle in the powdered sugar, sea salt, cinnamon, and espresso powder (if using). Mix well to ensure every piece is covered. You want that sweet flavor throughout!
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow it to cool. Once it’s set, you can toss it around to break it into pieces. Your puppy chow is ready!
Notes
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Invest in good chocolate and peanut butter. Your pup will taste the difference!
- Keep Puppies Nearby: Make sure to feed this delicacy in moderation and keep an eye on your dogs. They may get a little too excited.
- Perfect Timing: Allow the mixture to cool completely before serving. It helps the flavors meld perfectly.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Paw-sitive Reinforcement: Make your dog associate this treat with good behavior. It helps with training sessions!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can my dog have chocolate?
While I recommended semi-sweet chocolate for our recipe, it’s crucial to avoid giving your dog any chocolate in large amounts. This puppy chow uses it in moderation and is safe when prepared with care.
2. How often can I give my dog puppy chow?
As with any treat, moderation is key. Limit it to a few pieces a week, depending on your dog’s size and health.
3. What are the signs of a chocolate reaction in dogs?
Watch for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, or increased heart rate. If you notice anything unusual, consult your vet right away.
4. Can this recipe be made in bulk?
Absolutely! Just be sure to increase each ingredient proportionally and store extras properly.
5. How can I make this puppy chow more nutrient-dense?
Consider adding dog-safe supplements or incorporating ingredients like oats or pumpkin puree for additional health benefits.
Conclusion
Making extra good puppy chow is not just about treating your dog; it’s about connecting with them through food. This recipe is a unique blend of sweetness, crunch, and love. It’s an opportunity to show your furry friend how much you care. Remember, although treats are enjoyable, balance is essential in a well-rounded diet.
So, let’s embrace the joy of treating our pups while watching them wag their tails in delight! Enjoy this creative adventure in your kitchen, and watch as your beloved companion eagerly devours this special snack. Happy cooking, and may your dog’s excitement be infectious!
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more