Salted Caramel Pretzel Puppy Chow

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Sweet, salty, and totally addictive—Salted Caramel Pretzel Puppy Chow is the no-bake snack mix you didn’t know you needed. Packed with crunchy Chex cereal, crispy mini pretzels, melty chocolate, and a snowy coating of powdered sugar, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re making a big batch for movie night, game day, or just because, this twist on classic puppy chow brings that irresistible balance of salty caramel and sweet crunch.

Each bite bursts with a combination of smooth chocolate, a hint of sea salt, and crispy textures. It’s a snack that’s dangerously easy to eat by the handful and even easier to make in under 15 minutes. It stores beautifully, making it a great make-ahead treat or edible gift.

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Why You’ll Love This Salted Caramel Pretzel Puppy Chow

• No baking required – just a few quick steps and you’re done.
• Sweet and salty flavor bomb – with melted chocolate, caramel undertones, and crunchy salted pretzels.
• Perfect for sharing – makes a big batch that’s ideal for parties, lunchbox treats, or edible gifts.
• Customizable – add nuts, swap cereals, drizzle with white chocolate…you do you!

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Can I Use Different Types of Cereal or Pretzels?

Yes! While Chex cereal (rice or corn) is a favorite for its light texture and ability to soak up the chocolate-caramel mixture, you can also use Crispix, Golden Grahams, or even mini popcorn for extra variety. As for pretzels, mini twists work great, but pretzel sticks or snaps will also do the trick. Just aim for a shape that adds a good crunch and holds up to mixing.

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Ingredients for the Salted Caramel Pretzel Puppy Chow

This recipe blends a handful of pantry staples for a fast and satisfying treat.

• Rice or Corn Chex Cereal: The base of the mix, these light and crispy squares are perfect for absorbing the gooey coating.
• Mini Pretzels: Add a salty crunch and contrast beautifully with the sweet chocolate.
• Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips melt into the rich base of the mix.
• Caramel Sauce: A swirl of store-bought or homemade caramel adds buttery richness.
• Powdered Sugar: This is what gives the mix its iconic snowy finish and keeps things from sticking together.
• Butter: Helps melt the chocolate and adds flavor depth.
• Sea Salt: Just a pinch to enhance the caramel and chocolate combo.

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How To Make the Salted Caramel Pretzel Puppy Chow

Step 1: Melt the Chocolate & Caramel

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, caramel sauce, and butter. Microwave in 20-30 second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth and glossy.

Step 2: Mix It All Together

Place your Chex cereal and mini pretzels in a large bowl. Pour the warm chocolate-caramel mixture over and gently stir with a spatula until everything is evenly coated.

Step 3: Powdered Sugar Shake

Transfer the coated mix into a large zip-top bag or container with a lid. Add powdered sugar, seal, and shake until all pieces are well coated.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

Spread the mix on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool and set. Once dry, transfer to an airtight container or serving bowl.

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Serving and Storing Salted Caramel Pretzel Puppy Chow

This recipe makes about 8 cups, which can serve 8-10 snack-sized portions or more if used in party bags or jars.

To store, keep the mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer freshness, refrigerate or freeze it—just bring it back to room temp before serving to restore the crunch.

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What to Serve With Salted Caramel Pretzel Puppy Chow?

Chocolate Dipped Fruit

Pair the sweet-salty mix with fresh fruit like strawberries or apple slices dipped in chocolate for a juicy contrast.

Coffee or Hot Chocolate

Serve with a cozy mug of your favorite warm drink—the bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness beautifully.

Trail Mix or Nut Mixes

Create a snack board with this puppy chow alongside roasted nuts or spicy trail mix for a blend of textures and flavors.

Cheese Cubes or a Savory Board

The sweetness pairs surprisingly well with mild cheddar or brie—try it!

Ice Cream Topping

Use it as a topping for vanilla or caramel ice cream. That added crunch is everything.

Popcorn

Mix it with lightly salted or caramel popcorn for a mega snack combo.

Mini Donuts or Muffins

Serve with a tray of baked goods like mini donuts or muffins for a brunch snack spread.

Sparkling Water or Soda

A fizzy drink helps refresh your palate between handfuls.

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Want More No-Bake Treat Ideas?

If this Salted Caramel Pretzel Puppy Chow made your snack table shine, you’ll love these other quick-fix favorites:

• Easy Cheesecake Cups for a creamy, dreamy bite.
• No-Bake Preacher Cookies if you’re after classic comfort in a flash.
• Black Bean Brownies for a secretly healthy twist.
• Banana Bread Cookies if you’re craving a soft, cakey treat.
• Lemon Churro Cookies when you want tangy meets cozy.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest snack board so you can come back to it anytime.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go heavy on the salt or try a drizzle of white chocolate? Maybe added peanut butter? I love hearing how you make these your own.

Explore beautifully curated sweet and savory snack recipes on Nora Nosh Recipes and discover your next obsession!

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