Whether you call it Chex Mix, Puppy Chow, or Muddy Buddies, this dessert is a classic treat! It might be messy, but I just can’t resist scooping up spoonful after spoonful of this fun treat. I’m not sure if it’s the peanut butter coating or the crunch of the cereal, but something about it is seriously addictive!

Why All The Funny Names?

I’m pretty sure the name you use for this treat depends on where you live, or maybe your family traditions. “Puppy Chow” started in the Midwest and is a classic staple at gatherings. It got that name from its resemblance to real dog treats called kibble. Plus, Chex was made by the same company (Purina) that makes dog food!

“Muddy Buddies” is the name General Mills gave to this treat, printing it on cereal boxes when sharing their own recipe for this sugary treat.

Since I have readers that live all over, I decided to use the title Chex Mix, since we are basing our recipe around that cereal. But you’ll see me use all three terms in this post, just for fun!

What do you call it?

Ingredients for 4^th of July Chex Mix

You’ll need the following ingredients for this patriotic snack mix:

• Rice Chex cereal
• White chocolate chips
• Creamy peanut butter
• Unsalted butter
• Pure vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar
• Mini pretzels (I used Snyder’s Mini Pretzel Rounds)
• Red, White, and Blue M&Ms
• Red, White, and Blue Mini Swedish Fish

If you have a hard time finding the candy in the store, I linked them to Amazon above and in the recipe card, so you can buy them online!

Be sure to check out the recipe card at the end of the post for a detailed ingredient list and instructions!

How to make 4^th of July Chex Mix

This patriotic Chex Mix is really easy to make and doesn’t require any baking at all, making it perfect for summer!

1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Place 6 cups of Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
2. In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup white chocolate chips, ½ cup creamy peanut butter, and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. Next, stir in 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract.
3. Pour the melted chocolate mixture all over the cereal. Gently stir with a spatula until the cereal is evenly coated. Then spread the chocolate-covered cereal on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool, and let the chocolate dry completely.
4. In a large bowl, sprinkle the powdered sugar over the coated cereal. Gently toss until the cereal is pretty evenly coated. Alternatively, place the cereal in a Ziploc bag with the powdered sugar and gently shake to coat.
5. Add 1 ½ cups mini pretzels, 1 ½ cups M&M’s, and 1 1/2 cups Swedish Fish. Gently mix to distribute evenly. Serve and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

• Transfer the 4th of July Puppy Chow to a festive serving bowl.
• For a festive touch, serve in individual patriotic cups, so people can just grab and go!

FAQs

What substitutions can I make?

• Cereal: You can swap out the Rice Chex for other crispy cereals like Corn Chex or Crispix cereal.
• Chocolate: I used white chocolate chips for my 4^th of July Muddy Buddies to highlight the patriotic colors, but you could use milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips too.
• Peanut Butter: Swap out peanut butter for other nut butters if you need a peanut-free option. I’m partial to sunflower seed butter.
• Candy: Add additional or different red, white and blue treats to your 4th of July snack mix: Mike and Ike Candies, Sour Patch Kids, Jelly Belly Jelly Beans, Peanut M&M’s

How do I store 4^th of July Chex Mix?

Store it in an airtight container for 1-2 weeks at room temperature. You can also store it in the fridge if you like it chilled.

Can you freeze Patriotic Puppy Chow?

Yes, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. You can actually eat it straight from the freezer for a delicious, refreshing snack, but watch those frozen candies and don’t break a tooth! I would leave it out to thaw for a few hours in that case.

More Patriotic Desserts

Need a red, white, and blue-themed dessert to serve your guests or bring to a potluck? Try one of these easy recipes:

• Patriotic Poke Cake
• Patriotic Jello Dessert
• Red, White, and Blue Dream Bars
• Berry Trifle
• 4^th of July Strawberries

Pin or print this 4^th of July Chex Mix recipe for your next patriotic holiday gathering!

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4th of July Chex Mix

4th of July Chex Mix is the perfect sweet and salty dessert for Memorial Day and beyond! Spruce up your classic muddy buddies by adding salty pretzels and sweet patriotic-themed candy for a fun treat!

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword 4th of July Chex Mix

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 15 minutes minutes

Servings 18 servings

Calories 330kcal

Author Lynne Feifer

Ingredients

• 6 cups Rice Chex cereal
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 ½ cups mini pretzels I used Snyder's Mini Pretzel Rounds for this recipe.
• 1 ½ cups Red, White, and Blue M&Ms
• 1 ½ cups Red, White and Blue Mini Swedish Fish

Instructions

• Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Place 6 cups of Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
• In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup whitechocolate chips, ½ cup creamy peanut butter, and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. Stir in 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract. 
• Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Gently stir with a spatula until the cereal is evenly coated. Spread the chocolate-covered cereal on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool, and let the chocolate dry completely. 
• In a large bowl, sprinkle the powdered sugar over the coated cereal. Gently toss until the cereal is pretty evenly coated.
• Add 1 ½ cups mini pretzels, 1 ½ cups M&M's and 1 1/2 cups Swedish Fish. Gently mix to distribute evenly. 
• Transfer the 4th of July Puppy Chow to a festive serving bowl or into individual plastic cups, so people can just grab and go. 

Notes

• Be gentle when combining the cereal with the chocolate and peanut butter mixture to avoid breaking the cereal. This will help maintain the desired crunchy texture. 
• Make sure each piece of cereal is evenly coated with the chocolate mixture.  
• Allow the mix to cool completely before adding the powdered sugar. This helps the sugar stick better and keeps the cereal from getting soggy. 
• Store this Patriotic Chex Mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. 
• Nutritional value has been calculated for 1/2 cup per person.
• Add additional or different red, white and blue treats to your 4th of July snack mix:
  Mike and Ike Candies – not in stock when this was published, but you can use any kind of red, white, and blue candy as a substitute.
  Sour Patch Kids
  Jelly Belly Jelly Beans
  Peanut M&M’s

Nutrition

Serving: 0.5cup | Calories: 330kcal | Carbohydrates: 50g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 8mg | Sodium: 215mg | Potassium: 102mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 30g | Vitamin A: 247IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 79mg | Iron: 4mg

The post 4th of July Chex Mix appeared first on 365 Days of Baking.

When I’m sitting at home working on the computer or bingeing my latest Netflix series, I love having something to munch on. Sometimes I want something sweet; other times, only a savory snack will do.

This Homemade Chex Mix is a little of both! Pretzels, crackers, and nuts provide that savory, salty taste, while M&Ms and slightly sweetened cereal give you just enough sugary goodness to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Is Making Your Own Chex Mix Worth It?

Hey, I know these days you can run to the grocery store and pick up a bag of Chex Mix to snack on. But have you seen the price of groceries lately? Now, admittedly, buying all the ingredients you need for this recipe takes a little chunk of change, but you can make way more Chex Mix than what comes in those store-bought bags.

Overall, it’s not only cheaper to make your own Chex Mix, but it’s healthier too as you can customize it exactly to your taste buds and preferences.

Ingredients for Chex Mix

Gather the following items to make your own snack mix:

• Rice Chex
• Honey-nut Chex
• Corn Chex
• Small pretzels
• Mixed nuts
• Cheez-its
• M&Ms (I suggest plain M&Ms for this recipe, but you can try other flavors)
• Butter, melted
• Garlic salt

The exact amounts and detailed instructions are in the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

How to Make Your Own Chex Mix

This recipe is super quick and easy! You may have to bake in batches, though if you don’t have a large baking sheet.

1.  First, preheat oven to 300℉ and line your cookie sheet with parchment paper. Melt butter in the microwave and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, mix together all of the Chex cereals, pretzels, nuts, and Cheez-its. 
3. Next, mix the garlic salt with the melted butter and slowly pour over the cereal mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon to incorporate the butter mixture into the cereal mixture. 
4. Add the whole mixture to your lined baking sheet in one even layer and bake for 15-20 minutes. 
5. Repeat step 4 if all of the Chex mix mixture doesn’t fit in one layer on your parchment paper. 
6. Set aside the Chex mix to cool completely. Then transfer it to a large bowl and stir in the M&M’s before serving. Enjoy!

FAQs

Can I use cereals that are different from the ones listed in the ingredients?

Of course! Add in any combination of Chex cereals that you like. Make sure to keep the overall amount of Chex cereal the same– 6 cups total of cereal. 

How do I store Chex Mix?

Chex mix is best fresh or the same day it is made, however, it will last up to a week in an airtight container or bag at room temperature. 

How will I know when it’s done baking in the oven?

The mixture should be lightly toasted. You’ll know it is done when the mixture starts to turn light golden brown. 

What else can I add to this snack mix?

You can add anything you like to snack on! Here are some suggestions:

• Dried fruit- this provides sweetness and a chewy texture
• Goldfish crackers- sub these for the Cheez-its, or use both!
• Bugles- you can use these instead of corn cereal or in addition to it.
• Potato sticks- I love the salty crunch these provide.
• Pumpkin seeds- salted pumpkin seeds are my favorite!
• Bagel chips- I like the sea salt variety best.
• Rye chips- crunchy and savory!
• Chopped beef jerky- may be out of the ordinary, but a fun savory addition!

What else would you add?

Snack Mix Recipes

You need a good snack mix recipe for every occasion! Here are some other Chex mix recipes I’ve created:

This Cookie Butter Snack Mix is great all year round with sweet and salty ingredients like Chex cereal, pretzels, granola bites, fruit snacks, and raisins, all tossed in decadent cookie butter!

This Funfetti Puppy Chow recipe is a crunchy, colorful snack mix with a cake batter twist. This one is for your sweet tooth, with Chex rice cereal tossed in a confetti frosting-like coating!

Christmas Snack Mix is perfect for the holidays! It is filled with salty pretzels and crunchy candy and then covered in melted white chocolate. 

This Halloween Snack Mix combines salty pretzel sticks and Bugles, crunchy pretzels, and sweet Halloween candy favorites like candy corn for a fun, spooky treat!

Valentine Snack Mix is the perfect sweet treat to share this year! Salty crackers and sweet holiday candies are covered in a delightful brown sugar glaze.

Easter Chex Mix combines the crunch of the pretzels and cereal squares with the sweetness of classic Easter candies like Peeps and jelly beans.

More Ways To Use Cereal

You can use other cereals besides Chex in your baking! Here are some favorite cereal-based recipes:

• No Bake Peanut Butter S’mores Cookies
• Reindeer Chow
• Lucky Charms Bark Recipe
• Fruity Pebbles Cookies
• Pantry Cookies
• All the Rice Krispie Treats….

Do you like sweet or savory snacks? Tell us your favorite in the comments below!

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Chex Mix

This classic Chex Mix recipe is crunchy and buttery with a hint of sweetness! Easy and quick to make, this sweet and salty snack mix is great for parties, game days, and as an after school snack, too!

Course Snacks

Cuisine American

Keyword Chex Mix Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 25 minutes minutes

Servings 10 cups

Calories 529kcal

Author Lynne Feifer

Ingredients

• 2 cups Rice Chex
• 2 cups Honey-nut Chex
• 2 cups Corn Chex
• 2 cups mini pretzels
• 1 cup mixed nuts
• 1 cup Cheez-its
• 1 cup M&M candies
• ½ cup butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons garlic salt

Instructions

•  Preheat oven to 300℉ and line your cookie sheet with parchment paper. 
• In a large bowl, mix together all of the chex cereal, pretzels, nuts, and cheeze-its. 
• Mix the garlic salt with the melted butter and slowly pour over the cereal mixture, stirring to incorporate the butter mixture in with the cereal mixture. 
• Add the whole mixture to your lined baking sheet in one layer and bake for 15-20 minutes. 
• Repeat step 4 if all of the chex mix mixture doesn’t fit in one layer on your parchment paper. 
• Allow to cool, then add to a bowl. Stir in the M&M’s before serving! 

Nutrition

Serving: 1cup | Calories: 529kcal | Carbohydrates: 67g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0.4g | Cholesterol: 35mg | Sodium: 1108mg | Potassium: 193mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 764IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 139mg | Iron: 9mg

The post Chex Mix Recipe appeared first on 365 Days of Baking.

Make this sweet snack mix for your guests to munch on at holiday parties, or give it as a last-minute neighbor gift! The holidays are busy, and this time of year, you might not always have time to whip up a batch of cookies or bake a fancy dessert. Make this Christmas snack mix recipe instead and enjoy it while you watch your favorite Christmas movie or wrap gifts!

Reindeer Chow Chex Mix

Everyone has their favorite Chex Mix recipe. I have a savory version I love to eat year-round. Whether you call this sweet version Christmas Crack, Reindeer Chow, or just Christmas Chex Mix, it will definitely become a new favorite! I love the crunchiness of the cereal with the sweet white chocolate, and Cadbury Mini Snowballs are one of my favorite candies! The pretzels add the perfect salty complement to all the sugar.

Ingredients for Christmas Snack Mix

Gather these simple ingredients to make this easy recipe:

• 3 cups Rice Chex cereal
• 3 cups Corn Chex cereal
• 2 cups pretzel snaps (you can also use pretzel sticks)
• 1 cup Cadbury Mini Snowballs
• 1 cup Christmas plain M&Ms
• 12 ounces white chocolate chips
• 1/3 cup crushed candy canes (divided)
• 1 tablespoon Christmas colored nonpareils (divided)

How to Make Easy Christmas Snack Mix

I love a good no-bake recipe! This snack mix is easy to throw together in about five minutes, though it does take a little longer to set up before you can serve it.

1. First, line a large, rimmed cookie sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the cereal, pretzels, mini Snowballs, and M&Ms.
3. In a medium microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips for 1 minute. Stir and melt again in 10-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Then mix in half of the crushed candy canes.
4. Pour the melted chocolate over the cereal mixture and sprinkle half of the nonpareils over the bowl. Stir gently to coat.
5. Spread the cereal mixture out on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, then sprinkle the remaining crushed candy canes and nonpareils over the entire pan. Refrigerate for 15 minutes (or let it sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes) to let it set.

Your Christmas snack mix is ready to serve and enjoy! Break it up and place it in a large serving bowl or platter for guests, or keep it in a bag for easy storage.

Also, make it your own by adding your favorite candies to it and use your favorite Chex cereal. I think this would be delicious with the Chocolate Chex!

Christmas Snack Mix Storage

You can store this sweet Chex mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. I think it tastes best within 2-4 days.

Can you freeze Peppermint Snack Mix?

You can freeze leftover snack mix in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw it at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

Christmas Snack Mix Recipes for Gifts

This delicious treat makes a perfect holiday gift. Here are some ways to dress it up:

• Give Christmas Snack Mix in a jar, like a clear mason jar. Just add a holiday ribbon and a gift tag!
• Gift it in a holiday cookie tin or goodie box.
• Holiday-themed cellophane bags also work well! Fill one with snack mix and tie a ribbon around the top.

More Christmas Recipes We Love

If you’re pulling out all the stops with your holiday baking, you might want to try some of these holiday recipes:

• 3 Ingredient Grinch Bark
• Christmas Meringue Trees
• Cornflake Wreaths
• Chocolate Spritz Cookies
• Peppermint Sugar Cookie Cups

Snack Mix Recipes

If you enjoyed this sweet snack mix, try one of the other versions here on the blog:

Cookie Butter Snack Mix: With a combination of granola, fruit snacks, and dried fruits tossed in cookie butter, this snack mix will fill your kids up while providing them with some healthy benefits!

Halloween Snack Mix is a sweet and salty party mix filled with your favorite fall ingredients!

This Funfetti Puppy Chow Recipe is a crunchy, colorful snack mix with a cake batter twist on Muddy Buddies. 

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Christmas Snack Mix

This sweet and savory Christmas Snack Mix is perfect for the holidays! Filled with pretzels and crunchy candy, then covered in melted white chocolate, it’s easy to make, and no baking is required!

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword Christmas Snack Mix

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Refrigeration 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 25 minutes minutes

Servings 12 cups

Calories 325kcal

Author Lynne Feifer

Ingredients

• 3 cups Rice Chex cereal
• 3 cups Corn Chex cereal
• 2 cups pretzel snaps
• 1 cup Cadbury Mini Snow Balls
• 1 cup Christmas plain M&M's
• 12 ounces white chocolate chips
• ½ cup crushed candy canes divided
• 1 tablespoon Christmas colored nonpareils divided

Instructions

• Line a large rimmed baking sheet with a piece of parchment.
• In a large bowl, mix together the rice and corn cereals, pretzels, mini snow balls, and M&M's.
• In a medium microwaveable bowl, melt the white chocolate chips for 1 minute. Stir and melt again in 10 second intervals until completely melted and smooth, stirring after each. Mix in half of the crushed peppermint candy.
• Pour over cereal mixture, and sprinkle half of the nonpareils over the bowl. Stir gently to coat. Spread mixture onto the prepared cookie sheet in single layer. Immediately sprinkle the remaining crushed peppermint candy and nonpareils over the entire pan. Refrigerate for 15 minutes or at room temperature for 30-45 minutes until set.
• Store in an airtight container.

Notes

Nutritional value is given for 1 cup of Christmas Snack Mix.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 325kcal | Carbohydrates: 47g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 9mg | Sodium: 235mg | Potassium: 125mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 30g | Vitamin A: 422IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 128mg | Iron: 5mg

The post Christmas Snack Mix appeared first on 365 Days of Baking.

Cranberries are a holiday staple! I use fake ones in my decorating and fresh cranberries in my cooking and baking. This super simple recipe will elevate your cranberries to the next level. The white sugar adds a gorgeous sparkle, adding a beautifully festive touch to your holiday treats and party charcuterie boards.

This recipe produces the best results when using fresh cranberries, though you could use thawed frozen cranberries as well. Just make sure they come to room temperature first to avoid any extra moisture.

3 Ingredients for Sugared Cranberries

This recipe creates a sweet syrup with just two simple ingredients:

• Granulated white sugar
• Water

Don’t forget to pick up a bag of fresh cranberries at the grocery store!

The detailed amounts and instructions are in the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

How to Make Sugared Cranberries

1. Prepare: Sort the cranberries and discard any bruised or bad ones, then rinse the cranberries under cold water. 
2. Simple Syrup: Next, combine 3/4 cup of white sugar and 3/4 cup of water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely, then remove the pan from the heat. 
3. Coat the Cranberries: Add the cranberries to the saucepan, ensuring you fully coat each one in the syrup. Let them sit for 5-10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cranberries to a wire rack. Spread them out so they aren’t touching. Let them dry for about 1 hour until they are no longer wet but still slightly sticky. 
4. Sugar the Berries: Place the remaining 3/4 cup of sugar in a shallow dish. Working in batches, roll cranberries in the sugar until evenly coated. Finally, allow the sugared cranberries to dry in a single layer on a clean baking sheet for another hour before serving or using as a garnish. 

Tips for Coating Cranberries in Sugar

• The best way to coat the cranberries in sugar is to work in small batches. Place the sticky cranberries into a shallow dish filled with sugar and gently roll them around using a spoon or by tossing the dish. This ensures even coverage without clumping. 
• Avoid using your hands, as the simple syrup mixture can transfer and make the sugar sticky or clump. 
• Spread the coated cranberries out on a baking sheet to dry completely before serving or storing. 
• Sticky sugar usually happens from excess syrup transferring from the cranberries, so make sure the cranberries are only slightly sticky before rolling them and work in small batches. If your sugar becomes too lumpy or sticky while coating the cranberries, you can sift it through a fine-mesh sieve to break up clumps and refresh it. This will ensure the sugar remains dry and easy to work with. If the problem persists, replace the sugar entirely with fresh, dry sugar. 

FAQs

How should I store the Sugared Cranberries? 

Store the sparkling cranberries in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. The cranberries are best stored in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight. Don’t place them in the refrigerator, as refrigerating them can make the sugar coating melt. 

Can I freeze Sugared Cranberries for Cocktails?

Do not freeze! Sugar-coated cranberries do not hold up well.

Can I use different types of sugar for the coating? 

Yes, superfine sugar works well for a finer coating; coarse sugar adds more texture and sparkle. 

Can I add flavor to the syrup? 

Yes, you can add vanilla, lemon or orange zest, or spices like cinnamon or cloves to the syrup for added flavor. 

Why didn’t my sugar stick?

The cranberries may have dried too long after the syrup coating. They should still feel sticky when rolling them in the sweet sugar coating.

Can I reuse the sugar syrup?

Absolutely! You can use it for sweetening drinks, cocktails, or even drizzling over desserts. Store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. 

Suggestions for Using Sugared Cranberry Topping

• This Orange Spice Cake has a cran-raspberry filling and vanilla bean frosting. Top it with sugared cranberries for an elegant presentation!
• Can you imagine sugared cranberries on top of these Cranberry Orange Dream Bars? This fun holiday dessert will look stunning with those candied cranberries on top.
• Top this easy Cranberry Coffee Cake or my buttery Homemade Pound Cake with sugared cranberries and whipped cream for an indulgent treat!
• This Winter Cosmopolitan is a festive cocktail made with Vodka, lime juice, and cranberry apple juice. Use the cranberry simple syrup from this recipe instead of the rosemary simple syrup called for in the recipe, and garnish with a toothpick of sugared cranberries! You could also drop them in a glass of wine for a little zing!
• Holiday Cheese Ball: Two types of cheese are mixed with tangy dried cranberries, fragrant chopped rosemary, and pecan pieces, then rolled in even more cranberries, pecans, and parsley for a colorful and festive starter. Sugared cranberries would be a perfect garnish for this on your cheese boards!
• Dress up a pumpkin dessert like a pumpkin pie or my No-Bake Pumpkin Nutella Cheesecake. I love the vibrant color on the otherwise dull brownish desserts.
• Dress up a Cinnamon Roll wreath or Yule Log with sugared cranberries!
• Add these little jewels to your breakfast, like waffles or Almond Berry French Toast Casserole.

How will you use your sugared cranberry garnish this holiday season?

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Sugared Cranberries

Sugared Cranberries add sweetness and sparkle to holiday desserts! Coated in a crisp layer of sugar, they’re a perfect balance of sweet and tart. Top desserts, garnish cocktails, or serve as a snack!

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword Sugared Cranberries

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 5 minutes minutes

Rest Time 2 hours hours

Total Time 2 hours hours 15 minutes minutes

Servings 3 cups

Calories 431kcal

Author Lynne Feifer

Ingredients

• 3 cups fresh cranberries (12-ounce bag)
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar, divided
• ¾ cup water

Instructions

• Sort the cranberries and discard any bruised or bad ones. Rinse the cranberries under cold water. 
• Combine 3/4 cup of sugar and 3/4 cup of water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely, then remove from heat. 
• Add the cranberries to the saucepan, ensuring they are fully coated in the syrup. Let them sit for 5-10 minutes. 
• Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cranberries to a wire rack. Spread them out so they aren’t touching. Let them dry for about 1 hour until they are no longer wet but still slightly sticky. 
• Place the remaining 3/4 cup of sugar in a shallow dish. Working in batches, roll the cranberries in the sugar until evenly coated. 
• Allow the sugared cranberries to dry on a clean baking sheet for another hour before serving or using as a garnish. 

Notes

Please read the post for helpful tips and tricks to make the best Sugared Cranberries!

Nutrition

Serving: 1cup | Calories: 431kcal | Carbohydrates: 112g | Protein: 0.5g | Fat: 0.5g | Saturated Fat: 0.01g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 6mg | Potassium: 82mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 104g | Vitamin A: 60IU | Vitamin C: 14mg | Calcium: 11mg | Iron: 0.3mg

The post 3 Ingredient Sugared Cranberries appeared first on 365 Days of Baking.

When you’re busy running around during the holiday season shopping for gifts, wrapping presents, and prepping for holiday parties, you’ll be so glad you have a bowl of this Reindeer Chex Mix to munch on. This sweet and salty snack mix sure satisfies my sweet tooth. In fact, I have to keep it in pre-portioned containers or I’ll eat way too much in one sitting!

What IS Reindeer Chow?

Have you ever had Puppy Chow? I mean, of course, the sweet treat, not real dog food! Puppy chow is a nickname for that delicious snack made with Chex cereal, chocolate, peanut butter, and powdered sugar. Some people also call this concoction Muddy Buddies.

Well, Reindeer Chow takes that classic treat and adds a holiday twist. Mini pretzels add extra crunch, brownie mix provides a rich fudgy flavor, and of course, some holiday M&M candies bring that festive flair!

Ingredients for Reindeer Snack Mix

You’ll need the following ingredients to make this sweet treat:

• Rice Chex cereal– I prefer this as a base as it has a neutral flavor and stays crispy while still absorbing all the yummy chocolate and peanut butter. Feel free to use other Chex cereals, too, or a combination of them.
• Semisweet chocolate chips– I recommend semi-sweet chips to balance out the sweetness of this dish, but you could also use milk or dark chocolate according to your preference.
• Creamy peanut butter– helps bind everything together. You could use other nut butters as well for allergy purposes.
• Unsalted butter– adds richness and helps melt the chocolate and peanut butter smoothly.
• Pure vanilla extract– for flavor.
• Brownie mix– this adds a fudgy, chocolatey texture and flavor and adds an extra sweetness to the coating.
• Powdered sugar– for that signature snowy look and to keep everything from clumping together.
• Mini pretzels– for a salty, crunchy contrast to all the sweet elements.
• Christmas M&Ms (Red and Green)– add a pop of color and festive charm to the dish!

Find the exact amounts you’ll need in the recipe card below!

What equipment do I need to make Reindeer Chow?

Everything you need to make this Christmas Chex mix is a kitchen staple. Gather together these things:

• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large baking sheet
• Parchment paper or wax paper
• Mixing bowls
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Rubber spatula
• Serving bowl
• Jars for small cellophane bags for gifting

How to make Christmas Reindeer Chow

1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Place 6 cups of Rice Chex cereal in a large bowl and set it aside. 
2. In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, ½ cup creamy peanut butter, and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. Stir in 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract. 
3. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Gently stir together with a spatula until the cereal is evenly coated. Spread the chocolate-covered cereal mixture on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool and let the chocolate dry completely. 
4. Combine 1 cup brownie mix and ½ cup powdered sugar in a small bowl. Sprinkle the mix over the coated cereal. Gently toss until the cereal is evenly coated with the brownie mix.
5. Add 1 ½ cups mini pretzels and 1 ½ cups Christmas M&M’s. Carefully mix to distribute everything evenly. 
6. Transfer the Reindeer Chow to a festive serving bowl or package it into gift bags or containers for gifting. 

Recipe Notes

• Be gentle when combining the cereal with the chocolate and peanut butter mixture to avoid breaking the cereal. This will help maintain that lovely crunchy texture you’re looking for.
• Make sure each piece of cereal is evenly coated with the chocolate mixture.
• Allow the mix to cool completely before adding the powdered sugar. This helps the sugar stick better and keeps the cereal from getting soggy. 

How to Give Reindeer Chex Mix as a Gift

I love that you can pop these in a mason jar, spruce it up with some decorations, and give it as a gift! Add a cute gift tag and some baker’s twine, then trace and cut out antlers from brown construction paper.

Note: as pictured, my Reindeer Chow gifts are perfect for a Christmas party or when you know they’ll be eaten immediately. Otherwise, I would make sure to replace the lid and attach the paper antlers to the jar with some glue before gifting this mix in a jar.

For an alternate quick and easy presentation, place a few scoops of Reindeer Chow into festive cellophane bags, tie each bag with a ribbon, and add a cute gift tag!

I prefer giving edible gifts to neighbors, teachers, and friends because A- they know you made it with love, and B- edible gifts don’t add clutter or take up space! Reindeer Chow is the perfect choice for an edible gift, and you can make several jars from one batch!

How to Store Reindeer Chow

Store your snack mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Try not to eat it all at once!

Holiday Snack Mix Recipes

I love to make holiday-themed snack mix all year round! Here are some other fun recipes to try:

• Halloween Snack Mix
• Valentine Snack Mix
• Christmas Snack Mix
• Easter Chex Mix

These ones can be themed for any holiday depending on how you package it, or just eat them any time of year!

• Cookie Butter Snack Mix
• Circus Animal Puppy Chow
• Funfetti Puppy Chow

Which easy recipe is your favorite?

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Reindeer Chow

Make Reindeer Chow for a sweet snack or gift! Mix Chex cereal and pretzels in a peanut butter chocolate coating, then add holiday M&Ms. Finally, toss it all in a powdered sugar/brownie mix, and enjoy!

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword Reindeer Chow

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 15 minutes minutes

Servings 18 1/2 cup servings

Calories 330kcal

Author Lynne Feifer

Ingredients

• 6 cups Rice Chex cereal
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup brownie mix
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 ½ cups mini pretzels
• 1 ½ cups Christmas M&Ms (red and green)

Instructions

• Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Place 6 cups of Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
• In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, ½ cup creamy peanut butter, and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. Stir in 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract. 
• Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Gently stir with a spatula until the cereal is evenly coated. Spread the chocolate-covered cereal on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool, and let the chocolate dry completely. 
• Combine 1 cup brownie mix and ½ cup powdered sugar. Sprinkle the mix over the coated cereal. Gently toss until the cereal is evenly coated with the brownie mix.  
• Add 1 ½ cups mini pretzels and 1 ½ cups Christmas M&M's. Gently mix to distribute evenly. 
• Transfer the Reindeer Chow to a festive serving bowl or package it into gift bags or containers for gifting. 

Notes

• Be gentle when combining the cereal with the chocolate and peanut butter mixture to avoid breaking the cereal. This will help maintain the desired crunchy texture. 
• Make sure each piece of cereal is evenly coated with the chocolate mixture.  
• Allow the mix to cool completely before adding the powdered sugar. This helps the sugar stick better and keeps the cereal from getting soggy. 
• Store the Reindeer Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. 

Nutrition

Serving: 0.5cup | Calories: 330kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 7mg | Sodium: 238mg | Potassium: 130mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 26g | Vitamin A: 249IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 65mg | Iron: 5mg

The post Reindeer Chow appeared first on 365 Days of Baking.

No Bake Treats

From easy 3 ingredient barks to no-bake snack mixes, these treats make great DIY gifts for loved ones.

Christmas Cookies

Thumbprint cookies, multiple variations of spritz cookies, and beloved classics make this short list wonderful cookies to serve throughout the holiday season. Here’s a list of over 65!

Christmas Desserts

Looking for something different to serve after Christmas dinner? We have desserts that anyone will come back to again and again!

Cakes, Breakfasts, Breads, and More

Don’t worry about breakfast or brunch on Christmas morning! We’ve got you covered with pastries, coffee cakes, breads, and more!

The post 63+ Christmas Treats appeared first on 365 Days of Baking.

Practically everyone LOVES hot chocolate when the weather turns cold!
There’s just something so cozy about a nice cup of hot chocolate topped with fluffy marshmallows this time of year.
Not me!! LOL But that’s a backstory you definitely don’t want to hear.

Because of that, I love putting hot chocolate into other recipes I can enjoy like this Hot Chocolate Fudge, Hot Chocolate Brownies, and more down below!

Why You’ll Love Hot Chocolate Cool Whip Dip

• This no-bake dessert dip is so easy to make, and everyone loves it! I much prefer easy desserts for potlucks and such. That’s why I always make this when I’m asked to bring something to holiday parties.
• This sweet treat is fun for kids! Sprinkle mini marshmallows and colored sprinkles on top for a cute and festive presentation.
• You can easily make this yummy dip ahead of time. Get ahead of the holiday rush and make this hot cocoa dip 4-5 days in advance. Just don’t add any toppings until you’re ready to serve it.

Hot Chocolate Dip Ingredients

You only need a handful of simple ingredients to make this Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Dip:

• Cream cheese, room temperature
• Powdered sugar
• Cocoa powder
• Cool Whip –
  Don’t like Cool Whip? Use my Stabilized Whipped Cream recipe since it will make the exact amount you’ll need!
• Mini Marshmallows
• (optional) Red and Green Sprinkles

Please review the recipe card at the bottom of the post for the detailed ingredient amounts.

How to make Hot Cocoa Dip with Cream Cheese

This recipe works best with softened cream cheese, so make sure to set yours out ahead of time.

1. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder together in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
2. Fold in the Cool Whip or Stabilized Whipped Cream with a silicone spatula.
3. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and place mini marshmallows and holiday sprinkles on top of the dip before serving. Enjoy!

It really doesn’t get much easier than that!

Recipe Variations

• Use 1-2 hot chocolate packets instead of cocoa powder for a milder, sweeter flavor, and decrease the amount of powdered sugar to 1/4 cup.
• Not a Cool Whip fan? Try my homemade Stabilized Whipped Cream recipe instead.
• Add crushed candy canes and a half teaspoon of pure peppermint extract for a peppermint hot cocoa dip.
• Add white chocolate chips to make the sweet dip even richer!
• One of my favorite things to do is drizzle salted caramel sauce across the top for a salted caramel hot cocoa dip.

FAQS

What should I serve with Hot Chocolate Dip?

There are so many great dipper options for this hot cocoa dip recipe. These are some of my favorite dippers:

• Graham crackers
• Vanilla Wafers
• Golden Oreos
• Butter or shortbread cookies
• Chocolate chip cookies
• Pretzels
• Banana slices
• Fresh fruit like strawberries or apples
• Animal Crackers
• Cubes of Pound Cake
• And more!

How do I store leftover Cocoa Cream Cheese Dip?

Store the leftover dip in the fridge covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container for 4-5 days. The dip does firm up in the fridge, so if you want to serve it again later, let it thaw a bit by letting it sit at room temperature and re-stir before serving.

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes. This delicious hot chocolate dip stores well in the fridge for up to 4-5 days, so feel free to make it 4-5 days in advance. Just be sure not to add the toppings until serving it, as marshmallows can get a weird texture after sitting in the dip in the fridge for a few days. 

More Hot Chocolate Recipes You’ll Love

I love to bring the chocolatey goodness of hot cocoa into my baking recipes. Try one of these next time:

• Hot Chocolate Brownies are made with marshmallow crème and topped with Andes Mints. You’ll love eating your hot cocoa!
• This No Bake Cherry Hot Chocolate Cheesecake has a chocolate cookie crust, chocolate cheesecake, Lucky Leaf Premium Cherry Fruit Filling or Topping, a fluffy marshmallow topping, Cool Whip and chocolate shavings in every bite.

Try these Hot Chocolate recipe drink variations too!

• Peppermint Mocha Hot Chocolate Bombs are the perfect DIY holiday gift with simple ingredients.
• This Peppermint White Chocolate Mocha is the drink of the holidays. Warm up your insides on a chilly morning or night with your favorite coffee drink made with peppermint and white hot chocolate.
• This Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate is super easy to make with maraschino cherry juice and Swiss Miss® Milk Chocolate Flavor Hot Cocoa Mix. It will be your new favorite way to drink hot chocolate! 

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Hot Chocolate Dip

Love hot cocoa? Then you’ll love this creamy Hot Chocolate Dip with cream cheese, Cool Whip, and your favorite cocoa powder. This chocolatey dip will be a hit at your next party this holiday season!

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword Hot Chocolate Dip

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 8 servings

Calories 127kcal

Author Lynne Feifer

Ingredients

• 4 ounces cream cheese softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ¼ cup cocoa powder
• 8 ounces Cool Whip or Stabilized Whipped Cream thawed, *See Note
• Mini marshmallows for topping
• Red and green sprinkles optional, for topping

Instructions

• Using your hand held mixer, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder until smooth.
• Fold in all of the Cool Whip. 
• Transfer to your serving bowl and top with mini marshmallows and festive sprinkles before you enjoy! 

Notes

 

• My Stabilized Whipped Cream can be substituted for the Cool Whip.
• Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. 

Dippers 

• Graham Crackers  
• Pretzels 
• Vanilla Wafers 
• Animal Crackers
• Oreos 
• Fresh fruit

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 127kcal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 19mg | Sodium: 66mg | Potassium: 90mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 240IU | Calcium: 48mg | Iron: 0.4mg

The post Hot Chocolate Dip appeared first on 365 Days of Baking.

No matter what time of year it is, I love walking outside and enjoying the fresh air. And that often means I need a boost of energy to keep me going. That’s where these No Bake Energy Bites come in.

I’ve made them before, and they were such a huge hit with the family that they’ve asked for them again and again! They make an easy snack for your walks or just to get you through a long day.
They’re also make for a great and easy treat when you’ve got the craving for something sweet! We often eat these in place of cookies.

Why are energy bites good for you?

Energy bites are filled with healthy ingredients that fuel your body. These have a nutritious combination of protein, carbohydrates, fiber, and healthy fats to keep you satisfied in between meals or after a workout. They also have just the right amount of sweetness to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Ingredients for No-Bake Energy Bites

You only need a handful of simple ingredients to make these no-bake energy balls. Here’s what you need:

• Old-fashioned Oats
• Toasted Coconut
• Almond Butter, creamy or crunchy peanut butter can be substituted
• Flaxseed Meal (or ground flaxseed)
• Slivered Almonds, chopped
• Dried Cranberries, chopped
• Honey
• Pure Vanilla Extract

Of course, you can customize these peanut butter energy bites to your tastes as desired. 

Check out the recipe card below for the exact amounts you’ll need.

How to make Easy Energy Bites

This quick snack is so easy to make! All you need to do is combine all the ingredients in a big bowl and stir them together with a rubber spatula.

Next, place the bowl in the fridge to set up for about 15 minutes. This step is optional if you’re pressed for time, but it’s easier to handle the dough when it’s chilled a little than at room temperature. I find wetting your hands also helps to roll the balls more easily.

Now roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Place the oatmeal energy balls into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. I think they are best when eaten cold.

Customize this Recipe

• Omit the coconut.
• Add chia seeds or protein powder for more protein.
• Add dark chocolate chips for added sweetness that still provides some nutrients.
• Use agave syrup or maple syrup instead of honey.
• Use raisins or dried blueberries or strawberries instead of cranberries.
• You can use pecans or walnuts instead of almonds.

FAQs

How long do energy bites stay fresh?

These no-bake protein bites will last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Can you freeze No-Bake Energy Bites?

Yes, these little balls are perfect for freezing! After rolling them, freeze them on a baking tray until firm, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Thaw these on the counter or in the fridge overnight before eating them.

Can I use a different nut butter instead?

If you don’t like almond butter, you can substitute any other nut butter in its place. Consider peanut butter or sun butter.

Are these gluten-free?

Make sure your oats are gluten-free and you’re good to go! All the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, with gluten in peanut butter being the exception rather than the rule.

More Grab-and-Go Snacks

These easy and delicious snacks are perfect for when you’re on the go and need something portable:

• No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites: these taste just like a cookie but the healthier ingredients keep you satisfied longer!
• Banana Chips: these are the perfect snacks for kids at the park. Sprinkle some cinnamon on top for a delightful twist!
• Baked Spiced Almonds: tossed with curry and garlic powder, paprika, salt, and a touch of cayenne, these nuts are a perfect snack for game day, mid-afternoon, or on a hike! 
• Homemade Cheese Crackers: Made from scratch with real cheddar, these homemade cheese crackers are a fantastic kid-friendly snack. No preservatives or sugar in these salty snacks!
• Peanut Butter Popcorn Balls: made with PB2 Organic Powdered Peanut Butter, popcorn, and marshmallows, these popcorn balls are a fun treat for both kids and adults!
• Cranberry Almond Granola Bars: These granola bars are great for breakfast, in lunch boxes, or even as an after-school snack!

More Bite-Sized Treats

Everything is fun to eat when it’s bite-sized! Try one of these next time:

Savory Bites

• Easy Parmesan Bread Bites
• Chicken Enchilada Bites
• Avocado Tuna Salad Bites
• Sausage Cranberry Brie Bites
• Homemade Pretzel Bites
• Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Bites

Sweet Bites

• ​Salted Cashew Caramel Brownie Bites
• Milky Way Simply Caramel Bites
• Twix Bites Brownies
• Caramel Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites

Which “bite” is next on your menu?

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No Bake Energy Bites

These No-Bake Energy Bites made with oats, almonds, flax seed, honey, dried cranberries, almonds, and almond butter, are a great pick me up. They're perfect as an after-school or post workout snack.

Course Snack

Cuisine American

Keyword No Bake Energy Bites

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 15 minutes minutes

Servings 20 servings

Calories 119kcal

Author Lynne Feifer

Ingredients

• 1 cup old fashioned oats
• ⅔ cup toasted coconut
• ½ cup almond butter peanut butter can be substituted
• ½ cup flax seed meal
• ⅓ cup slivered almonds chopped
• ⅓ cup dried cranberries I used the Reduced Sugar Craisins, chopped
• ⅓ cup honey
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

• Place the oats, coconut, almond butter, flax seed meal, slivered almonds, dried cranberries, honey, and vanilla extract into a large bowl.
• With a rubber spatula, make sure everything is mixed together really well.
• Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls with your hands if you don't mind a bit of a sticky mess OR you can place the bowl into the fridge for about 15 minutes to set before you roll.
• Once rolled, you will have about 20 energy bites depending on how large or small you made them.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. I think they are best when eaten cold.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 119kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.001g | Sodium: 3mg | Potassium: 121mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 0.1IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 40mg | Iron: 1mg

This post was originally published March 24, 2015. It has been updated in format and with pictures on September 11, 2024.

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Omron. The opinions and text are all mine.

The post No-Bake Energy Bites appeared first on 365 Days of Baking.

Dates are one of my favorite secretly-healthy snacks. They are sweet with a caramel-like flavor, so you almost feel like you’re eating candy. But really, they are full of healthy benefits!

Why Dates Are Good For You

Dates have important vitamins and minerals, are high in antioxidants, and are high in fiber. Dates may help with the following:

• Improved digestion- dates are high in fiber, so they help promote good digestion and help you avoid constipation.
• Fighting disease- dates contain natural antioxidants that have been proven to help fight off diseases like diabetes, some types of cancers, and heart disease.
• Promoting brain health- dates have nutrients that help fight inflammation and may prevent plaque buildup in the brain.

(I am NOT a doctor, so while I enjoy pointing out the benefits of certain foods, please consult with your doctor about any health concerns related to food.)

These sweet dates are worth adding to your diet, as they are nutritious AND delicious. Pair them with peanut butter, pecans, and some flaky sea salt and they are even better! It honestly seems like I am eating a Snickers bar or something, but this recipe has no added sugar!

Ingredients for Dates With Peanut Butter

These peanut butter date snacks take just minutes to make. You’ll need the following simple ingredients:

• Fresh Medjool dates (I use fresh ones with pits, as they are softer and fresher)
• Creamy peanut butter (crunchy peanut butter works well too, but I prefer the texture of creamy PB with these dates)
• Pecan halves
• Coarse sea salt

Review the recipe card below for all the exact amounts for each ingredient.

Recipe Substitutions

• You can use natural peanut butter, almond butter, cashew butter, or a different nut butter in place of regular peanut butter. The snacks are just as delicious!
• Use tahini for a nut-free version.
• You can use other dates besides Medjool dates. I prefer them because they are larger and sweeter, but any variety will work!
• Grate dark chocolate bar on top, or add mini chocolate chips or drizzled melted chocolate if you’d like!

How to Make Dates and Peanut Butter

Make this satisfying snack in just a few easy steps!

1. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a slit into the center of the date and remove the pit from each one. Make sure not to cut all the way through the dates.
2. Place a heaping teaspoon of peanut butter into the slit of the date.
3. Top each date with a pecan half and sprinkle with a little bit of coarse sea salt. Enjoy!

How to Store Peanut Butter Stuffed Dates

Store these in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. They should last 4-5 days.

 Can you freeze Dates and Peanut Butter?

Yes, you can pop them in the freezer to enjoy on a hot summer day! Freeze them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper until firm, then transfer them to a Ziploc bag for storage. Just let them thaw for a few minutes on the counter before eating them.

More Snacks To Try

If you enjoyed my Dates and Peanut Butter recipe, then try one of these quick and easy snack recipes next time to keep you and your family fueled up:

• These No-Bake Rice Krispies Granola Bars are a perfect bite for breakfast on the go or an afternoon snack. Soft, crunchy, and slightly sweet, they’re made with Rice Krispies cereal, honey, semi-sweet chocolate chips, oats, peanut butter, and coconut.
• Bacon Ranch Crackers are an easy snack packed with zesty cheesy flavor! Cheese Ritz Bits are oven-baked with ranch seasoning and bacon bits for a fun movie snack or game day appetizer!
• Learn how to make Cheese Crackers at home with this easy recipe. Made from scratch with real cheddar, these homemade cheese crackers are a fantastic kid-friendly snack.
• Cinnamon Sugar Popcorn is the perfect snack for movie nights, or to serve as an after-school or anytime snack.
• Peanut Butter Popcorn Balls made with PB2 Organic Powdered Peanut Butter, popcorn, and marshmallows are a fun treat for both kids and adults! They’re easy to make, fun to eat, and can be ready in under an hour.

All things Peanut Butter

I am obsessed with peanut butter! It’s creamy, salty, and pairs with so many things perfectly (especially chocolate!) You’ll find tons of recipes that use peanut butter here on the blog. These are some of my favorite PB treats:

• No Bake Peanut Butter Pie
• Peanut Butter Cookies
• Peanut Butter Bread
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Fruit Dip
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars – our MOST popular dessert recipe! AND it’s no bake, too.

If you try this peanut butter dates recipe or have any questions, please let me know! Leave a comment and rate it below. I love to hear what you think about this and all my recipes!

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Dates and Peanut Butter

Looking for a tasty, filling snack that's easy to make? Try some chewy dried Dates and Peanut Butter for a treat full of fiber and flavor! They're great for an after-school snack or anytime pick-me-up.

Course Snacks

Cuisine American

Keyword Dates and Peanut Butter

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 10 minutes minutes

Servings 5 servings

Calories 248kcal

Author Lynne Feifer

Ingredients

• 10 Medjool Dates with pits*
• 10 teaspoons peanut butter creamy or crunchy*
• 10 pecan halves
• coarse sea salt

Instructions

• Carefully pit each of the dates.
• Place a heaping teaspoon of peanut butter into the slit of the date.
• Top each date with a pecan half and sprinkle with a little bit of coarse sea salt.

Notes

• *You can use dates without pits, but dates with them will be softer and fresher. 
• *Almond butter or any nut butter can be substituted for the peanut butter, and is just as delicious.
• You can also add some grated dark chocolate or mini chocolate chips, if you’d like!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 248kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 69mg | Potassium: 436mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 34g | Vitamin A: 73IU | Vitamin C: 0.03mg | Calcium: 41mg | Iron: 1mg

The post Dates and Peanut Butter appeared first on 365 Days of Baking.

It seems I can never find enough delicious side dishes.

I mean, I know they’re out there. 
I’ve seen them.
On Pinterest, Facebook.
I just have trouble getting my act together to make them because it seems like I’m always so focused on the main dish that I forget or can’t time it right. 
Am I alone here?

Well, this easy side dish is most definitely a keeper. I LOVE French fries, and of course, who doesn’t?
But these Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Sticks are healthy fries, and believe me when I say they are SOOOOO addictive!
Besides, this recipe is a great way to use that fresh zucchini your garden, your CSA share(Community Supported Agriculture) or just from your favorite grocery store.
So, be sure to keep this recipe handy because you’ll definitely want to make it over and over. 

What ingredients do I need to make baked zucchini fries?

• Zucchini – two large zucchini
• Eggs
• Bread Crumbs – both regular breadcrumbs and plain Panko breadcrumbs. You can substitute cornmeal for the Panko bread crumbs if you’d like. 
• Parmesan Cheese
• Italian Seasoning
• Garlic Powder
• Salt
• Pepper
• Olive Oil Spray or Cooking Spray

What is the cooking process for crispy zucchini fries?

• Preheat oven to 400° F. and prepare a baking sheet by spraying it with cooking spray.
• Place the two eggs into a shallow bowl and whisk.
• In a medium bowl, mix together both bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
• Cut the zucchini into sticks, about 1 ½ – 2 inches in length. Zucchini has a high moisture content, so it’s important that you pat the individual sticks dry with a paper towel or two. This will also help the egg adhere to it allowing for a better coating of breadcrumbs. 
• Place about 4 of the zucchini strips into the egg mixture and stir to coat. 
• Then put the sticks into the panko-parmesan mixture and make sure they are completely covered.
• Arrange on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown. 
  To get them a bit more crunchy, I’ll remove mine from the oven at 10 minutes, flip them individually and then put them back into the oven for another 10-15 minutes. 
• Serve plain, with some marinara sauce, Ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce.

See the recipe card below for ingredient amounts and complete instructions.

Crispiest Zucchini Fries in the air fryer

Using the same amounts of ingredients, follow the instructions in the recipe card until you’re directed to place them on the baking sheet. 
Instead, spray the inside of your air fryer basket with some cooking spray and place the breaded zucchini into it, leaving a little space among them for the air to circulate. You may have to do this in batches depending on how much there are and how many can fit. 
Spray the sliced zucchini with some olive oil or cooking spray before setting your air fryer to 400°. 
Bake for 10 minutes, until golden and crispy.

How do I store them?

Place cooled and baked zucchini sticks into an airtight container and place into the refrigerator. They will last for about 3 days. 
To reheat, bake in a 375° oven for about 8-10 minutes until heated through.
Want to use a microwave to save time? Don’t. The sticks will become mushy and won’t crisp up as nicely when reheated in the oven.

Can I freeze crunchy zucchini fries?

You sure can!
After they’re baked, place them in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet and place them into the freezer. 
Once frozen, place them into a resealable freezer bag with as much of the air removed as possible. 
They’ll keep for about 3 months. 
When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a 375°F preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes until heated through. 

More Zucchini Recipes

• Zucchini Casserole
• Lemon Zucchini Muffins
• Zucchini Pancakes
• Mushroom & Onion Stuffed Zucchini
• Zucchini Chips
• Day 125 – Zucchini Bread

​More delicious recipes for sides

These Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes are one of my absolute favorites as is this Roasted Parmesan Broccoli.
I’ll just eat this stuff right off the pan when I take it out of the oven I love them that much!
Ok, I do it with the zucchini sticks as well. 

I’ve fallen in love with cauliflower when I’ve roasted it, too! 
This colorful Roasted Curry Cajun Cauliflower will add some pizzaz to your dinner. 
You’ll also want to try the Roasted Teriyaki Cauliflower.
If you prefer to eat your cauliflower with cheese, then this Cauliflower Gratin has your name all over it.

Of course, bread always makes a delicious side as well. 
Zucchini sticks and a loaf of this Italian Bread will be great accompaniments to any Italian meal, especially these Stuffed Shells or my Mom’s Lasagna.

Finally, if you choose to dip these zucchini fries in some ranch dressing, then make this Chili Ranch Dipping Sauce and you can even make some fried green tomatoes to go with them!

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Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Sticks

Parmesan Zucchini Fries made with two different kinds of bread crumbs, Italian herbs and Parmesan cheese is an easy recipe for a perfect side dish or appetizer. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce!

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Keyword Zucchini Sticks

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 40 minutes minutes

Servings 4 people

Calories 117kcal

Author Lynne Feifer

Ingredients

• 2 large zucchini
• 2 eggs
• ¼ cup plain bread crumbs
• ¼ cup Panko bread crumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• olive oil spray

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 425°F, and prepare a rimmed baking sheet by spraying it generously with cooking spray.
• In medium bowl, beat the eggs.
• In a shallow baking dish, combine both breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Wash each zucchini, cut off the ends, and then slice in half. Cut into sticks about 2" long and ¼-½" wide. Not necessary, but helpful: use paper towels to dry the individual sticks. Since zucchini has a high water content, this will help the egg mixture adhere and ensure a better covering of breadcrumbs.
• Place about 4 of the zucchini sticks into the eggs, and completely cover all sides.
• Put zucchini into the bread crumb mixture and toss to completely coat.
• Place onto prepared baking sheet.
• Spray zucchini sticks with cooking spray and place into oven.
• Bake for approximately 20 minutes or until golden.
• Serve plain, with marinara sauce, ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

*See the post for cooking the fries in an air fryer, freezing, storing and reheating!

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 117kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 86mg | Sodium: 362mg | Potassium: 299mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 364IU | Vitamin C: 18mg | Calcium: 129mg | Iron: 1mg

This post was Day 157 of my original 365 Days of Baking it has been updated in format and with pictures on August 12, 2024.

The post Baked Parmesan Zucchini Fries appeared first on 365 Days of Baking.