If you’re on the hunt for an irresistibly fun snack that fuses nostalgic flavors with a cool minty twist, look no further than Andes Mint Puppy Chow. This easy-to-make treat takes everything you love about puppy chow—crisp cereal, chocolatey coating, snowy powdered sugar—and dials it up with rich, creamy Andes mints. Perfect for sharing (or stashing away for yourself), it’s a party pleaser that’s always the first to disappear from the snack table!

Andes Mint Puppy Chow Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Andes Mint Puppy Chow requires just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients, each working its magic in terms of flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Here’s what you’ll need—and why every component matters!

Andes mints (1 cup, divided): Iconic layer-candy brings a velvety, unmistakable mint flavor and a touch of green color that makes this treat unforgettable.
Chocolate chips (½ cup): These melt down to create the fudgy, chocolate coating that binds everything together.
Corn Chex (4 cups): The foundation of the snack—light, crisp, and perfect for holding every bit of that minty chocolate goodness.
Powdered sugar (1 cup): The finishing touch that gives each piece its sweet, snowy “puppy chow” look (and keeps fingers happily dusted).

How to Make Andes Mint Puppy Chow

Step 1: Melt the Mint Chocolate

Begin by combining the chocolate chips and half of the Andes mints into a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is silky smooth and completely melted. The two chocolates blend beautifully, giving you a decadent, mint-infused coating that’s ready to be poured.

Step 2: Coat the Cereal

Pour the 4 cups of corn Chex into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the warm, minty chocolate over the cereal and stir gently but thoroughly, making sure every piece gets coated. It’s that luscious covering that makes Andes Mint Puppy Chow totally addictive.

Step 3: Prepare the Sugar Bag

Pour the powdered sugar into a gallon-sized zip-top bag. This brilliant hack lets you coat every piece without making a mess, and it’s way more fun than any mixing bowl method!

Step 4: Combine and Shake

Transfer the chocolate-coated Chex into the bag with the powdered sugar. Seal the bag tightly, then shake it vigorously—get the kids involved for this part! Every square should be dusted with a snowy layer, transforming plain cereal into classic Andes Mint Puppy Chow.

Step 5: Cool and Decorate

Spread the coated cereal on a baking sheet in a single layer so it can cool and set without sticking. Once cooled, sprinkle on the remaining chopped Andes mints for an extra pop of mint flavor and those iconic creamy-green stripes.

How to Serve Andes Mint Puppy Chow

Garnishes

For an extra-special touch, consider topping your Andes Mint Puppy Chow with a handful of whole or chopped Andes mints. You can also scatter mini chocolate chips or a dusting of extra powdered sugar over the top. Not only does this look gorgeous, but it adds a burst of minty freshness in every bite.

Side Dishes

Pair this treat with a tall glass of cold milk, or set it out alongside other party snacks like pretzel rods, popcorn, and fruit. Andes Mint Puppy Chow also makes an amazing companion to a steaming mug of hot cocoa or a fun dessert platter at a holiday gathering.

Creative Ways to Present

Go beyond the bowl! Package individual servings in cute treat bags tied with green ribbons for party favors. Layer Andes Mint Puppy Chow in mason jars for edible gifts, or serve in colorful cupcake liners for a grab-and-go delight at potlucks and classroom parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Andes Mint Puppy Chow is completely cool, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh and crispy for up to a week—just be prepared for it to disappear much faster than that!

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Andes Mint Puppy Chow! Place it in a sealed freezer bag or container. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for 30-60 minutes. This makes it easy to prep ahead for parties or holiday gifting.

Reheating

There’s no real need to reheat Andes Mint Puppy Chow, since it’s meant to be enjoyed at room temperature. If you’ve frozen it, simply allow it to come back to room temp before serving so every bite is perfectly crisp and chocolatey.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of mint chocolate?

Yes! While Andes mints create that classic flavor, feel free to use mint chocolate chips or crushed mint bark if needed. Just aim for smooth-melting varieties to ensure the perfect coating.

Is there a substitute for corn Chex?

You can use rice Chex or even Crispix if corn Chex aren’t available. The important thing is a sturdy, holey cereal that catches all that delicious minty chocolate.

Can I make Andes Mint Puppy Chow dairy free?

Absolutely! Swap out the chocolate chips and Andes mints for dairy-free versions, and use a plant-based powdered sugar if you want a completely dairy-free treat.

Is this recipe gluten free?

Most corn Chex are gluten-free, and you can double-check your other ingredients to be sure. That way, Andes Mint Puppy Chow is safe to enjoy for anyone avoiding gluten.

Will the puppy chow get soggy if left out?

Nope—if you store it in an airtight container and keep it away from humidity, your Andes Mint Puppy Chow stays irresistibly crisp for days. Avoid leaving it uncovered for long stretches so it maintains its texture.

Final Thoughts

Andes Mint Puppy Chow is more than a snack—it’s the sort of playful, minty chocolate treat that brightens up any occasion and makes people smile. Whether you whip it up for a quick movie night or as a homemade gift, you’re about to fall in love with just how easy and delicious it is. I hope you give it a try and share the minty joy!