A few recipes are so sweet, salty and delicious that they can only be made for major Holidays like Easter and Christmas and shared with friends and family.

Easter Puppy Chow definitely fits into that category.

This recipe started as a  “Puppy Chow” or Muddy Buddy recipe that includes chex mix, chocolate chips and peanut butter. A simple switch of white chocolate chips and the addition of pretzels (because I love them) and pastel candies make this recipe very Easter-ly.  We’ve added nuts because I love them too.

Ingredients

• 8.5 cups of Chex Corn or Vanilla Chex if you have it
• 12 ounce bag white chocolate chips
• 1/2 smooth cup peanut butter
• 1/3 cup butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup roasted salted nuts
• 2 1/2 cups small pretzels or pretzel sticks
• 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar
• 3 cups any combination of Pastel M&M’s, Cadbury eggs, small pastel malt balls (This is basically two small bags.)

Preparation

Mix the chocolate chips, peanut butter, butter and vanilla in a pan and melt over low heat. (You could microwave if your stove is unpredictable but I always get “hot spots”. Microwave for a minute, stir, then microwave in 20-30 second bursts until everything is melted and really warm.)

Combine cereal, nuts, and pretzels in a really, really large bowl.

Pour over the melted chocolate and peanut butter and mix until the candy is pretty well coated. You’ll think you have way too much dry stuff and not enough chocolate mix but keep the faith and keep gently tossing. Using hands may be required.

In 1/2 cup increments, sprinkle the powdered sugar over the pieces gently tossing between additions. Add candies, toss and try not to eat it all in one seating.

Gift Tip:  Spoon some of the Easter Chow into a pastel Kerr jar and deliver to your friends.