Looking for the perfect holiday treat that's fun, festive, and easy to make? You've found it! This reindeer food recipe isn't just adorable - it's dangerously delicious. Whether you're whipping up a holiday snack for your kids' Christmas party, creating a magical DIY holiday gift bag, or simply indulging in some holiday cheer, this crunchy, chocolatey mix is sure to be a hit. Plus, it's quick, simple, and kid-approved.
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Magic reindeer food has become a cult favorite during the festive season-and for a good reason! It's not only bursting with flavor, but it's also a great hands-on activity for kids (and adults-no judgment).
This cheerful mix of sweet and salty goodies is often prepared as a holiday snack or gift, along with a slice of Christmas bundt cake and a couple of chocolate candy cane cookies.
Some people even sprinkle "reindeer food" outdoors as part of Santa's visit, claiming it helps guide Rudolph and his fellow reindeer to their home.
This recipe was inspired by one of my favorite snack creation projects, and I can guarantee it pairs perfectly with a hearty cup of hot cocoa.
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Why you'll love this recipe
- Sweet & Salty Perfection: The perfect balance of sugary sweetness and salty crunch.
- Festive Fun: Bright red and green M&Ms, sprinkles, and more-it's an instant holiday mood booster.
- Super Easy to Make: No baking required, and it's ready in under 15 minutes.
- Perfect for Group Sharing: Makes a big batch, so it's great for parties, gift bags, or midnight snacking.
What exactly IS reindeer food?
Reindeer food (also called Reindeer Bait) is a holiday snack mix of cereal, popcorn, pretzels, nuts, chocolates, and festive sprinkles all tied together in one gooey, sweet, white chocolate coating.
Think of it like Christmas-themed trail mix - except way more fun and indulgent!
Key ingredients
Here are some of the must-haves in this festive recipe and why I love to use them.
Chex Cereal: The undisputed star of snack mixes! Its crisp, crunchy texture soaks up the white chocolate perfectly, giving every bite a satisfying crunch.
White Chocolate: This is the glue (literally) that holds everything together. Sweet, creamy, and festive, it transforms the mix into one cohesive treat.
M&Ms (Red & Green): Because what's a holiday snack mix without a pop of color? These little chocolate candies boost the chocolatey sweetness AND make your mix extra festive.
Heather's helpful hints
- Avoid burning your white chocolate by microwaving it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each step.
- Lay your mix flat on a baking sheet to cool. This ensures every piece gets fully coated and nothing clumps together.
- Feel free to mix in craisins, marshmallows, or even crushed candy canes for a peppermint twist!
Step-by-step instructions
Making reindeer bait is easier than wrapping presents-promise! Here's a step-by-step tutorial to show you how to make this Christmas dessert recipe.
Step 1
Combine your Chex cereal, Cheerios, peanuts, pretzels, and red/green M&Ms in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2
Melt the white chocolate chips and shortening in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Step 3
Pour the melted chocolate over your cereal mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Step 4
Spread the mixture onto your baking sheet in an even layer. Add festive sprinkles on top!
Tip: Allow the chocolate to cool and set completely. Once hardened, break the mix into snackable pieces, and you're done!
Variations to Try
Give your reindeer food a personal twist with these fun variations!
Kid-Friendly
- Skip the peanuts entirely to make it allergy-safe for all kids!
- Add mini marshmallows to give it a gooey twist that kids (and adults) will love.
Chocolate Lovers
Swap the white chocolate for milk or dark chocolate, or drizzle both for maximum decadence.
Peppermint Holiday
Crush some candy canes and sprinkle them into your mix for peppermint flair. Pair with hot cocoa for an unforgettable treat!
Crunch Levels
Prefer more crunch? Double the Cheerios!
Not a popcorn fan? Leave it out and compensate with more cereal or nuts.
Make ahead and storage
This recipe is perfect for prepping ahead of time. Just follow these simple storage tips!
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the mix 2-3 days in advance if stored correctly.
- Room Temperature Storage: Keep your reindeer food in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Yes, you can freeze it! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks. To thaw, leave it at room temperature for an hour (or snack on it frozen-it's delicious that way too).
Frequently asked questions
Absolutely! Substitute gluten-free pretzels and cereals, and check your M&Ms for any gluten warnings.
Sure! Candy melts work just fine, but they may not have the same creamy texture as white chocolate.
Scoop some reindeer food into clear treat bags, tie them with festive ribbons, and add a cute holiday tag!
Related recipes
If you're in the mood for more holiday recipes, check out these favorites from My Sweet Precision!
Not sure what to try? Check out our complete recipe index to search for recipes, baking tips, and more!
Recipe
Reindeer Bait
Ingredients
- 3 cups Chex cereal
- 3 cups Cheerios cereal
- 2 cups cooked popcorn
- 2 cups mini pretzels
- ½ cup peanuts
- 10 ounces red & green M&Ms
- 24 ounces white chocolate
- 2 tablespoons shortening
- Christmas sprinkles
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the Rice Chex, Cheerios, peanuts, pretzels, and M&Ms.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, add the white chocoalte chips and shortening. Microwave, stirring every 30 seconds, until completely melted.
- Pour the melted chocolate into the large bowl with the chex and popcorn mix. Toss until fully coated. Spread in an even layer on the baking sheet. Top with Christmas spinkles and allwo chocolate to cool.
Steph says
This was so simple to do with my kiddos that are 5 and 7. They can't wait to put it out for Christmas!
Heather says
Fantastic! I 100% agree, this recipe is so much fun to do with kids!