A grown-up take on the childhood treat.

So I started experimenting.

Could I make a version that pleased my adult palate?

Nutella puppy chow on a sheet pan

Simply Recipes / Ciara Kehoe

The answer: Nutella.

An Italian Twist

Everyone loves Nutella, and for good reason.

The Italian hazelnut-chocolate spread is, in a word, delicious.

Bowl of nutella puppy chow next to a smaller bowl with more on a counter with some pieces of puppy chow scattered around

Simply Recipes / Ciara Kehoe

An Optional Upgrade

For a little bit of toastiness, brown the butter first.

Start out with just over 1/4 cup to account for any evaporation and brown the butter in the microwave.

Then add the chocolate chips and espresso powder and stir.

Bowl of nutella puppy chow

Simply Recipes / Ciara Kehoe

Stir in the vanilla and proceed with the recipe.

I dont recommend using Wheat Chex.

Youll want a bowl thats roomy enough that you could easily stir the cereal.

Bowl of nutella puppy chow next to a smaller bowl with more on a counter with some pieces of puppy chow scattered around

Add the Nutella, chocolate, butter, and espresso powder to a microwave-safe bowl.

Microwave on high for 30 seconds and stir.

Add the vanilla and stir.

Close-up: honey popcorn (filling up the entire photo)

Immediately drizzle the chocolate mixture over the Chex.

Its okay if it seems stiff.

Toss gently, using a big spoon or rubber spatula, until the Chex are well-coated.

Side view of a bowl of candied pecans.

This may take a few minutes, but keep tossing and the mixture will coat the cereal.

Alternatively, you’ve got the option to add the ingredients to a really big zip-top bag.

I like to use my hands about halfway through to toss and break up any clusters.

Sweet and spicy chex mix in a bowl at a table setting with two glasses of beer and a yellow kitchen towel

If it still feels stickier than youd like, transfer it to the fridge.

Store leftover cooled puppy chow in an airtight container.

It will keep for a few days at room temperature and in the fridge for a week or more.

overhead view of Classic Mixed Nuts on a sheet pan

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