Trash Bag Candy
A fun, no-bake treat combining crunchy Rice Chex coated in a rich chocolate and peanut butter mixture, then dusted with powdered sugar for a sweet, crunchy snack perfect for parties.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix peanut butter, chocolate chips, and margarine in a saucepan.
- Cook on low heat until melted, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and stir in Rice Chex until evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into a clean trash bag.
- Add powdered sugar over the mixture in the bag.
- Seal the bag and shake until the Chex are coated with powdered sugar.
- Transfer to an airtight container and store.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother mixture, ensure the peanut butter is at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a crunchier texture, consider adding chopped nuts or using a mix of cereals like Cheerios or Corn Chex. For a twist, try swapping chocolate chips for butterscotch chips for a different flavor profile. This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted based on personal taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Trash Bag Candy as a fun snack at parties or during movie nights. They pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee. For a festive touch, consider packaging them in clear bags tied with a ribbon for gift-giving. They also make a delightful treat alongside desserts like Sour Cream Gingerbread for a sweet spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Trash Bag Candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate them, which can extend their shelf life to two weeks. For best results, avoid exposing them to moisture, which can cause them to become sticky.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Trash Bag Candy contains roughly 1029 calories, with 10g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 546mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of regular peanut butter?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly. Natural peanut butter tends to be thinner, which might make it harder to coat the Rice Chex evenly. If you do use it, ensure to mix it well to combine the oil before measuring.
What can I substitute for Rice Chex?
If Rice Chex isn't available, you can substitute with other similar cereals like Corn Chex or even Crispix. Just ensure they are a similar size and texture to maintain the balance of flavors. Alternatively, for a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free cereal varieties that can provide the right crunch.
How do I know when the mixture is ready?
The mixture is ready when the chocolate chips and peanut butter are completely melted and combined, forming a smooth consistency. Stir continuously to prevent burning. It should be glossy and easy to coat the Rice Chex without clumps. Remove from heat promptly to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).