Best Muddy Buddies Recipe

Muddy buddies (aka puppy chow) is a classic snack made with crunchy Chex cereal coated in peanut butter and chocolate then tossed in powdered sugar. It’s addicting!

Need more sweet snack ideas? Try zucchini chocolate chip muffins, homemade granola bars or chocolate cupcakes!

Chex Muddy Buddies

Sweet and crunchy, muddy buddies, also known as puppy chow, is a popular snack mix made by mixing together Chex cereal, melted chocolate and peanut butter. After being coated it’s tossed in powdered sugar for a seriously addicting treat!

This classic muddy buddy recipe is an easy snack to whip up in a pinch. There is no baking required and it’s ready in 15 minutes from start to finish. I also love fun variations like this trail mix muddy buddies or lemon muddy buddies!

Why You’ll Love Puppy Chow

• No bake. On days where you don’t feel like heating up the oven, a Chex muddy buddies recipe is the perfect option. All you need is a microwave and 15 minutes!
• Irresistible treat. Crunchy, creamy, sweet and chocolatey, this delicious treat has a little bit of everything and is basically addicting after just one bite!
• Crowd-pleasing. If you made this growing up, you know both kids and adults love Chex mix muddy buddies. It’s perfect for any party or gathering!

Ingredients Needed

Muddy buddies is also known as puppy chow. Some believe it got that name because it resembles dog dog in looks (but certainly not in taste).

Find the full printable recipe with specific measurements below.

• Chex cereal: I personally think Rice Chex cereal has the best flavor and texture and is best if gluten-free is needed. Corn Chex or Crispix cereal also work.
• Chocolate chips: Semi sweet chocolate chips are my favorite to use.
• Peanut butter: I like to use a little bit more peanut butter than the original recipe calls for. It adds the perfect flavor. Make sure to use the creamy kind (not drippy or oily). I prefer Jiff or Skippy.
• Butter: This mixes with the chocolate and peanut butter to add a layer of richness.
• Vanilla: Add a dash of pure vanilla extract for an extra boost of flavor.
• Powdered sugar: This coats the muddy buddies for the perfect hint of sweetness.

How to Make Muddy Buddies

1. Melt the chocolate chips, peanut butter and butter in a bowl in the microwave. Then stir the mixture until completely smooth. Once smooth, mix in the vanilla extract.
2. Pour the cereal into a large bowl, then pour the melted chocolate on top. Gently stir until the cereal is fully coated.

3. Transfer the chocolate mixture into a gallon sized zip top bag and pour in the powdered sugar. Seal the bag and shake until all of the muddy buddies have a nice coating of sugar.
4. Pour onto a piece of wax paper to cool completely.

Tips and Variations

• Melting the chocolate. You don’t want the chocolate to burn, so be careful when melting the mixture in the microwave. It’s helpful to work in 15 or 30-second intervals so that it stays smooth and you have more control over the consistency.
• Coating in sugar. Use a gallon size plastic bag to toss the chocolate covered Chex muddy buddy mixture with powdered sugar. If the bag is super full, you might want to work in two batches or use two bags for tossing. You want to make sure it gets well coated so that each piece has that deliciously sweet taste.
• Variations: I love Christmas reindeer chow with peanut butter cups or add-in Reese’s pieces for Reese’s muddy buddies.
• Mix-in’s. If you’re adding in mix-in’s such as M&M’s or Reese’s pieces, wait to add them until after you coat the muddy buddies in chocolate and powdered sugar. That way they won’t stick to the cereal and become clumpy.

Storage

Store Chex muddy buddies in an airtight container or bag at room temperature or in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days. You can also freeze up to 3 months.

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