This beloved sweet treat goes by two names – Muddy Buddies or Puppy Chow – but delivers one irresistible snacking experience. Ready in just 15 minutes, this no-fuss recipe transforms ordinary cereal into a chocolate-coated, powdered sugar-dusted delight that both kids and adults can’t resist. Whether you’re planning a party, need an afternoon pick-me-up, or craving something sweet, these addictive little bites strike the perfect balance of chocolate, crunch, and pure joy.
Essential Ingredients
- Chex Cereal: 8 cups – Choose rice or corn variety, or mix both for interesting texture
- Powdered Sugar: 2 cups – Creates the signature sweet coating
- Chocolate Chips: 1½ cups semisweet – Forms the rich chocolate base
- Peanut Butter: ¾ cup creamy – Adds smooth nutty flavor
- Butter: 4 tablespoons salted – Creates silky coating texture
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon – Enhances overall flavor profile
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep Work: Place cereal in a large bowl and divide powdered sugar between two ziplock bags (1 cup each)
- Create Coating: Combine chocolate chips, butter, and peanut butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat until smooth
- Add Flavor: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract until well combined
- Coat Cereal: Pour chocolate mixture over cereal and gently stir until evenly coated
- Cool Down: Let the mixture rest for a few minutes to slightly set
- Sugar Coating: Divide coated cereal between sugar-filled bags and shake until well covered
- Storage: Keep in airtight container for up to 1 week at room temperature or freeze for 2 months
Variations & Mix-ins
Love this classic snack but want to try something new? You can easily switch things up! Try white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet, or add some fun mix-ins after coating. My favorites are mini M&Ms, crushed Oreos, or toffee bits. For a holiday twist, mix in some seasonal candies or colored sprinkles. Just remember to add any extras after the powdered sugar coating so they stick better!
Storage Tips
Keep your muddy buddies fresh and crunchy by storing them properly! Pop them in an airtight container at room temperature – they’ll stay tasty for about a week. If you make a big batch, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just let them come to room temperature before eating. One quick tip: add a paper towel to the bottom of your storage container to help absorb any extra moisture and keep them perfectly crispy!
Serving Ideas
This sweet treat is perfect for so many occasions! Pack them in small bags for lunch boxes or party favors. Fill a big bowl for movie night or game day snacking. They’re great for holiday gift-giving too – just fill mason jars and tie with a pretty ribbon. Want to make them extra special? Serve them alongside hot chocolate in winter or cold milk in summer. Kids and grown-ups both go crazy for these!
Quick Tips
Here are some helpful hints for perfect muddy buddies every time: Don’t skip the cooling step after coating the cereal – this helps the chocolate set just right. Shake the bags gently to avoid crushing the cereal. If your mixture seems too thick when melting, add an extra tablespoon of butter. Working in two batches with separate bags makes coating much easier and more even. Your powdered sugar should completely coat each piece – if needed, add a little extra!
Muddy Buddies (aka Puppy Chow)
Equipment
- Large Bowl
- Saucepan
- Ziplock Bags
Ingredients
For Muddy Buddies
- 8 cups chex cereal rice Chex, corn Chex or a combination
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 4 Tablespoons salted butter or add a pinch salt if using unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Measure cereal into a large bowl. Set aside.
- Divide powdered sugar between two ziplock bags, adding 1 cup to each bag.* Set aside.
- In a saucepan add chocolate chips, butter, and peanut butter (and salt, if using unsalted butter) and cook over medium-low heat, stirring, until melted and smooth. (Don’t over-heat it–just warm it until melted and smooth.)
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour over the prepared cereal in the bowl and stir to coat evenly. Allow to cool for a few minutes.
- Divide coated cereal between the two ziplock bags with powdered sugar, seal the bag and shake to coat the cereal.
- Muddy buddies will stay fresh for up to 1 week stored in an air-tight container at room temperature or can be frozen for up to 2 months.
