muddy buddies
A magical, irresistible no-bake recipe for chocolate peanut butter muddy buddies (also known as puppy chow) that comes together in minutes. This easy treat is a family favorite, perfect for snacks, playdates, sleepovers, and movie nights, and is known for disappearing quickly. It's a simple pleasure and a memory-making activity.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
9 cups Rice Chex Cereal
1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
1/2 cup Creamy Peanut Butter
1/4 cup Unsalted Butter
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
1 1/2 cups Powdered Sugar
Instructions
- Measure 9 cups of Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl. Set it aside
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, and butter. Microwave on high for 60 seconds
- Stir the mixture thoroughly until it is completely smooth and creamy. If you still see some unmelted chips, microwave for another 15-30 seconds, then stir again. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can seize
- Stir in the vanilla extract until it's well combined with the chocolate and peanut butter mixture
- Pour the warm chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the Chex cereal in the large bowl. Gently stir with a spatula until all the cereal pieces are evenly coated. Work quickly but carefully to avoid crushing the cereal
- Transfer the coated cereal into a large (2-gallon size) resealable plastic bag. Add the powdered sugar to the bag
- Seal the bag tightly, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Shake the bag vigorously until all the cereal pieces are thoroughly coated in powdered sugar
- Spread the finished muddy buddies out in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet or wax paper. Let them cool completely before serving
Notes
Use a really big bowl when coating the cereal to allow ample room for gentle mixing and to avoid crushing the delicate Chex pieces.
When melting the chocolate mixture, microwave in short intervals and stir thoroughly between each to prevent overheating, which can make chocolate grainy or seize.
Work quickly once the chocolate mixture is poured over the cereal, as it starts to set as it cools, ensuring an even coating.
The bag method is recommended for coating with powdered sugar to achieve the best, most even coverage with minimal mess.
Do not skimp on the 1 1/2 cups of powdered sugar; it's essential for the iconic snowy look and to prevent sticking.
Shake the bag vigorously to distribute the sugar, but be gentle to avoid crushing the cereal.
Cool the muddy buddies completely on parchment or wax paper before serving or storing; this crucial step ensures the chocolate sets properly and prevents clumping.
Store cooled muddy buddies in an airtight container at cool room temperature for about 5-7 days to maintain freshness and crispness. Refrigerating is not recommended as it can make them chewy and cause the sugar to absorb moisture.
If muddy buddies clump slightly after storage, gently break them apart with your hands.
Find it online: https://powerecipe.com/muddy-buddies/