If you’re craving a fun, sweet, and addictive treat, you’ll love this simple recipe for Muddy Buddies (also known as Puppy Chow). Made with Chex cereal, chocolate, peanut butter, and powdered sugar, this mix of crunchy, creamy, and sweet textures will leave everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering, enjoying them with family, or gifting them to friends, these treats are sure to be a hit.
Table of Contents
- What are Muddy Buddies?
- How to Make Classic Muddy Buddies
- Tips and Tricks for Perfect Muddy Buddies
- Different Flavors and Variations
- Healthy and Vegan Alternatives
- Creative Ways to Serve Muddy Buddies
- Storage and Shelf Life
- Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Nutritional Information
- FAQs
- Conclusion
What are Muddy Buddies?
Muddy Buddies are a delightful mix of Chex cereal, coated in melted chocolate and peanut butter, then tossed in powdered sugar for a sweet and satisfying treat. Often referred to as Puppy Chow, these snacks are a perfect blend of crunchy and creamy, with a sugar-coated crunch that’s irresistibly good.
How to Make Classic Muddy Buddies
Ingredients List
- 9 cups Chex cereal (corn, rice, or wheat)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup peanut butter
- ¼ cup butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Cereal
In a large bowl, pour in 9 cups of Chex cereal. Spread it out evenly to make sure it’s easy to coat later. - Melt the Chocolate Mixture
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir. Microwave for an additional 30 seconds or until the mixture is smooth. - Add Flavor
Stir in vanilla extract for an extra flavor boost. - Coat the Cereal
Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the Chex cereal and gently stir to coat each piece evenly. - Powdered Sugar Coating
Transfer the coated cereal into a resealable plastic bag. Add powdered sugar, seal the bag, and shake until the cereal is fully coated. - Cool the Treats
Spread the coated cereal on wax paper and allow it to cool completely before serving. Once cooled, break it into bite-sized pieces.
Recipe Card
Muddy Buddies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Servings: 12-16 servings (depending on portion size)
Ingredients:
- 9 cups Chex cereal (corn, rice, or wheat)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup peanut butter
- ¼ cup butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, pour in 9 cups of Chex cereal.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 cup of chocolate chips, ½ cup of peanut butter, and ¼ cup of butter in 1-minute intervals. Stir between each.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix thoroughly.
- Pour the chocolate mixture over the cereal, and mix until evenly coated.
- Add 1 ½ cups of powdered sugar to a resealable bag. Add the coated cereal and shake well.
- Spread the Muddy Buddies on wax paper to cool.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Muddy Buddies
- Even Coating: Ensure each piece of cereal is fully coated by mixing well.
- Flavor Variations: For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet.
- Extra Powdered Sugar: If the mixture feels sticky, add more powdered sugar to coat it properly.
Different Flavors and Variations
Peanut Butter and Chocolate
The classic combo with a creamy, rich texture.
White Chocolate and Peppermint
Add crushed peppermint candies to the white chocolate for a festive touch, perfect for the holidays.
Cookies and Cream
Using white chocolate and crushed Oreos creates a fun twist on the classic treat.
S’mores Muddy Buddies
Combine mini marshmallows, graham cracker crumbs, and chocolate chips for a campfire-inspired variation.
Healthy and Vegan Alternatives
Ingredients for Healthier Muddy Buddies
- Whole grain Chex cereal
- Dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)
- Natural peanut butter
- Coconut oil
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Organic powdered sugar or a sugar substitute
Vegan Muddy Buddie’s Recipe
- Use dark chocolate and coconut oil as substitutes for chocolate chips and butter.
- Choose natural peanut butter with no added sugars or oils.
Gluten-Free Options
- Ensure you use gluten-free Chex cereal and verify that all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Creative Ways to Serve Muddy Buddies
- Party Favors: Package Muddy Buddie’s in mason jars, tied with a ribbon, or in festive bags with personalized tags.
- Holiday-Themed: Add colored sugar or sprinkles to match the holiday season or create custom mixes with favorite candies.
- Dessert Ideas: Use Muddy Buddie’s as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or mix them into brownies for added crunch.
Storage and Shelf Life
Best Practices for Storing Muddy Buddies
Store your Muddy Buddies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and crunchy.
How Long Do They Last?
They can stay fresh for up to 1 week if stored properly.
Freezing Muddy Buddies
If you want to store them for a longer period, place them in a resealable plastic bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Fixing Clumpy Muddy Buddies
If your mixture is too thick and clumpy, make sure the chocolate and peanut butter are fully melted and mixed before pouring it over the cereal.
Preventing Staleness
Always store your Muddy Buddie’s in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness.
Nutritional Information
A typical serving of Muddy Buddies contains around 210 calories.
Nutritional Breakdown (per serving):
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 3g
FAQs
What are Muddy Buddies made of?
Muddy Buddie’s are made with Chex cereal, chocolate, peanut butter, and powdered sugar.
How long do Muddy Buddies stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container, Muddy Buddie’s will stay fresh for up to 1 week.
Can you freeze Muddy Buddies?
Yes! Muddy Buddies can be frozen for up to 3 months in a resealable plastic bag.
How do you make Muddy Buddies without peanut butter?
You can substitute peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
Conclusion
Muddy Buddies are a fun, delicious, and customizable treat. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with new flavors, this snack is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making these tasty treats, and don’t forget to share with friends and family!