Muddy Buddies (aka Puppy Chow)
If you’re looking for a sweet snack that’s both crunchy and creamy, look no further than Muddy Buddies (aka Puppy Chow). This delightful treat is perfect for parties, movie nights, or just a cozy afternoon at home. Made with Chex cereal, creamy peanut butter, and a generous coating of powdered sugar, Muddy Buddies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
Top Reasons to Make Muddy Buddies (aka Puppy Chow)
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just minutes to prepare, making it an ideal last-minute treat.
- Customizable: Feel free to mix and match your favorite cereals or add in some extras like nuts or dried fruit.
- Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a potluck, a picnic, or a simple family gathering, Muddy Buddies are always a hit.
- No Baking Required: Everything is mixed together and cooled, meaning no need to turn on the oven.
- Kid-Friendly: This fun treat is a great way to involve children in the kitchen. They’ll love shaking the bags to coat the cereal!
Ingredient Notes
- 8 cups Chex cereal: You can use rice Chex, corn Chex, or a combination of both for a varied texture.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: This will give your Muddy Buddies their signature sweetness and snowy appearance.
- 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips: Choose high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. Dark chocolate can also be used for a richer taste.
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter: Creamy peanut butter ensures a smooth coating. You can substitute with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
- 4 tablespoons salted butter: The butter adds richness and helps the chocolate mixture to melt smoothly. If using unsalted butter, consider adding a pinch of salt.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: This enhances the overall flavor and adds a lovely aroma to your Muddy Buddies.
Gear Up: What to Grab
- Large mixing bowl: For combining your ingredients thoroughly.
- Microwave-safe bowl: To melt the chocolate, peanut butter, and butter mixture.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: To stir and mix all the ingredients together.
- Resealable plastic bags: Perfect for coating the cereal with powdered sugar without making a mess.
- Baking sheet: For spreading out the finished Muddy Buddies to cool properly.
Muddy Buddies (aka Puppy Chow) in Steps
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients and equipment. This will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Step 2: Melt the Mixture
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, and salted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Combine with Chex Cereal
In a large mixing bowl, pour the Chex cereal. Carefully pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal. Gently stir with a spatula or wooden spoon until all the cereal is evenly coated.
Step 4: Coat with Powdered Sugar
Transfer the coated cereal into a large resealable plastic bag. Add the powdered sugar, seal the bag, and shake until the cereal is thoroughly coated.
Step 5: Let it Cool
Spread the Muddy Buddies out on a baking sheet to cool completely. This will help the chocolate set and make them easier to snack on.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Once cooled, serve your Muddy Buddies in a bowl or store them in an airtight container. They can last for up to a week, though they’re likely to disappear much faster than that!
Make It Diet-Friendly
- Gluten-Free: Ensure you use certified gluten-free Chex cereal.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Nut-Free: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter.
- Lower Sugar: Reduce the amount of powdered sugar or use a sugar substitute, though this may affect the texture.
Troubles You Can Avoid
- Avoid over-melting the chocolate mixture; it can become too thick. Stirring frequently helps maintain a smooth texture.
- Ensure the Chex cereal is completely coated before adding the powdered sugar for the best results.
- If your Muddy Buddies become clumpy, try adding a little more powdered sugar and shaking again to separate the pieces.
- Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent them from becoming stale.
Make Ahead Like a Pro
You can prepare Muddy Buddies in advance, making them perfect for busy schedules. Here are some tips:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator; they can last up to two weeks.
- Consider portioning them into snack bags for easy grab-and-go treats.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cereal?
Absolutely! While Chex cereal is traditional, any puffed or crunchy cereal can work well. Experiment with your favorites!
How can I make Muddy Buddies more chocolatey?
If you love chocolate, consider adding an extra half cup of chocolate chips to the melting mixture for a richer flavor.
What should I do if my Muddy Buddies are too sticky?
If you find they are sticky after coating, try adding a little more powdered sugar in the bag and shaking it gently to coat them better.
Can I freeze Muddy Buddies?
Yes! You can freeze Muddy Buddies in an airtight container. Just allow them to thaw at room temperature before serving.
Try These Next
Let’s Eat
Muddy Buddies (aka Puppy Chow) are a delightful treat that pleases both kids and adults alike. With their sweet, crunchy texture and easy preparation, they will undoubtedly become a staple in your snack repertoire. Whether you enjoy them as a quick treat, a party snack, or a midnight indulgence, they’re sure to bring joy to any occasion. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the fun begin—because these Muddy Buddies are just begging to be made!
Muddy Buddies (aka Puppy Chow)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather all your ingredients and equipment. This will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, and salted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a large mixing bowl, pour the Chex cereal. Carefully pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal. Gently stir with a spatula or wooden spoon until all the cereal is evenly coated.
- Transfer the coated cereal into a large resealable plastic bag. Add the powdered sugar, seal the bag, and shake until the cereal is thoroughly coated.
- Spread the Muddy Buddies out on a baking sheet to cool completely. This will help the chocolate set and make them easier to snack on.
- Once cooled, serve your Muddy Buddies in a bowl or store them in an airtight container. They can last for up to a week.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent them from becoming stale.
- For a nut-free option, use sunflower seed butter.
- Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or dried fruits for added texture.
