Muddy Buddies (Puppy Chow)

Sweet, crunchy, and irresistibly chocolatey, these Muddy Buddies are the ultimate no-bake snack. A delightful mix of Chex cereal coated in melted chocolate, peanut butter, and powdered sugar, they’re quick to make and perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself.

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Ingredients

• 8 cups Chex cereal (rice, corn, or a mix) (240 g)
• 2 cups powdered sugar (240 g)
• 1½ cups semisweet chocolate chips (270 g)
• ¾ cup creamy peanut butter (190 g)
• 4 tablespoons salted butter (57 g) (add a pinch of salt if using unsalted butter)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Cereal and Sugar

Place the Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl.
Divide the powdered sugar into two large zip-top bags, adding 1 cup to each. Set both aside.

2. Melt the Chocolate Mixture

In a medium saucepan, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter.
Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
Avoid overheating—remove from heat as soon as the mixture is silky and combined.
Stir in the vanilla extract.

3. Coat the Cereal

Pour the warm chocolate mixture over the cereal. Gently stir until all pieces are evenly coated. Let cool slightly for a few minutes.

4. Add Powdered Sugar

Divide the coated cereal between the two bags of powdered sugar.
Seal each bag tightly and shake well until the cereal is completely covered in sugar.

5. Cool and Store

Spread the Muddy Buddies out on a baking sheet to cool completely before storing.
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 2 months.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No baking required: Quick, easy, and mess-free.
• Perfect texture: Crunchy cereal coated in smooth chocolate and sweet sugar.
• Crowd-pleaser: Great for parties, holidays, or gifting.
• Kid-friendly: Fun and easy for kids to help make.

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Tips

• Use gentle heat when melting chocolate to prevent it from seizing.
• Shake the bags well to coat evenly—don’t skip dividing the sugar; it coats better in smaller batches.
• Let the coated cereal cool fully before sealing it to keep it crisp.
• For less mess, line your counter or baking sheet with parchment paper when cooling.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Nut-Free: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or cookie butter.
• Extra Crunchy: Add pretzel pieces, nuts, or mini rice cakes before coating.
• Flavor Twist: Try white chocolate, dark chocolate, or mint chocolate chips.
• Festive Touch: Add colored sprinkles or mini M&Ms for holidays or parties.

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FAQs

Why is it called Muddy Buddies (or Puppy Chow)?
It gets its name from the muddy look of the chocolate coating—though don’t worry, it’s strictly for humans, not dogs!

Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes! Any creamy nut butter works well, though texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Why is my chocolate mixture too thick?
It may have overheated. Try stirring in a teaspoon of oil to loosen it up before mixing with the cereal.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Serve in bowls for parties, or portion into small snack bags for on-the-go treats.
• Enjoy as a movie-night snack, holiday gift, or sweet lunchbox surprise.
• Sprinkle over ice cream or yogurt for an extra crunchy topping.