If you’re craving something sweet, crunchy, and incredibly easy to make, this Chex Mix Muddy Buddies recipe is the perfect solution. Also known as puppy chow, this classic no-bake snack combines crisp Chex cereal with a rich chocolate–peanut butter coating and a generous dusting of powdered sugar. It’s fast, fun, and perfect for a quick lunch treat, movie-night snack, or a small batch dessert for two.
Why You’ll Love This Chex Mix Muddy Buddies Recipe
This recipe is a go-to for busy days when you want something homemade without turning on the oven. It comes together in just minutes, uses pantry staples, and delivers that perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and crunchy in every bite.
Muddy Buddies are also endlessly customizable. You can keep them classic or add fun mix-ins to make them your own. Whether you’re making a quick snack for yourself or a treat to share, this Chex Mix Muddy Buddies recipe never disappoints.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chex cereal (Rice or Corn Chex)
- Chocolate chips
- Creamy peanut butter
- Unsalted butter
- Vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar
These simple ingredients work together to coat every piece of cereal in a smooth, chocolatey layer that’s finished with a sweet powdered sugar crunch.
How to Make Chex Mix Muddy Buddies (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Measure the Cereal
Add the Chex cereal to a large mixing bowl. Set aside while you prepare the chocolate coating.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave in short intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.
Step 3: Add Vanilla
Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Step 4: Coat the Cereal
Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the Chex cereal. Gently stir until all pieces are evenly coated without crushing the cereal.
Step 5: Toss with Powdered Sugar
Transfer the coated cereal to a large zip-top bag or bowl. Add the powdered sugar, seal, and shake (or toss gently) until all pieces are fully coated.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Spread the Muddy Buddies onto parchment paper and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
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Easy Chex Mix Muddy Buddies Snack Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Easy Chex Mix Muddy Buddies (also called puppy chow) are a quick, no-bake snack made with crispy Chex cereal coated in melted chocolate and peanut butter, then tossed in powdered sugar. Sweet, crunchy, and ready in minutes—perfect for snacks, parties, or a small-batch treat.
Ingredients
4 cups Rice Chex (or Corn Chex)
3/4 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk)
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
1. Measure the Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl and set aside.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, add chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter.
3. Microwave in 20–30 second bursts, stirring well each time, until fully melted and smooth.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Pour the chocolate mixture over the Chex cereal. Gently fold until all pieces are evenly coated.
6. Add powdered sugar to a large zip-top bag (or a lidded container). Add the coated cereal.
7. Seal and shake gently until every piece is well coated in powdered sugar.
8. Spread on parchment paper for 5–10 minutes to cool and set. Serve immediately or store.
Notes
For a snack for two, cut the recipe in half or store leftovers for later.
Nut-free option: swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter.
Add-ins: stir in mini pretzels or mini marshmallows after coating (once cooled).
Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature up to 5 days, or refrigerate up to 7 days for extra freshness.
Tip: Shake gently to avoid crushing the cereal, and let the coating cool slightly before adding powdered sugar.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
Tips & Variations
- Chunky mix: Add pretzels, mini marshmallows, or extra cereal for texture
- Nut-free option: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter
- Chocolate swap: Milk or dark chocolate chips work beautifully
- Holiday twist: Add festive sprinkles after coating
- Less sweet: Reduce powdered sugar slightly for a lighter coating
Serving Ideas & Storage
Chex Mix Muddy Buddies are perfect on their own as a snack or dessert. Serve them in small bowls for parties, pack them into snack bags, or enjoy a handful with coffee or milk.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ~260 | 6g | 30g | 14g | 2g | 18g |
Final Thoughts
This Chex Mix Muddy Buddies recipe proves that the simplest snacks are often the most satisfying. Sweet, crunchy, and ready in minutes, it’s a timeless treat you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re whipping up a small batch for yourself or sharing with friends, this easy snack recipe always hits the spot.