Description
Chex Mix Muddy Buddies, also known as Puppy Chow, is a sweet, crunchy snack mix made with a luscious blend of dark and semi-sweet chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and crispy Rice Chex cereal, all generously coated in powdered sugar. This easy no-bake recipe creates delightful clumps of chocolaty goodness perfect for parties, gifts, or anytime snacking.
Ingredients
Scale
Chocolate Mixture
- 1/2 cup salted butter (1 stick)
- 1 1/2 cups dark chocolate chips (9 ounces)
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (9 ounces)
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons peanut butter (preferably Jif)
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Main
- 12 ounce box Rice Chex cereal (Corn Chex is acceptable; avoid wheat)
- 3 cups powdered sugar (divided)
Instructions
- Prepare the chocolate mixture: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine 1/2 cup butter, 1 1/2 cups dark chocolate chips, 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, and 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons peanut butter. Use regular peanut butter, not natural. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until mostly melted and then stir to achieve a fully smooth mixture. Take care to avoid scorching the chocolate.
- Add flavorings: Stir in 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract thoroughly into the melted chocolate and peanut butter blend.
- Coat the cereal: Gradually add the entire 12-ounce box of Rice Chex cereal in small batches into the chocolate mixture. Stir gently with a flexible rubber spatula after each addition until all cereal pieces are evenly coated, avoiding breaking up the cereal.
- Chill the mixture: Place the coated cereal bowl in the freezer for approximately 20 minutes or the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Gently stir after chilling to encourage clump formation. Return to chilling for an additional 10 minutes until the chocolate is tacky but not fully hardened.
- Apply powdered sugar: Spread the cereal mixture onto a 12×18 inch half baking sheet or a large bowl. Sprinkle about half (1 1/2 cups) of the powdered sugar over the mixture and gently stir to coat. Add the remaining powdered sugar as preferred, mixing carefully to keep the cereal clumps intact.
- Final chilling or setting: Optionally refrigerate or freeze the coated Muddy Buddies to harden the chocolate completely, or leave at room temperature to set.
- Store properly: Transfer the Puppy Chow to two large ziplock bags or an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for an extended period but is best enjoyed within 24 hours. Refrigeration is recommended for a cooler treat during warm weather. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use regular creamy peanut butter (like Jif) rather than natural peanut butter for optimal texture and coating.
- Microwave chocolate mixture in short increments to prevent burning.
- Use a flexible rubber spatula for mixing cereal to avoid breaking it.
- You can adjust the amount of powdered sugar to make the coating lighter or heavier.
- Store in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
- Excellent as a party snack or gift, and perfect both cold or at room temperature.
