Picture this: a cozy evening, the family gathered around, and a bowl of something irresistibly crunchy and sweet in the center—yes, I’m talking about puppy chow. It’s a snack that takes me back to simpler times, like the 2022 TikTok trends that seemed silly yet oddly comforting. Whether you’re 8 or 80, this treat has a magical way of bringing people together, even if just for a few messy, powdered-sugar-covered moments.
Steps
- Start by measuring out the Chex cereal into a large bowl and set it aside for later use.
- Take the powdered sugar and split it evenly between two ziplock bags, each containing 1 cup. Put these bags aside for now.
- In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine chocolate chips, butter, and peanut butter. Stir until the mixture is fully melted and smooth, then take it off the heat.
- Add the vanilla extract to the melted mixture and stir well to combine the flavors.
- Pour the chocolate mixture over the Chex cereal in the bowl, ensuring the cereal is evenly coated. Let it cool slightly.
- Transfer the coated cereal into the two prepared ziplock bags with powdered sugar. Seal the bags and shake thoroughly to cover the cereal with sugar.
Ingredients
- Chex cereal: 9-10 cups
- Powdered sugar: 2 cups (divided into two ziplock bags, 1 cup each)
- Chocolate chips: 1 cup
- Butter: 1/2 cup
- Peanut butter: 1/2 cup
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: Optional, if using unsalted butter
- ins:
- M&M’s
- Reese’s Pieces
- Mini chocolate chips
- Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
- Any small colored candies
Nutritional Values
Calories: 720kcal | Carbohydrates: 103g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 32g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Cholesterol: 17mg | Sodium: 518mg | Potassium: 577mg | Fiber: 12g | Sugar: 50g | Vitamin A: 851IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 165mg | Iron: 22mg
FAQ
- What are some alternative names for Muddy Buddies?
- Muddy Buddies are also commonly known as “Puppy Chow,” “Monkey Munch,” or “Reindeer Chow.”
- Can I make Muddy Buddies ahead of time, and how should I store them?
- Yes, Muddy Buddies can be prepared in advance. They will stay fresh for up to one week if stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Additionally, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to two months.
- What are some possible substitutions for the ingredients in Muddy Buddies?
- You can substitute peanut butter with any type of nut butter. For the cereal, Crispix is a good alternative to Chex cereal.
- What are some creative add-ins for Muddy Buddies?
- You can enhance your Muddy Buddies by adding M&M’s, Reese’s Pieces, mini chocolate chips, Reese’s peanut butter cups, or any small colorful candies.
- How should I coat the cereal with powdered sugar if I don’t have ziplock bags?
- If ziplock bags are unavailable, you can use a large container with a lid to shake the mixture. Alternatively, spread the mixture onto a large baking sheet and sift powdered sugar over it, then toss to coat evenly.
Tips
- To prevent overheating the chocolate mixture, melt the chocolate chips, butter, and peanut butter over medium-low heat, stirring regularly until just smooth and melted. Overheating can cause the chocolate to seize.
- If you don’t have ziplock bags available, use a large container with a lid to shake the cereal with powdered sugar or spread the mixture on a baking sheet and sift the sugar over it, tossing to coat evenly.
- For variety, consider substituting peanut butter with any other type of nut butter, or use Crispix cereal instead of Chex for a different texture.
- Enhance your Muddy Buddies by adding extras like M&M’s, Reese’s pieces, mini chocolate chips, or any small colorful candies to suit your preferences.
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl – If you don’t already have one suitable for mixing a large batch.
- Saucepan – For melting the chocolate, butter, and peanut butter together.
- Airtight Containers – For storing the muddy buddies to keep them fresh.
- Freezer Safe Bags or Containers – If you plan to freeze the muddy buddies.
