Muddy Buddies, also known as Puppy Chow, is the ultimate sweet-and-savory snack that’s impossible to resist. In just 18 minutes, you can whip up a batch of crunchy, chocolate-coated cereal bites dusted with powdered sugar. The combination of rich cocoa, creamy peanut butter, and a hint of vanilla creates a flavor explosion that’s both indulgent and comforting. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or a quick treat, this no-bake delight is as fun to make as it is to eat.
Each bite offers a satisfying mix of textures—crispy cereal, velvety chocolate, and a soft, sugary finish. Packed with fiber and protein, it’s a snack that feels indulgent yet keeps you energized. Whether you’re sharing with friends or sneaking a handful for yourself, Muddy Buddies are guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfy cravings in minutes.
Ingredients for Muddy Buddies (Puppy Chow)
- 9 cups Chex Cereal (any variety works—rice, corn, or wheat)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (use dark chocolate for a richer flavor)
- ½ cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy, or substitute with almond butter for a nut-free option)
- ¼ cup margarine (or unsalted butter for a richer taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (use pure vanilla for the best flavor)
- 1½ cups powdered sugar (sift if lumpy for even coating)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the cereal: Pour 9 cups of Chex Cereal into a large mixing bowl. Set aside.
- Make the chocolate sauce: In a microwave-safe 1-quart bowl, combine 1 cup chocolate chips, ½ cup peanut butter, and ¼ cup margarine. Microwave for 1 to 1½ minutes or until melted and smooth, stirring after the first minute.
- Add vanilla: Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract into the melted chocolate mixture until fully combined.
- Coat the cereal: Slowly pour the chocolate sauce over the cereal, stirring gently to ensure each piece is evenly coated.
- Prepare for shaking: Transfer the coated cereal into a large, resealable plastic bag (or use a large container with a tight-fitting lid).
- Add powdered sugar: Add 1½ cups powdered sugar to the bag, secure it, and shake vigorously until the cereal is well coated with sugar.
- Serve and enjoy: Spread the Muddy Buddies on a tray or directly into a serving bowl. Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Creative Topping and Mix-In Ideas
Take your Muddy Buddies to the next level by adding fun toppings or mix-ins! Try sprinkling crushed pretzels for a salty crunch, or mix in mini marshmallows for a gooey surprise. For a festive twist, add sprinkles or drizzle with white chocolate after coating. These extras make your Puppy Chow even more irresistible!
Perfect Serving Suggestions
Muddy Buddies are perfect for parties, movie nights, or as a sweet snack. Serve them in individual paper cones for a cute, mess-free treat, or pile them high in a large bowl for sharing. Pair with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert combo.
Storage Tips for Freshness
Store your Muddy Buddies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 1 month. If they lose their crunch, spread them on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes to revive.
Time-Saving Hacks
Short on time? Use a large resealable bag to coat the cereal with powdered sugar—it’s quicker and less messy than shaking in batches. You can also melt the chocolate mixture in a small saucepan on the stovetop if you prefer not to use the microwave. These small tweaks save you precious minutes!
Recipe Variations to Try
Switch things up by using white chocolate chips or dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet. For a nut-free version, swap peanut butter with sunflower seed butter. You can also experiment with different cereals like Cheerios or Rice Krispies for a unique texture. The possibilities are endless!
Muddy Buddies (Puppy Chow)
Ingredients
- 9 cups Chex Cereal
- 1 cup semi sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup margarine
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Pour cereal into large bowl; set aside.
- In 1-quart, microwave-safe bowl combine chocolate chips, peanut butter and margarine.
- Microwave for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes or until smooth, stirring after 1 minute.
- Stir in vanilla.
- Pour chocolate sauce slowly over cereal, stirring to coat evenly.
- Pour cereal into large plastic bag.
- Add powdered sugar and secure; shake to coat well.
- Add powdered sugar and secure; shake to coat well.