Name: Pumpkin Spice Muddy Buddies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 2 min
Total time: 12 min
Ingredients: 6 cups Cinnamon Chex Cereal; 2 cups white chocolate chips; 1 teaspoon vegetable oil; 2 ½ cups powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; ½ teaspoon nutmeg

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Pumpkin Spice Muddy Buddies are the ultimate fall treat, blending cozy spices with irresistible crunch in just 12 minutes. The warm, aromatic blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin spice coats every bite, while the creamy white chocolate adds a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth finish. Perfect for snacking or sharing, this quick recipe delivers a symphony of textures—crispy, chewy, and delightfully sweet—all in one bowl.

With only 10 minutes of prep and 2 minutes of cooking, these muddy buddies are a fuss-free way to savor the season. Each handful is packed with autumnal flavors, offering a comforting balance of richness and spice. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself, this snack is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels indulgent yet effortless.

What You’ll Need

6 cups Cinnamon Chex Cereal
2 cups white chocolate chips (use high-quality for smoother melting)
1 teaspoon vegetable oil (or coconut oil for a hint of flavor)
2 ½ cups powdered sugar (sifted for easier mixing)
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (or make your own blend with cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (freshly grated for best flavor)

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Muddy Buddies

Prepare the cereal: Pour the Cinnamon Chex Cereal into a large mixing bowl and set aside.
Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Microwave on high for 2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until smooth and fully melted.
Mix the spices: In a separate bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly combined.
Coat the cereal: Pour the melted white chocolate over the Cinnamon Chex Cereal. Use a spatula to gently fold until the cereal is evenly coated.
Add the sugar mixture: Sprinkle the powdered sugar mixture over the coated cereal. Fold gently until the cereal is fully coated and no dry spots remain.
Finish and serve: Lightly sprinkle a little extra pumpkin pie spice on top for a festive touch. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Creative Serving Suggestions

Serve your Pumpkin Spice Muddy Buddies in festive fall-themed bowls or mason jars for a cozy touch. They’re perfect for parties, movie nights, or as a sweet snack in lunchboxes. For an extra special treat, pair them with a cup of hot apple cider or pumpkin spice latte!

Storage Tips for Maximum Freshness

Store your muddy buddies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Fun Recipe Variations to Try

Switch things up by using dark or milk chocolate chips instead of white chocolate for a richer flavor. You can also add a handful of mini marshmallows or dried cranberries for a chewy, tangy twist. For a nutty crunch, toss in some chopped pecans or almonds!

Time-Saving Tips for Busy Bakers

To speed up the process, use pre-mixed pumpkin pie spice instead of measuring individual spices. If you’re short on time, skip the extra sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice on top—it’s still delicious without it! You can also prepare the powdered sugar mixture ahead of time and store it in a sealed bag.

Common Questions Answered

Can I use a different cereal? Absolutely! Try this recipe with Rice Chex or Corn Chex for a similar texture. What if I don’t have a microwave? No problem—melt the white chocolate and oil in a double boiler on the stovetop instead. Just stir constantly to avoid burning.