Name: Chunky Chex Mix Muddy Buddies Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 12 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 9 cups Rice Chex cereal; 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; ¾ cup creamy peanut butter; ½ cup unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 3 cups powdered sugar; 1 cup mini marshmallows; 1 cup chopped peanut butter cups or M&Ms; ½ cup crushed pretzels

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Introduction

Chunky Chex Mix Muddy Buddies are a delightful twist on the classic snack mix, combining crunchy cereal with rich chocolate, peanut butter, and a touch of sweetness. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for parties, snack time, or whenever you need a salty-sweet fix.

A white bowl is full of a mix of small square and star-shaped cereal pieces in two colors: rich dark brown and light beige. Each piece has a textured surface with a grid pattern, and all are covered with a dusting of white powdered sugar that creates a soft, powdery look. Some powdered sugar is scattered around the base of the bowl on a wooden surface. The background has a white marbled texture with blurred shapes that hint at more bowls and a jar, giving a cozy, warm feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

9 cups Rice Chex cereal
1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
¾ cup creamy peanut butter
½ cup unsalted butter
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
3 cups powdered sugar
1 cup mini marshmallows
1 cup chopped peanut butter cups or M&Ms
½ cup crushed pretzels

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare your workspace by lining a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper. Pour the Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is smooth, about 1 ½ to 2 minutes.
Step 3: Stir in the vanilla extract into the melted mixture.
Step 4: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal. Gently fold the cereal to coat every piece evenly without breaking it.
Step 5: Transfer the coated cereal mixture to a large resealable bag or container. Add the powdered sugar, seal tightly, and shake well until all the cereal is fully coated.
Step 6: Spread the coated mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet and allow it to cool completely so clusters can set.
Step 7: Once cooled, mix in the mini marshmallows, chopped peanut butter cups or M&Ms, and crushed pretzels for extra texture and flavor.
Step 8: Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for later enjoyment.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter and skip peanut butter cups.
Add a pinch of sea salt on top after coating for a sweet and salty contrast.
Use different mix-ins like crushed candy canes during holidays or chocolate-covered raisins for variety.

Storage

Store Muddy Buddies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Keep them away from heat to prevent melting. If they lose their crunch, refresh by spreading on a baking sheet and letting them air out for a few hours.

How to Serve

A large white bowl is filled with a mixture of small square cereal pieces and round nut clusters, all coated heavily with white powdered sugar creating a snowy effect. The cereal pieces have a light brown color beneath the sugar, showing a grid pattern texture, while the nut clusters appear darker brown and glossy under the powdered sugar. The bowl sits on a surface with a white marbled texture, with some of the mixture spilled around it. In the background, there is a large yellow mug and a white glass, both softly blurred, adding a cozy feeling to the scene. A folded mustard yellow cloth is placed near the bowl, adding a warm contrast. The lighting is soft and natural, emphasizing the texture of the powdered sugar and the mix. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different cereals instead of Rice Chex?

Yes, you can substitute with Corn Chex or Wheat Chex for a different texture, but Rice Chex provides the best crunch and coating surface.

How do I prevent the mix from getting soggy?

Make sure the cereal is dry before mixing and store the finished Muddy Buddies in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Avoid humidity and moisture exposure to keep them crisp.