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Chunky Chex Mix Muddy Buddies Recipe

4.7 from 83 reviews

Chunky Chex Mix Muddy Buddies is a delightful sweet and salty snack mix featuring Rice Chex cereal coated in a rich blend of melted chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and butter, then dusted with powdered sugar. Enhanced with mini marshmallows, chopped peanut butter cups or M&Ms, and crushed pretzels, this treat offers a perfect crunch and a mix of textures. Ready in just 12 minutes, it’s an ideal snack for parties, holiday gatherings, or anytime you crave a satisfying, indulgent bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Mix

  • 9 cups Rice Chex cereal

Chocolate Coating

  • 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Coating

  • 3 cups powdered sugar

Optional Mix-ins

  • 1 cup mini marshmallows
  • 1 cup chopped peanut butter cups or M&Ms
  • ½ cup crushed pretzels

Instructions

  1. Prepare workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking. Pour 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl, ready to be coated.
  2. Melt chocolate mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, ¾ cup creamy peanut butter, and ½ cup unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted, which should take about 1 ½ to 2 minutes.
  3. Add vanilla extract: Stir 1 tablespoon vanilla extract into the melted chocolate mixture to enhance flavor.
  4. Coat cereal: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the Chex cereal. Gently fold the mixture to ensure every piece is evenly coated without breaking the cereal.
  5. Coat with powdered sugar: Transfer the coated cereal to a large Ziploc bag or sealed container. Add 3 cups powdered sugar, seal securely, and shake vigorously until the cereal is completely coated with the powdered sugar.
  6. Set clusters: Spread the coated mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer and let it cool completely. This allows the clusters to set and the coating to harden.
  7. Add mix-ins: Once cooled, gently stir in 1 cup mini marshmallows, 1 cup chopped peanut butter cups or M&Ms, and ½ cup crushed pretzels for added texture and flavor.
  8. Serve or store: Serve immediately or store the muddy buddies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crispness.

Notes

  • Be careful when folding the cereal with the chocolate mixture to avoid breaking the Chex pieces.
  • Cooling the mix thoroughly before adding marshmallows and candy ensures they don’t melt or become soggy.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
  • For a nut-free version, omit peanut butter and peanut butter cups, substituting with allergy-friendly spreads and candies.
  • Use parchment paper on the baking sheet for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.

Keywords: Muddy Buddies, Chex Mix, Peanut Butter Snack, Party Snack, Sweet and Salty, No-Bake Snack