Muddy Buddies

If you’re looking for a snack that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, then Muddy Buddies is the perfect recipe for you! This delightful treat combines the crunch of Rice Chex cereal with the creamy sweetness of white chocolate and peanut butter, all while adding a little flair with colorful additions like Lucky Charms marshmallows and green M&Ms. Whether you’re preparing for a movie night, a party, or just a cozy evening at home, this treat is sure to please everyone.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Muddy Buddies are incredibly versatile and can be customized to fit any occasion. The combination of textures—from the crunch of the cereal to the chewiness of the marshmallows—creates a delightful experience with every bite. Plus, they’re simple to make and require minimal ingredients, making them perfect for both baking novices and seasoned pros. The best part? You can store them for days, so you can enjoy them whenever you like!

What to Buy

To make these scrumptious Muddy Buddies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 9 cups Rice Chex cereal
• 1 cup white chocolate chips (or almond bark)
• 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 – 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 cup Lucky Charms marshmallows
• 1 cup small white chocolate covered pretzels
• 1/2 cup green M&Ms

Appliances & Accessories

You’ll need a few items to make the process smoother:

• Large mixing bowl – For combining all your ingredients.
• Microwave-safe bowl – To melt the chocolate mixture.
• Spatula – For mixing and folding.
• Baking sheet – To spread out your Muddy Buddies for cooling.
• Parchment paper – To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup.

Muddy Buddies: Step-by-Step Guide

Making Muddy Buddies is a fun and straightforward process. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and measure them out. This ensures you have everything ready to go, making the process smoother.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture

In a microwave-safe bowl, add the white chocolate chips (or almond bark), peanut butter, and butter. Heat them in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until fully melted and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract once melted.

Step 3: Combine with Cereal

In a large mixing bowl, add the Rice Chex cereal. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal and gently fold until all the cereal pieces are coated evenly.

Step 4: Add the Extras

Once the cereal is coated, gently fold in the Lucky Charms marshmallows and white chocolate covered pretzels. This adds a delightful twist and extra flavor to your Muddy Buddies.

Step 5: Coat with Powdered Sugar

Transfer the coated cereal mixture into a large zip-top bag. Add the powdered sugar, seal the bag, and shake until all the cereal is evenly coated. You can adjust the amount of powdered sugar based on your sweetness preference.

Step 6: Cool and Add M&Ms

Spread the Muddy Buddies onto a lined baking sheet to cool. Once cooled, sprinkle the green M&Ms over the top for a pop of color and extra sweetness.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the Muddy Buddies have cooled completely, serve them in a bowl or package them into cute bags for sharing, and enjoy your delightful creation!

Texture-Safe Substitutions

If you’re looking to switch things up a bit, consider these substitutions:

• Cereal: Use Corn Chex or Crispix for a different crunch.
• Chocolate: Dark chocolate or milk chocolate can be used if you prefer a richer taste.
• Nut Butter: Almond butter or sunflower seed butter can be a great alternative for those with nut allergies.
• Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows can replace Lucky Charms marshmallows for a more traditional approach.

Little Things that Matter

Here are some tips to ensure your Muddy Buddies turn out perfectly:

• Make sure to coat the cereal evenly with the chocolate mixture to avoid clumps.
• Adjust the amount of powdered sugar to your taste; you can always add more if you like it sweeter.
• Let the Muddy Buddies cool completely before serving; this helps them stay crunchy.
• Storing them in an airtight container will keep them fresh for longer.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

After making your Muddy Buddies, allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds, but be mindful not to overheat them.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my chocolate mixture is too thick?

If your chocolate mixture seems too thick, try adding a bit more butter or peanut butter to loosen it up. You can also microwave it for a few more seconds to help it melt further.

How can I prevent my Muddy Buddies from clumping together?

Make sure to coat the cereal thoroughly and evenly with the chocolate mixture. Adding powdered sugar while the mixture is still warm can also help keep them separate.

Can I freeze Muddy Buddies?

Yes, you can freeze Muddy Buddies. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When you want to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature.

What other mix-ins can I use?

Feel free to get creative! You can add nuts, different types of candies, or even popcorn for added crunch. The possibilities are endless!

Desserts to Finish

After enjoying your Muddy Buddies, why not try some other sweet treats? Here are a few suggestions:

• Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies – A delicious blend of chocolate and peanut butter in cookie form!
• Takis Seasoned Party Pretzels – A spicy twist on classic pretzels that makes for a great snack!

The Last Word

Muddy Buddies are one of those nostalgic treats that bring comfort and joy in every bite. With their crunchy texture, sweet flavor, and colorful mix-ins, they offer a unique twist on traditional snacks. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or just a sweet treat for yourself, Muddy Buddies are a delightful creation that everyone will love. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this delicious treat!