Muddy Buddies, also known as Puppy Chow, are one of those nostalgic, crowd-pleasing treats that never go out of style.
Made with crispy cereal coated in melted chocolate, peanut butter, and powdered sugar, they’re the perfect mix of sweet, crunchy, and addictive.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make Muddy Buddies from scratch, how to avoid soggy cereal, and how to store them for maximum freshness.
What Are Muddy Buddies?
Muddy Buddies are a no-bake snack mix traditionally made from Chex cereal.
The cereal pieces are coated in a smooth mixture of melted chocolate, peanut butter, and butter, then tossed in powdered sugar until evenly covered.
The result is a light, sweet snack with a soft chocolate-peanut butter shell and a crisp center.
This recipe takes only a few minutes to pull together and doesn’t require any baking or special equipment.
Why This Muddy Buddy Recipe Works
This version stays true to the classic formula but includes small technique tips that help you get perfect, evenly coated, and non-clumpy Muddy Buddies.
You get:
- Crisp cereal that doesn’t get soggy
- A smooth chocolate-peanut butter coating that spreads evenly
- Just the right amount of powdered sugar for that iconic look and flavor
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 9 cups Chex cereal (rice, corn, or a mix)
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ to 2 cups powdered sugar (adjust based on coating preference)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Base
Pour the Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl. Use the biggest bowl you have; it makes coating the cereal much easier and helps prevent breakage.
2. Melt the Chocolate Mixture
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Heat in 20–30 second intervals, stirring between each round, until the mixture is completely smooth.
Stir in the vanilla extract once the mixture has melted.
3. Coat the Cereal
Pour the warm chocolate mixture over the cereal. Gently fold with a spatula until every piece is coated. Take your time here; this step ensures even coverage.
4. Add the Powdered Sugar
Transfer the chocolate-coated cereal into a large bag or container with a lid. Add the powdered sugar, seal, and shake until the cereal is fully coated.
If you want a thicker sugar coating, add a little more powdered sugar and shake again.
5. Cool and Serve
Spread the Muddy Buddies on a lined baking sheet and let them cool completely. Once cooled, transfer to an airtight container.
Storage Tips
Proper storage keeps this snack fresh and crisp.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
- Avoid leaving them uncovered, as the powdered sugar will absorb moisture and lose its texture.
Variations to Try
Once you master the base recipe, you can experiment with different flavors.
Chocolate Lovers Version: Add mini chocolate chips after coating and cooling.
Holiday Twist: Mix in seasonal M&M candies.
Salted Peanut Version: Add roasted peanuts for extra crunch and saltiness.
Cinnamon Sugar Style: Replace half the powdered sugar with cinnamon sugar for a warm flavor.
Final Thoughts
Muddy Buddies are the kind of treat that brings everyone back for a second handful.
They’re quick, simple, and make the house smell like chocolate and peanut butter without turning on the oven.
Perfect for parties, holidays, gift bags, or whenever you crave something sweet and crunchy.
If you’re looking for a classic recipe that always works, this Muddy Buddy recipe is the one to save, share, and make again and again.