15-Minute Classic Muddy Buddies
A beloved no-bake snack featuring crispy Rice Chex cereal coated in melted chocolate and peanut butter, then tossed in powdered sugar for an irresistible sweet crunch. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or whenever you need a quick crowd-pleasing treat. The combination of salty peanut butter and rich chocolate creates an addictive flavor that appeals to both kids and adults. This foolproof recipe requires no baking and comes together in under 15 minutes.
Ingredients
- 9 cups Rice Chex CerealCorn Chex or mixed cereals1:1gluten-free
Works equally well
- 1 cup Chocolate ChipsWhite chocolate chips or butterscotch chips1:1flavor-variationadds dairy
Changes flavor significantly
Full guide → - ½ cup Creamy Peanut Butter
- ¼ cup Butter, melted
- 1 ½ teaspoons Vanilla Extract
- 1 ½ cups Powdered Sugar
Instructions
- 1
Add Chex cereal to a large mixing bowl and set aside
- 2
Combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, and melted butter in a microwavable bowl
- 3
Microwave on high for 45 seconds and stir
- 4
Heat again for 30 seconds and stir until chocolate chips are melted and mixture is creamy
- 5
Drizzle chocolate peanut butter mixture over cereal and stir gently until all cereal is coated
- 6
Add half of coated cereal mixture to a gallon ziplock bag with half the powdered sugar, seal and shake until coated
- 7
Repeat with remaining cereal mixture and powdered sugar
- 8
Spread onto parchment-lined baking sheet to cool in a dark, dry place
- 9
Serve in large bowl or individual cups
Tips
Use a gallon ziplock bag for coating to ensure even distribution of powdered sugar without making a mess
Let the chocolate mixture cool slightly before coating cereal to prevent melting and ensure better adhesion
Store in an airtight container to maintain crispiness for up to 5 days
Good to Know
Store in airtight container in cool place for 3-5 days
Can be made 2 days ahead and stored in airtight container
Serve at room temperature in large bowl or individual cups
Common Mistakes
Microwave chocolate mixture in short intervals to avoid burning
Let chocolate mixture cool slightly before coating to prevent cereal from getting soggy
Shake gently in ziplock bag to avoid crushing cereal pieces
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Gluten-Free Swaps
Works equally well
Nut-Free Alternatives
General Alternatives
Changes flavor significantly
Full guide →FAQ
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter works well and adds extra texture. The coating process remains the same, though the mixture may be slightly less smooth.
What if my chocolate mixture seizes up in the microwave?
Add a teaspoon of oil or shortening and stir vigorously. Heat in 15-second intervals, stirring between, until smooth again.
How long do Muddy Buddies stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they stay crispy and fresh for 3-5 days. Avoid refrigeration as it can make them soggy.