Vegan Valentine's Muddy Buddies
A festive twist on classic muddy buddies featuring pink and white chocolate-coated Chex cereal tossed in strawberry cake mix and powdered sugar. The sweet, crunchy treats combine vanilla and berry flavors with colorful Valentine's M&Ms for a perfect party snack or classroom treat. This no-bake recipe takes minutes to make and creates an irresistible coating that's impossible to stop eating.
Ingredients
- 5 ounces white almond bark or white chocolate chipswhite chocolate chips1:1vegetariantree_nuts-free
same texture
- 5 ounces red candy meltspink candy melts1:1color
festive appearance
- 1 teaspoon shortening
- 5 cups Chex cereal, dividedCrispix cereal1:1gluten-free
similar crunch
- ½ cup strawberry cake mix, dividedvanilla cake mix1:1flavor
different taste profile
- ½ cup powdered sugar, divided
- ½ package Valentine's chocolate M&Ms
Instructions
- 1
Divide Chex cereal into two bowls with equal portions
- 2
Melt white almond bark with shortening in microwave-safe dish, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring until smooth
- 3
Pour melted white mixture over first bowl of cereal and mix until evenly coated
- 4
Melt red candy melts in microwave using 30-second intervals, stirring between each heating
- 5
Pour melted red mixture over second bowl of cereal and mix until coated
- 6
Prepare two gallon-size ziplock bags with strawberry cake mix and powdered sugar in each
- 7
Add each bowl of coated cereal to separate bags and shake until completely coated with powder mixture
Tips
Heat chocolate in short 30-second intervals to prevent burning and stir thoroughly between each heating session.
Use fresh ziplock bags to ensure the powder coating adheres properly and creates an even distribution.
Good to Know
Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week
Can be made 2-3 days ahead and stored in sealed containers
Serve at room temperature in bowls or individual bags
Common Mistakes
Heat chocolate slowly to avoid seizing or burning the coating
Shake bags vigorously to ensure even powder distribution and prevent clumping
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Swaps
similar crunch
Nut-Free Alternatives
General Alternatives
festive appearance
different taste profile
FAQ
Can I use different colored candy melts?
Yes, substitute any color candy melts for the red ones to match your party theme or holiday colors.
How long will these keep fresh?
Store in airtight containers at room temperature for up to one week for best texture and flavor.
What if I don't have shortening?
You can substitute coconut oil or omit entirely, though the coating may be slightly thicker without it.