Also known as Puppy Chow, Muddy Buddies Chex Mix is a crunchy, chocolatey, peanut buttery snack that’s downright irresistible. Coated in a sweet powdered sugar shell, it’s the ultimate no-bake treat for parties, holidays, or a cozy movie night at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This snack mix is dangerously easy to make, using just a handful of pantry ingredients and taking only minutes to prepare. It’s gluten-free (when using Rice or Corn Chex), kid-friendly, and endlessly adaptable with fun mix-ins like candy or sprinkles. It’s sweet, crunchy, and completely addictive.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 9 cups Chex cereal (Rice, Corn, or a mix)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
Directions
- Measure the cereal:
- Add Chex cereal to a large mixing bowl and set aside.
- Melt chocolate mixture:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until smooth.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Coat the cereal:
- Pour the melted mixture over the cereal.
- Gently stir with a spatula until all pieces are coated.
- Powder it up:
- Transfer the chocolate-coated cereal to a large resealable plastic bag.
- Add powdered sugar, seal, and shake until evenly coated.
- Cool and serve:
- Spread the mix on a baking sheet to cool and harden.
- Store in an airtight container.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: About 18 (½ cup per serving)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
- Holiday Version: Mix in colored candies, peppermint chips, or festive sprinkles.
- Extra Crunch: Add pretzels or roasted nuts after coating with sugar.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Store in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.
- Reheating: Not needed—best served room temp or chilled.
FAQs
Is this the same as Puppy Chow?
Yes, “Muddy Buddies” and “Puppy Chow” are just different names for the same classic snack.
Can I use white chocolate?
Absolutely! White chocolate and almond butter make a delicious variation.
What if I don’t have a big zip bag?
Use a large bowl with a lid or mix gently by hand with a spatula and sifter for the sugar.
Is this snack gluten-free?
It is if you use certified gluten-free Chex cereal and check your chocolate and peanut butter.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes, use vegan chocolate chips, plant-based butter, and a nut or seed butter.
What else can I add?
Mini marshmallows, crushed cookies, sprinkles, or chopped candies all work great.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! It stores well and is a great make-ahead treat for parties.
Why is my mix clumpy?
That’s normal—just break apart any large clusters once it cools.
Can I halve or double this recipe?
Yes, just adjust your bowl and bag sizes to accommodate the amount.
Can I ship this to friends?
Yes, just package it in a sealed container or bag, and keep it dry and cool.
Conclusion
Muddy Buddies Chex Mix is the ultimate sweet and salty snack with unbeatable crunch and flavor. Whether you’re prepping for a party, filling holiday tins, or just craving something chocolatey and fun, this easy recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.
Description
These Cake Mix Toffee Bars are rich, chewy dessert bars made with yellow cake mix, butter, sweetened condensed milk, and loads of toffee bits. They come together fast with just a few ingredients, making them the perfect treat for parties, bake sales, or a sweet weeknight dessert.
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
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Make the crust:
In a medium bowl, mix together the cake mix, melted butter, and egg until a thick dough forms. Press 2/3 of the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. -
Mix the filling:
In another bowl, stir together the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and toffee bits. Add chocolate chips if using. -
Assemble the bars:
Pour the toffee filling over the crust and spread evenly. Crumble the remaining cake mix dough over the top. -
Bake for 2530 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the center is set. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Notes
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Let them cool fully before slicing to help them firm up and hold their shape.
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Swap yellow cake mix for chocolate, spice, or butter pecan for different flavor twists.
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Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
