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Muddy Buddies

Healthy Muddy Buddies

James & Jessy
Enjoy a *healthier* twist on Muddy Buddies! Crunchy whole grain cereal, rich dark chocolate, natural peanut butter & less sugar. Guilt-ish free, addictive & easy no-bake treat!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Cooling Time 20 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 16 cups

Equipment

  • Large Bowl
  • Microwave-Safe Bowl
  • Spatula or Spoon
  • Gallon-Size Zip-Top Bag
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper

Ingredients
  

Muddy Buddies

  • 9 cups Rice Chex Cereal or Corn Chex, whole grain if possible
  • 0.5 cup Dark Chocolate Chips at least 70% cacao
  • 0.25 cup Natural Peanut Butter creamy or crunchy, no added sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Coconut Oil unrefined, or butter
  • 2 tablespoons Honey or maple syrup, adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Coating

  • 0.25 cup Powdered Sugar plus more if needed
  • 2 tablespoons Unsweetened Cocoa Powder optional
  • 1 pinch Salt to balance sweetness

Instructions
 

  • Pour 9 cups Rice Chex cereal into a very large bowl.
  • In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 0.5 cup dark chocolate chips, 0.25 cup natural peanut butter, and 2 tablespoons coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until melted and smooth (1-2 mins).
  • Stir in 2 tablespoons honey and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract into the melted chocolate mixture. Mix well.
  • Pour melted chocolate mixture over cereal in large bowl.
  • Gently toss cereal with chocolate mixture until evenly coated. Work quickly.
  • In a gallon zip-top bag, combine 0.25 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Seal bag and shake to combine.
  • Pour chocolate-coated cereal into bag with sugar mixture. Seal and shake vigorously until cereal is evenly coated.
  • Spread coated Muddy Buddies in a single layer on parchment-lined baking sheet. Cool and set for 15-20 mins. Break apart clumps & enjoy!

Notes

Pro Tips:
- Good Dark Chocolate is Key
- Natural Peanut Butter is Key
- Adjust Sweetness
- Customize with Spices
- Let Them Set Properly
Serving Suggestions:
- Party Snack
- Movie Night Treat
- Lunchbox Treat (moderation)
- After-School Snack (treat)
- Edible Gift
Make Ahead & Storage:
- Make ahead: 3-4 days
- Store leftovers: Airtight, room temp, up to 1 week (best 3-4 days)
- Freezing: Not recommended
FAQs:
Q1: Milk chocolate? Less healthy, dark chocolate is recommended.
Q2: Different nut butter? Almond, cashew, sunflower seed butter ok.
Q3: Vegan? Use maple syrup and dairy-free chocolate chips.
Q4: Sticky Buddies? Cool longer, use less wet mixture, spread to cool.
Keyword healthy muddy buddies, healthy snack, muddy buddies, no bake dessert, puppy chow, reindeer chow