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Get ready for a festive treat with my holiday muddy buddies recipe! Perfect for the holiday season, this snack mix combines the classic flavors of peanut butter and chocolate with a cheerful twist. It’s an ideal choice for a quick dessert or a fun, sweet snack that everyone will love.
I have always been a fan of these, but this holiday version is a game-changer. The addition of holiday M&M’s not only adds a burst of color, but also a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of the peanut butter and chocolate. It’s a hit at every holiday party!
The Chemistry of Muddy Buddies
The melting of chocolate chips with peanut butter and butter creates a smooth, uniform mixture due to the emulsification of fats. When this mixture coats the corn Chex cereal, it solidifies slightly, forming a delicious layer. The powdered sugar then acts as a dry coating, preventing the pieces from sticking together.
What makes holiday muddy buddies festive?
The addition of holiday M&M’s brings festive colors and an extra crunch, making these perfect for holiday celebrations.
Can you substitute ingredients in muddy buddies?
Absolutely! You can use different types of chocolate or nut butters, and even add different mix-ins like pretzels or other festive candies to suit your taste. However, I’d stick to the Corn Chex option, as opposed to Rice Chex or any other Chex cereal.
How do you store holiday muddy buddies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and crunchy for up to a week. For longer storage, place them in the freezer for up to 1 month. They are actually quite yummy while still cold from the freezer. You can also sit them on the counter and allow them to come back up to room temperature before eating.
Are muddy buddies gluten free?
Yes! As long as you use gluten-free corn Chex cereal and ensure other add in ingredients are gluten-free.
What is in muddy buddies?
Corn Chex cereal
The base of our muddy buddies, offering a crunchy, neutral flavor that pairs perfectly with our rich toppings.
Chocolate chips
Provides a sweet, creamy flavor that is the heart of this treat.
Creamy peanut butter
Adds a nutty, rich flavor, complementing the chocolate and providing a creamy texture.
Unsalted butter
Helps in smoothing the chocolate and peanut butter mixture, also adds to this richness.
Vanilla extract
A hint of vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile.
Powdered sugar
Gives a sweet coating, ensuring each piece isn’t sticky and has a delightful sweetness.
Holiday M&M’s
Adds a festive touch with their holiday colors and extra crunch.
Storage tips
Store you muddy buddies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. You can freeze your muddy buddies for up to a month and they are delicious even cold!
Recommended Equipment
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Large bowl with a lid (I like to shake the bowl to distribute the powdered sugar)
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Holiday Muddy Buddies
Ingredients
- 8 cups corn Chex cereal
- 3 cups chocolate chips
- 1 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cup powder sugar
- 1 cup Holiday M&M's
Instructions
- Measure cereal out in a very large bowl (preferably one with an air tight lid)
- In a medium sauce pan over medium low heat, melt chocolate chips, butter and peanut butter while constantly stirring
- Once all the ingredients are melted and smooth, stir in vanilla
- Pour mixture over the measured cereal and stir with a large wooden spoon until all the cereal is coated
- Pour powdered sugar on top of cereal and shut container with lid, shake powder sugar until all the cereal is dusted and no longer sticky. If your bowl does not have a lid you can stir the powder sugar in until all the cereal is coated. Add more sugar as needed.
- Fold in Holiday M&M's to make it extra festive
- Enjoy
Nutrition
Have you tried this recipe?
I’d love to see it! Follow @_mrs.madi_ on Instagram and tag your photos with #mrsmadi.
