Chunky Muddy Buddies

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If you’ve ever had classic Muddy Buddies (or Puppy Chow), you already know they’re addictive. But this chunky version? It’s a whole new level. Think oversized clusters packed with chocolate, peanut butter, and crunch—perfectly messy, perfectly sweet, and totally irresistible. This recipe adds serious texture by doubling down on the mix-ins and coating, creating the ultimate snacking treat.

Whether you’re making a batch for a party, a cozy movie night, or just to stash in the pantry for when that sweet tooth hits, Chunky Muddy Buddies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They’re no-bake, easy to whip up in minutes, and a fun twist on the nostalgic treat we all grew up with.

Why You’ll Love This Chunky Muddy Buddies Recipe

These aren’t your average Muddy Buddies. The generous coating of melted chocolate and peanut butter means every piece is thick and rich, and the added mix-ins give this snack extra body. We’re talking crunchy cereal, mini marshmallows, pretzels, and extra chocolate chips folded right in. It’s chaos—in the best way.

Perfect for gifting, travel snacks, or just standing over the counter munching with a spoon (we’ve all been there), this recipe is a reminder that indulgence is sometimes exactly what we need.

Can I Use Different Cereals for Muddy Buddies?

Absolutely. The beauty of this recipe is how adaptable it is. While rice or corn Chex cereal is the classic go-to, feel free to sub in Crispix, a gluten-free option, or even a granola-like base if you’re feeling wild. The goal is structure and crunch—something that holds up to a gooey coating without turning soggy. Just steer clear of delicate flakes that can break down too quickly under all that delicious chocolate-peanut butter goodness.

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Ingredients for the Chunky Muddy Buddies

This recipe is built around pantry staples, which makes it incredibly easy to throw together. The ingredient list leans into bold flavors and satisfying textures that cling together for those signature chunky clusters.

• Chex cereal
  This is the crunchy foundation. Rice or corn Chex both work great to soak up the chocolate-peanut butter mixture without getting soggy.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips
  For deep, melty chocolate flavor. You can use dark or milk chocolate if preferred, but semi-sweet gives the best balance.
• Creamy peanut butter
  It adds richness and acts as a glue for the chocolate coating. Make sure it’s not the natural oily type.
• Butter
  A little goes a long way to keep the mixture smooth and luscious when melted.
• Powdered sugar
  The classic final touch—coats everything and locks in the texture. It also adds a snowy look and extra sweetness.
• Mini marshmallows
  For that soft contrast to all the crunch, plus they help create those chunky bites.
• Mini pretzels (broken into pieces)
  A salty crunch that balances the sweet and adds even more texture.
• Peanut butter chips or white chocolate chips
  Optional, but they make the clusters even more decadent.

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How To Make the Chunky Muddy Buddies

Step 1: Prep the Cereal Base

Pour your Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl. You’ll need enough space to stir everything together later, so go big with your bowl.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Peanut Butter

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted.

Step 3: Coat the Cereal

Pour the warm chocolate mixture over the cereal. Gently fold with a spatula until every piece is completely coated. Then toss in mini marshmallows, pretzels, and extra chips if using.

Step 4: Add the Powdered Sugar

Transfer the coated mixture into a large zip-top bag or container with a lid. Add powdered sugar and shake until everything is evenly coated. This is what gives the snack its classic dusty finish.

Step 5: Let it Set

Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Let it cool and set for about 30 minutes before breaking into big, chunky clusters.

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How to Store and Serve Chunky Muddy Buddies

This treat feeds about 8 to 10 people, though it disappears fast if left unsupervised! Once cooled, store the Chunky Muddy Buddies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’re in a warmer climate, storing it in the fridge helps maintain the chunkiness without melting.

Serve it in snack bowls for parties, pack into jars for cute gifts, or stash in the pantry for an on-the-go sweet fix. It also freezes surprisingly well—just bring it back to room temp before serving.

What to Serve With Chunky Muddy Buddies?

Hot Chocolate or Coffee

Rich and creamy drinks like hot cocoa or a bold espresso make the perfect match.

Ice Cream Sundaes

Crumble the Muddy Buddies over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an instant dessert upgrade.

Fruit Skewers

Balance the sweet with fresh berries, bananas, or pineapple chunks.

Game Day Snack Boards

Add Chunky Muddy Buddies to your lineup of chips, dips, and wings for an unexpected sweet bite.

Movie Night Treats

Pair with buttery popcorn and sour gummies for the ultimate mix.

Yogurt Parfaits

For breakfast or a lighter dessert, layer some in a yogurt cup with fruit and granola.

Milkshakes

Toss a handful into a blender with ice cream and milk for a super indulgent shake.

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Want More Snack Ideas With a Crunch?

If you loved these Chunky Muddy Buddies, here are a few other creative snack recipes you’ll want to try next:

• Canned Biscuit Sugar Donuts for an easy fried treat.
• Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies that pack major crunch and nostalgia.
• No-Bake Banana Pudding Cheesecake for creamy, dreamy spoonfuls.
• Dr. Pepper Brownies if you’re in the mood for something wildly chocolatey.
• Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread for a breakfast-meets-dessert moment.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add extra pretzels or skip the marshmallows? Maybe you even snuck in M&M’s? I love hearing your personal twists.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks, fun snacks, and seasonal sweets on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for snacking happy!

Conclusion

Chunky Muddy Buddies are everything you love about the original, just bigger, bolder, and even more fun to eat. Whether you go classic or add your own twist, there’s no wrong way to enjoy them. A little messy, a lot delicious—this recipe deserves a spot in your snack rotation.

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