Gluten-Free Muddy Buddies Chex Party Mix Recipe
Introduction
Muddy Buddies, also known as Puppy Chow, are a beloved snack mix that’s sweet, crunchy, and utterly addictive. This gluten-free version uses Rice Chex cereal coated in a rich chocolate and peanut butter mixture, then dusted with powdered sugar for a perfect party treat or anytime snack.

Ingredients
- 9 cups Rice Chex Cereal
- 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
- 1/2 cup Peanut Butter
- 1/4 cup Butter
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1 1/2 cups Powdered Confectioners Sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the Rice Chex Cereal in a large bowl and set aside.
- Step 2: In a 1-quart microwavable bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave uncovered on high for 1 minute, then stir. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is smooth.
- Step 3: Stir in the vanilla extract into the melted chocolate mixture. Pour this over the cereal in the large bowl and gently stir until every piece is evenly coated.
- Step 4: Transfer the coated cereal into a 2-gallon resealable plastic bag. Add the powdered confectioners sugar, seal the bag tightly, and shake until all the cereal is well coated with sugar.
- Step 5: Spread the Muddy Buddies on waxed paper to cool completely before storing.
Tips & Variations
- For a nut-free version, substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a pinch of sea salt to the powdered sugar for a flavor twist.
- Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer taste.
Storage
Store Muddy Buddies in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to one week. To keep the coating crisp, avoid sealing while still warm or damp. If they soften, a quick bake at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes can help refresh the crunch.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free butter or margarine and ensure the chocolate chips are dairy-free to make this recipe suitable for a dairy-free diet.
How long do Muddy Buddies stay fresh?
They stay fresh for about one week if stored properly in an airtight container, but they are usually eaten up much faster because they’re so tasty!
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Gluten-Free Muddy Buddies Chex Party Mix Recipe
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Gluten-Free Muddy Buddies Chex Party Mix is a deliciously sweet and crunchy snack perfect for parties or casual munching. Made with Rice Chex cereal coated in a smooth blend of melted chocolate, peanut butter, and butter, then dusted with powdered sugar, this treat is easy to prepare and wonderfully addictive. The recipe is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities while delivering classic Muddy Buddies flavor.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 9 cups Rice Chex Cereal
- 1 1/2 cups Powdered Confectioners Sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
- 1/2 cup Peanut Butter
- 1/4 cup Butter
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Cereal: Measure 9 cups of Rice Chex Cereal into a large mixing bowl and set aside. This will be the base of your Muddy Buddies.
- Melt the Chocolate Mixture: In a 1-quart microwavable bowl, combine 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1/2 cup peanut butter, and 1/4 cup butter. Microwave uncovered on High for 1 minute, then stir. Continue microwaving in 30-second increments until the mixture is smooth and easy to stir. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to add depth of flavor.
- Coat the Cereal: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Stir gently but thoroughly until all cereal pieces are evenly coated with the chocolate and peanut butter mixture.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Transfer the coated cereal into a 2-gallon resealable plastic bag. Add 1 1/2 cups of powdered confectioners sugar, seal the bag tightly, and shake vigorously until every piece is well coated with the powdered sugar, giving the mix its signature dusty finish.
- Cool and Store: Spread the coated cereal evenly on waxed paper to cool and set. Once cooled, store the Muddy Buddies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and crunch.
Notes
- Use Rice Chex to keep the mix gluten-free; avoid wheat-based cereals.
- For a nut-free version, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
- Ensure the chocolate mixture is fully melted and smooth for even coating.
- Shaking the cereal with powdered sugar in a sealed bag helps avoid mess and ensures even coverage.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week for best freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Microwaving
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Muddy Buddies, Chex Party Mix, Gluten-Free Snack, Chocolate Peanut Butter Snack, Party Mix, Easy Snack Recipe

