Brownie Batter Puppy Chow {or Muddy Buddies} Recipe
If you’re hunting for the ultimate sweet snack that brings the nostalgia of childhood together with all the decadence of dessert, look no further than Brownie Batter Puppy Chow {or Muddy Buddies}. Imagine crunchy Chex cereal luxuriously coated in a silky blend of chocolate and peanut butter, then tossed in a cloud of brownie mix for that unmistakable fudgy flavor. Add salty pretzels for the perfect textural contrast, and you’ve got an irresistible party treat that’s equal parts playful and impressive. Whether you’re hosting game night, gifting to friends, or just craving something outrageously delicious, this version of Brownie Batter Puppy Chow {or Muddy Buddies} will become your instant go-to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things blissfully simple yet absolutely crave-worthy, using just a handful of pantry staples that each play a starring role. From the chewy crunch of Rice Chex to the deep cocoa punch from brownie mix, every ingredient is chosen to amplify taste and texture.
- Rice Chex cereal: Delivers the perfect crisp bite and makes an ideal canvas for all that brownie batter goodness.
- Semisweet or bittersweet chocolate chips: Bring indulgent chocolate flavor and the right amount of richness.
- Creamy peanut butter: Adds a nutty depth and creamy texture that helps bind everything together.
- Coarse kosher salt: Just a pinch sharpens flavors and balances all the sweetness.
- Dry brownie mix powder: Infuses every morsel with unmissable chocolatey flavor and that signature “brownie batter” vibe—substitute with hot cocoa mix or chocolate cake mix if needed!
- Small pretzels: Jump in at the last moment for a pop of saltiness and irresistible crunch alongside the cereal.
How to Make Brownie Batter Puppy Chow {or Muddy Buddies}
Step 1: Prep Your Cereal
Start by pouring your Rice Chex into a gigantic bowl—the bigger, the better for easy mixing. Chex can be a little fragile, so it helps to give yourself plenty of stirring room. This ensures that every piece will get an even, loving coat of chocolate without too many casualties along the way.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Peanut Butter
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and peanut butter. Microwave in 1-minute bursts, stirring diligently in between, until the mixture is velvety smooth and completely blended. Add a pinch of kosher salt at the end for a little flavor pop. Resist the urge to overheat—the chocolate should be glossy, not seized.
Step 3: Coat the Cereal
Drizzle that dreamy, melted chocolate mixture straight over the cereal. Now grab a flat rubber spatula and gently fold everything together. The goal is to coat every morsel without crushing the Chex, so a soft folding motion works best. Trust me, a spatula is far gentler than a thick spoon here!
Step 4: Shake with Brownie Mix
Time for the magic moment: transfer your chocolate-coated Chex into a large zip-top bag (or do this in a few rounds if needed). Dump in the dry brownie mix, then zip up the bag tightly and shake with conviction! You want every piece cloaked in that fudgy powder. For an alternative, use a large tupperware—spread half the brownie mix first, add the cereal, then top with the rest and shake gently with the lid on.
Step 5: Check Coating & Toss if Needed
Open up the bag or container, and if a few pieces escaped the brownie dust, toss the cereal a couple more times with your hands. Discard any leftover dry mix that’s just sitting at the bottom. Coating should be generous but not powdery-laden.
Step 6: Cool & Add Pretzels
Let your Brownie Batter Puppy Chow {or Muddy Buddies} cool completely—patience is key! When everything’s firm and set, gently fold in the small pretzels. Their crunch and salty snap are the finishing touches that take this treat over the top.
Step 7: Keep Fresh
This treat stays fresh for several days, well-covered at room temperature. The challenge is resisting the urge to sneak handfuls every time you walk by!
How to Serve Brownie Batter Puppy Chow {or Muddy Buddies}
Garnishes
Dress up your Brownie Batter Puppy Chow {or Muddy Buddies} with a flurry of mini chocolate chips, colorful sprinkles, or even a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra festive touch. Tiny marshmallows or a handful of chopped roasted nuts can add personality and appeal for a special occasion.
Side Dishes
Pair this irresistibly chocolatey snack with bowls of fresh berries, sliced apple, or a creamy vanilla milkshake. Crisp fruits offer a refreshing contrast, while the milkshake option is pure dessert heaven for anyone needing a nostalgic treat with their Puppy Chow fix.
Creative Ways to Present
Spoon your Brownie Batter Puppy Chow {or Muddy Buddies} into mason jars for adorable gifts, heap it in a big party bowl lined with parchment for a crowd, or divide it into individual snack bags for picnics or road trips. For a holiday, choose themed wrappers or colored sprinkles to match the occasion!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Brownie Batter Puppy Chow {or Muddy Buddies} in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Just make sure it’s sealed well, so you keep out any moisture that could make the cereal soggy or the brownie mix clumpy.
Freezing
Freezing is totally possible if you’re prepping ahead—just transfer your cooled Puppy Chow into freezer bags, press out excess air, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it come to room temperature while still in the bag to help control any condensation.
Reheating
Brownie Batter Puppy Chow {or Muddy Buddies} is honestly best at room temp, but if it feels a little chilly straight from the freezer, set it out for 20-30 minutes. There’s no need (or benefit) to microwaving—it tastes perfect as is, cool and chocolatey!
FAQs
Can I use a different cereal if I don’t have Rice Chex?
Absolutely! Corn Chex, wheat Chex, or even Crispix will work in place of Rice Chex. Just keep the total volume the same, and you’ll still get that iconic, crunchy texture in your Brownie Batter Puppy Chow {or Muddy Buddies}.
What can I substitute for the dry brownie mix?
If you don’t have brownie mix, don’t worry! Hot cocoa mix, chocolate cake mix, or a mix of powdered sugar and unsweetened cocoa will still give a delicious chocolatey finish—with slight flavor variations that are all tasty in their own right.
Is there a peanut-free option?
Yes! Use sunflower seed butter, almond butter, or any creamy nut/seed spread you love. The texture might be slightly different, but the end result will be just as delicious and safe for those with peanut allergies.
How do I keep the Chex from getting crushed?
Gentle folding is key—use a flat rubber spatula and a wide bowl, and avoid pressing down too hard. When tossing with the brownie mix, shake the bag or container gently, or use your hands to toss and ensure even coating without breaking the cereal.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Most plain Rice Chex cereals are gluten-free, but be sure to check the label. Also, confirm your brownie mix and pretzels are gluten-free (these are widely available now), and you’ll have a safe treat for any gluten-sensitive crowd.
Final Thoughts
You owe it to yourself (and your hungry snack-loving friends) to try this ridiculously delicious Brownie Batter Puppy Chow {or Muddy Buddies}. It’s easy, endlessly lurable, and guaranteed to bring smiles wherever it goes. So gather your ingredients, share a bowl, and get ready for a new snack obsession!
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Brownie Batter Puppy Chow {or Muddy Buddies} Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: About 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Brownie Batter Puppy Chow, also known as Muddy Buddies, is a delicious and addictive snack that combines the flavors of brownies, chocolate, and peanut butter in a crunchy and sweet treat.
Ingredients
Rice Chex Cereal:
9 cups
Semisweet or Bittersweet Chocolate Chips:
2 cups
Creamy Peanut Butter:
1/2 cup
Coarse Kosher Salt:
Pinch
Dry Brownie Mix Powder:
1 1/2 cups
Small Pretzels:
4 cups
Instructions
- Pour the Cereal: Transfer the cereal into a large bowl.
- Melt Chocolate and Peanut Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and peanut butter in 1-minute intervals, stirring until smooth. Add salt.
- Coat Cereal: Drizzle the chocolate mixture over the cereal and fold gently until evenly coated.
- Add Dry Mix: Place dry brownie mix in a bag, add the chocolate-coated cereal, and shake until coated.
- Alternate Coating Method: Spread half of the dry mix in a container, add cereal, sprinkle remaining mix, and shake to coat.
- Add Pretzels: Let the mixture cool, then add pretzels.
- Storage: Store well-covered at room temperature for several days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Microwave, Mixing, Shaking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1 cup)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 440mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Brownie Batter Puppy Chow, Muddy Buddies, Snack Recipe, Chocolate Peanut Butter Snack
