Imagine the sweet crunch of powdered sugar, the smooth richness of melted chocolate, and the irresistible snap of crispy cereal all in one addictive bite. That’s exactly what you get with Chunky Chex Mix Muddy Buddies, the ultimate snack that brings back childhood memories while satisfying adult cravings. Whether you’re whipping up a party treat or need a quick no-bake dessert fix, this recipe never fails to delight.

This version of the classic Muddy Buddies is extra chunky, meaning more chocolate coating, more texture, and more indulgence. It’s the kind of snack you can’t stop reaching for, perfect for holidays, movie nights, or packaging as edible gifts. Best of all, it comes together in minutes and doesn’t require an oven.
Why You’ll Love This Chunky Chex Mix Muddy Buddies
- No-Bake Wonder: This dessert requires zero baking—just melt, mix, and shake.
- Easy to Customize: Toss in peanut butter, white chocolate, or even sprinkles.
- Crowd Favorite: Loved by both kids and adults, and perfect for sharing.
- Portable: Great for snack bags, party bowls, or lunchbox treats.
What Kind of Chocolate Works Best?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips strike the perfect balance of sweetness and richness, but dark chocolate adds a more intense flavor, while milk chocolate keeps it smooth and sweet. For a layered taste, try mixing semi-sweet and milk chocolate together. White chocolate can also be used for a completely different twist, especially when paired with crushed peppermint or sprinkles during the holidays.
Ingredients for the Chunky Chex Mix Muddy Buddies
To make this addictive snack mix truly pop, the choice of each ingredient matters. Here’s what you’ll need and why:
- Chex Cereal: The backbone of the recipe, providing that light and crispy crunch.
- Chocolate Chips: Melted into silky goodness to coat each piece thoroughly.
- Peanut Butter: Adds creaminess and that nutty depth we love.
- Butter: Helps create a smooth, pourable chocolate-peanut butter coating.
- Vanilla Extract: Brings warmth and rounds out the sweetness.
- Powdered Sugar: Coats the chocolate-covered cereal for a snowy, sweet finish.
How To Make the Chunky Chex Mix Muddy Buddies
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate Mixture
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 2: Coat the Cereal
Pour Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the melted mixture over the cereal, gently folding until every piece is generously coated.
Step 3: Add the Sugar Shake
Transfer the chocolate-coated cereal into a large zip-top bag or container with a lid. Add powdered sugar, seal, and shake until each bite is evenly dusted.
Step 4: Let it Set and Serve
Spread the mix onto a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool and set. Once dry, transfer to a serving bowl or airtight container for storage.

How to Serve and Store These Muddy Buddies
This recipe feeds about 10 people as a snack or party treat. For serving, pile them high in a festive bowl or package them in cellophane bags with ribbons for gifting. You can also mix in mini marshmallows or pretzel pieces for a fun variation.
To store, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to two weeks, or freeze in zip-top bags for up to 2 months.
What to Serve With Chunky Chex Mix Muddy Buddies
1. Hot Cocoa or Mocha
The rich chocolatey snack pairs perfectly with warm drinks.
2. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
Use as a topping or mix-in for extra crunch.
3. Fruit Skewers
Balance the sweetness with fresh strawberries, grapes, and apple slices.
4. Cheese Board
Include this as a fun sweet element among savory bites.
5. Spiced Nuts
Complement the sweetness with something salty and spiced.
6. Mini Cupcakes
Decorate cupcakes with a sprinkle of Muddy Buddies for flair.
7. Yogurt Parfaits
Layer them in Greek yogurt with berries for a breakfast twist.
Want More Snack Mix Ideas?
If you love these Chunky Chex Mix Muddy Buddies, here are more flavorful treats to try next:
- Garlic Ritz Snacks for a savory crunch with bold flavor.
- Spicy Sailor’s Dip if you want something creamy and bold.
- Jalapeno Popper Dip to pair with chips and fresh veggies.
- No-Bake Preacher Cookies for another easy, nostalgic no-bake dessert.
- Whipped Shortbread Cookies for buttery, melt-in-your-mouth bites.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest snack board so you can find it again when the craving hits.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go heavy on the peanut butter or try a new variation with Nutella or butterscotch?
I’d love to hear your twists. Questions and sharing encouraged!
Explore beautifully curated treats on Nora Nosh Recipes Pinterest and discover even more snackable delights!
Print
Chunky Chex Mix Muddy Buddies
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Get ready to fall in love with this ultra-chocolatey, addictively sweet snack mix that’s perfect for any occasion. These Chunky Chex Mix Muddy Buddies are a no-bake dream come true—loaded with crispy Chex cereal, melted chocolate, peanut butter, and a blizzard of powdered sugar. This easy recipe is perfect for holiday gifting, potlucks, and last-minute party prep. If you’re looking for quick breakfast ideas, easy dessert recipes, no-bake food ideas, or just a new snack to share, this one checks all the boxes. Ideal for kids and adults alike, it’s crunchy, creamy, and impossible to resist.
Ingredients
9 cups Chex cereal
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until fully melted and smooth.
2. Stir in vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Place Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl.
4. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal, folding gently until all pieces are coated.
5. Transfer to a large zip-top bag or container with a lid, add powdered sugar, and shake until well-coated.
6. Spread onto a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool and set before serving.
Notes
Use a mix of semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips for layered flavor.
To make it nut-free, substitute sunflower butter for peanut butter.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
