Go Back

Cookie Monster Muddy Buddies

A playful and colorful snack made with crunchy cereal, melty chocolate-peanut butter, and bursts of mini cookies perfect for parties and movie nights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 minute
Total Time 16 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 box (12-ounce) Rice Chex cereal For the base of the muddy buddies.
  • 1.5 cups semisweet chocolate chips For melting into the coating.
  • 3/4 cup smooth peanut butter Use traditional, not natural peanut butter.
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter For a creamy texture.
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt To enhance flavor.
  • 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract For added flavor.
  • 2.5 cups Dixie Crystals powdered sugar For coating, divided.
  • 1/2 teaspoon powdered blue food dye To achieve the signature color.
  • 8 oz mini chocolate chip cookies For mixing and topping.
  • 8 oz mini Oreo cookies For mixing and topping.
  • 1 cup milk chocolate morsels For mixing and topping.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Line a rimmed baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper; set aside.
  2. Pour the Rice Chex cereal into the largest mixing bowl you own; set aside.
Coating
  1. Place the semisweet chocolate chips, peanut butter, butter, and salt in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 1 minute. Stir, then continue microwaving in 15-second intervals, stirring until almost melted—about 45 seconds more. Stir until completely smooth. Stir in the vanilla.
  2. Pour the chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the cereal and use a spatula to gently fold until every piece is evenly coated.
  3. Place 2 cups of the powdered sugar in a gallon-size zip-top bag. Add the powdered blue food dye. Seal the bag, then shake until the powdered sugar is evenly colored.
  4. Add the coated cereal to the bag and shake vigorously until the cereal is generously dusted with the blue powdered sugar.
  5. Pour the coated cereal onto the prepared baking sheet and spread into an even layer. Let cool for about 10 minutes.
Finishing Touches
  1. Sprinkle the mini chocolate chip cookies, mini Oreos, and milk chocolate morsels atop the muddy buddies and gently fold if desired.
  2. Transfer the finished mix to an airtight container or a clean zip-top bag.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If humidity is a concern, keep in the coolest, driest spot; freeze for longer storage. Use smooth, stabilized peanut butter for best results. Add extra crunch by including more Rice Chex and powdered sugar.