Is it Puppy Chow or Muddy Buddies?

The snack is known by both names, "Puppy Chow" and "Muddy Buddies." The name often depends on regional preferences or personal familiarity. Both names refer to the same delicious treat made with Chex cereal coated in a mixture of chocolate, peanut butter, and powdered sugar.

What came first, Puppy Chow or Muddy Buddies?

The original name for this snack is believed to be "Puppy Chow." The term "Muddy Buddies" is actually a registered trademark of General Mills, the company that produces Chex cereal. General Mills popularized the recipe under the name "Muddy Buddies" as part of their marketing. However, the concept of coating cereal in chocolate and peanut butter predates the trademark, and it was commonly referred to as "Puppy Chow" in informal settings.

Why do they call it Puppy Chow?

The name "Puppy Chow" likely comes from the snack's resemblance to dog food, particularly the small, dry kibble type. Of course, despite its name, Puppy Chow is not meant for dogs, especially since chocolate is harmful to canines. The name is more about the playful, informal nature of the snack and its appearance rather than any actual connection to dog food.

What does Puppy Chow taste like?

Puppy Chow has a delightful combination of flavors and textures. It's sweet, with the richness of chocolate and the creamy, nutty flavor of peanut butter. The powdered sugar coating adds a light sweetness and a soft texture that contrasts with the crunchy cereal. Overall, it's a sweet, crunchy, and slightly savory treat that's very moreish, meaning it's hard to stop eating once you start!

Muddy Buddies (aka Puppy Chow)

Ingredients

Scale

9 cups rice chex
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup creamy peanut butter
6 tablespoons salted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups powdered sugar

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Instructions

Measuring the Cereal: Begin by carefully measuring out 9 cups of rice Chex cereal and place them into a large mixing bowl. This will be the base for your Muddy Buddies.
Melting the Chocolate Mixture: On your stovetop, set a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, and 6 tablespoons of salted butter. Stir these ingredients continuously until they meld into a creamy, unified chocolate mixture.
Adding Vanilla Extract: Once the chocolate mixture is evenly melted and smooth, take the saucepan off the heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to infuse the mixture with a rich flavor.
Coating the Cereal: Pour the warm melted chocolate mixture over the dry Chex cereal in the bowl. Gently stir to ensure each piece of cereal is evenly coated with the chocolate mixture.
Coating with Powdered Sugar: Transfer the chocolate-coated cereal into a large resealable plastic bag containing 3 cups of powdered sugar. Seal the bag securely and shake well until each piece of cereal is thoroughly coated in powdered sugar.
Cooling the Muddy Buddies (Optional): For an optional step to help them cool and set, spread the Muddy Buddies out on a baking sheet lined with parchment or wax paper. Allow them to cool to room temperature for the perfect texture.
Enjoying Your Treat: Once your Muddy Buddies have cooled, they are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them up as a delightful snack for any occasion or simply enjoy them as a treat for yourself.

Author: Valerie
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes