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Puppy chow recipe in a blue bowl
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Espresso Muddy Buddies Recipe (Puppy Chow)

A classic sweet-and-crunchy snack mix with a deeper chocolate flavor thanks to a little espresso powder (it won’t taste like coffee - just richer chocolate).
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time5 minutes
Chilling Time30 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Servings: 10
Author: Kellie
Cost: $10

Equipment

  • mixing bowls
  • silicone spatula
  • measuring cups
  • measuring spoons
  • baking sheet

Ingredients

  • 9 cups Rice Chex cereal about 1 standard box
  • 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon espresso powder start with 1 teaspoon; use 2 teaspoon for extra depth
  • 2 cups powdered sugar

Optional add-ins

  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips add after coating/cooling
  • Pinch of fine salt if using unsalted PB, this is great for added depth
  • 1/2 cup crushed pretzels for a salty crunch swap in for 1/2 cup cereal

Instructions

  • Add the Chex to a very large bowl.
  • In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave in 20–30 second bursts, stirring each time, until smooth.
  • Stir in the espresso powder until fully dissolved, then stir in vanilla (and a pinch of salt if using).
  • Pour the chocolate mixture over the cereal. Gently fold with a spatula until evenly coated—try not to crush the cereal.
  • Add coated cereal to a large zip-top bag (or a lidded container). Add powdered sugar, seal, and shake until well coated.
  • Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let cool 20–30 minutes so it sets and doesn’t clump.
  • Break up any clusters and enjoy.

Notes

  • Use Rice Chex, Corn Chex or a combination of both for the best crunchy texture.
  • A traditional creamy peanut butter works best because it melts smoothly and helps the chocolate coating cling to the cereal.
  • Let the coated cereal cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container so the powdered sugar stays dry and fluffy.
  • For extra crunch, stir in pretzels, peanuts or mini candies after the Muddy Buddies have cooled.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Avoid using granulated sugar in place of powdered sugar. It won’t coat the cereal the same way.

Nutrition

Calories: 408kcal | Carbohydrates: 57g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 13mg | Sodium: 255mg | Potassium: 226mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 33g | Vitamin A: 601IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 109mg | Iron: 9mg