Muddy Buddies Recipe Without Peanut Butter Made Easy

Craving the nostalgic, crunchy, and chocolaty goodness of muddy buddies but need to skip the peanut butter? You’re in the right place!

Muddy buddies, also known as puppy chow, are a delicious snack made from coated cereal that’s perfect for parties, movie nights, or simply a sweet treat anytime. This muddy buddies recipe without peanut butter swaps out the classic ingredient for a creamy alternative that maintains all the flavor and texture without compromising on taste.

Whether you have allergies, preferences, or just want to try something new, this recipe is easy, quick, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

In this post, I’ll walk you through the ingredients, equipment, and step-by-step instructions to create your very own batch of this peanut-free delight. Plus, I’ll share tips and variations to customize your treat and ideas for serving and storing.

Let’s get started on making this irresistible snack everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This muddy buddies recipe is perfect for those avoiding peanuts but still wanting that rich, sweet, and crunchy experience. By substituting peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or almond butter, you get a creamy base for the chocolate coating that is just as satisfying.

It’s a fantastic alternative for allergy-friendly gatherings or anyone looking for a new twist on a classic snack.

Besides being allergen-friendly, this recipe is incredibly simple and quick to put together—just a few minutes on the stove and then some mixing. The resulting treat is perfectly crunchy, sweet, and chocolaty with a dusting of powdered sugar that makes it irresistible.

Plus, it stores well, so you can make it ahead of time for parties or snack prep.

Ingredients

• 9 cups Rice Chex cereal (or your favorite gluten-free cereal)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup sunflower seed butter (or almond butter)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• Optional: pinch of salt to balance sweetness

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium saucepan
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large resealable plastic bag or a large container with a lid
• Baking sheet or large tray (optional for cooling)

Instructions

1. Measure your cereal: Pour 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl and set aside. Be gentle to avoid crushing the cereal pieces.
2. Melt the chocolate mixture: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, sunflower seed butter, and unsalted butter. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula until everything is melted and smooth.
3. Add vanilla extract: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. If you’re using salt, add a pinch now to balance the sweetness.
4. Coat the cereal: Immediately pour the warm chocolate mixture over the cereal in the large bowl. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the mixture to coat all the cereal pieces evenly. Work quickly to cover as much as possible before the chocolate sets.
5. Add powdered sugar: Transfer the coated cereal into a large resealable plastic bag or container. Add the 2 cups of powdered sugar, seal the bag or container, and shake vigorously until all the pieces are well coated and look dusty white.
6. Cool and set: Spread the coated cereal out on a baking sheet or tray to cool and harden for about 30 minutes. This step helps the coating set and prevents clumping.
7. Store and enjoy: Once cooled, store the muddy buddies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week—or longer if refrigerated. Serve as a snack, dessert topping, or pack for on-the-go munching.

Tips & Variations

Tip: Use gluten-free Rice Chex to keep this recipe gluten-free and allergy-friendly. For a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter is best, but almond butter can add a nice flavor twist if allergies aren’t a concern.

Variation: Try swapping semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate or dark chocolate for a different taste profile. You can also add festive sprinkles or mini M&Ms for colorful fun.

Pro tip: If you want your muddy buddies extra crispy, toast the cereal lightly in the oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes before coating.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Muddy buddies are incredibly versatile. Serve them in small bowls at a party for easy snacking or package them in clear cellophane bags tied with a ribbon as homemade gifts.

They also make a fun addition to lunchboxes or a delightful topping for ice cream or yogurt parfaits.

For an indulgent dessert, layer muddy buddies with whipped cream and fresh berries in a clear glass for a crunchy and creamy parfait. Or simply enjoy them straight from the bowl with a tall glass of milk—classic and satisfying!

Conclusion

This muddy buddies recipe without peanut butter is a fantastic alternative for anyone seeking a peanut-free, allergy-friendly snack that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or fun. The combination of chocolate, creamy sunflower seed butter, and crunchy cereal coated in powdered sugar creates the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and crunchy that everyone loves.

Easy to make and endlessly customizable, this recipe is ideal for family gatherings, holiday treats, or everyday snacking. Give it a try and see how quickly it disappears!

For more delicious snack ideas, check out our Easy Chocolate Chip Cookies, Homemade Granola Bars, and Classic Banana Bread recipes. Happy snacking!

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