Trail Mix Muddy Buddies
Every time I make Trail Mix Muddy Buddies, I’m reminded of the fun-filled days spent with friends around the campfire. There’s something magical about those moments when laughter and stories blend seamlessly with the delicious flavors of sweet and salty treats. With a crunchy texture and a hint of chocolate, these Muddy Buddies are the perfect snack to share, whether you’re on a road trip, hosting a movie night, or just craving something special. I love how easy they are to whip up, and how quickly they disappear once my family gets a taste! It’s a delightful partnership of Chex cereal, luscious milk chocolate, and creamy peanut butter that creates a snack that’s both satisfying and addictive.
With every bite of Trail Mix Muddy Buddies, you’ll experience a wonderful mix of flavors that dance on your palate. They’re not just a treat; they carry memories and joy, making them a staple in our house. As we sit together, enjoying this scrumptious snack, it brings us closer, fostering connection and laughter. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to make some memories with this mouthwatering recipe!
Recipe Snapshot
30 mins
15 mins
15 mins
Medium
220 kcal
4 g
Gluten-Free
10 g
Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet
Why This Trail Mix Muddy Buddies Hits Different
Perfect for Any Occasion
What I love most about Trail Mix Muddy Buddies is their versatility. They are not just a snack; they can be enjoyed during a cozy movie night, a picnic in the park, or even as a sweet addition to your next gathering. Their ability to cater to various occasions makes them a favorite!
Simple Yet Delicious
You don’t need to be a master chef to whip these up! The simplicity of the recipe is part of its charm. Just a handful of ingredients come together in a matter of minutes, making it an ideal choice for those impromptu cravings.
Crowd-Pleaser
Another reason I adore these Muddy Buddies is how much everyone loves them. Whether you’re serving them to friends or family, they’re always a hit! Their delightful combination of flavors and textures satisfies both kids and adults alike.
Customizable for Every Taste
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can easily tailor it to suit your taste buds. Want to add a little spice? Toss in some craisins or extra nuts. Prefer a sweeter treat? Swap out the M&Ms for Reese’s Pieces. The possibilities are endless!
Great for Gifting
These Muddy Buddies are perfect for gifting too. Pack them in a cute jar or zip bag, and you’ve got a thoughtful homemade gift that friends and family will appreciate. They are excellent for holidays or just to brighten someone’s day!
Easy Storage
Finally, their shelf life is impressive. These treats can be stored for up to five days in an airtight container, making them a great option to prep ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
Ingredients for Trail Mix Muddy Buddies

The ingredients for Trail Mix Muddy Buddies come together to create a delicious and irresistible snack. The base ingredient, Chex cereal, provides a delightful crunch, while the combination of milk chocolate chips and creamy peanut butter creates a rich, sweet coating. The addition of peanuts, raisins, and M&Ms introduces a variety of textures and flavors that make each bite exciting. Together, these ingredients create a balanced mix of sweet and salty that is simply addictive!
- 5 cups Chex cereal (any flavor): The crunchy base that holds everything together, giving you that satisfying crunch.
- 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips: The sweet chocolate flavor that coats the cereal beautifully.
- 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter: Adds richness and a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with chocolate.
- 1 tablespoon butter (unsalted or salted): Helps melt the chocolate and peanut butter together for a smooth coating.
- 1-2 cups powdered sugar: The sweet dusting that gives the Muddy Buddies their signature look and taste.
- 2 cups peanuts (I like to use Honey Roasted; use your favorite): Adds a crunchy texture and a sweet-savory flavor.
- 1-2 cups raisins (to taste): For a chewy contrast that complements the other ingredients.
- 1 cup plain M&Ms (or Reese’s Pieces would be good too): For extra sweetness and a pop of color!
Putting Together Trail Mix Muddy Buddies

Making Trail Mix Muddy Buddies is not just straightforward; it’s also a fun experience! Gather all your ingredients and let’s dive into this delightful process. Each step will bring you closer to that perfect snack that everyone will love.
- Start by preparing your workspace. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silpat baking mat. This will help prevent the Muddy Buddies from sticking once they cool.
- Next, in a large gallon-sized ziploc bag, place 1 cup of powdered sugar. This is crucial for coating your Muddy Buddies later on.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine milk chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, and butter. Microwave this mixture for 1 minute. This is where the magic happens! The chocolate and peanut butter will begin to melt.
- After microwaving, take it out and stir. Return it to the microwave in additional 30-second increments, stirring after each, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. You want a creamy, luscious blend that will coat the Chex cereal.
- Once melted, add your Chex cereal into the bowl. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure that each piece is coated with the chocolate-peanut butter mixture. Look for that glossy sheen that says they’re ready!
- Now, transfer the coated cereal into the prepared ziploc bag with powdered sugar. Seal the bag tightly, making sure to push out as much air as possible. Shake it vigorously to coat the cereal evenly with the powdered sugar. This step is so satisfying!
- Once coated, pour the cereal mixture out onto the lined cookie sheet. Set it aside to let the Muddy Buddies harden and cool completely. This should take about 15 to 20 minutes.
- If you want to take it up a notch, optional: once the Muddy Buddies have cooled, consider tossing them in another coat of powdered sugar (up to 1 cup) for an even whiter look!
- After they’ve cooled, take a large gallon-sized bag and add the Muddy Buddies, peanuts, raisins, and M&Ms together. I recommend starting with 1 cup of raisins, but if you love them, feel free to add up to 2 cups. Shake it all together gently until everything is mixed well.
- Your Trail Mix Muddy Buddies are now ready! Serve immediately or seal the bag for later use. They can be stored in an airtight bag or container for up to five days. Enjoy!
Things Worth Knowing
- Choose the Right Cereal: While Chex cereal is traditional, feel free to explore other cereals with a similar texture. Just ensure they can hold the coating!
- Melting Tips: When melting your chocolate and peanut butter, use short intervals in the microwave. This prevents burning and helps maintain a smooth consistency.
- Coating Alternatives: In addition to powdered sugar, consider using cocoa powder or crushed nuts for coating to give your Muddy Buddies a different flavor profile.
- Mix-Ins Galore: The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. Feel free to add different sweets, nuts, or dried fruits to customize your creation.
Make It Your Own

Get creative with your Trail Mix Muddy Buddies! There are so many ways to put a twist on this classic treat. Here’s how you can make it uniquely yours:
- Storage: Keep your Muddy Buddies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If they last that long!
- Freezing: Can you freeze this? Yes! For longer storage, freeze the Muddy Buddies in a freezer-safe container. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper.
- Pairing: Serve these with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced snack. They make a fun accompaniment to a fruit platter!
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different types of chocolate like dark or white chocolate, or try adding a dash of cinnamon or sea salt for extra flavor.
- Make it Festive: Add seasonal candies for holidays, such as pastel candies for spring or themed chocolates for Halloween. It’s a fun way to celebrate!
- Snack Packs: Portion them into snack bags for a perfect on-the-go treat. This is a great option for school lunches or road trips!
Serve This Trail Mix Muddy Buddies With
Enjoying Trail Mix Muddy Buddies is all about enhancing the experience. Here are some ideas to serve these delicious treats:
- Movie Nights: These are perfect for snacking while watching your favorite films. Pair with popcorn for an ultimate movie night!
- Picnics: Pack them in your picnic basket alongside sandwiches and fresh fruits for a fun outdoor meal.
- Playdates: Kids love these! Offer them as a fun snack during playdates or birthday parties.
- Gift Giving: Fill a mason jar with Muddy Buddies and tie a ribbon around it for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Seasonal Celebrations: They can be enjoyed year-round, but consider themed versions for holidays, making them a fun addition to any gathering.
- Breakfast Treat: While not traditional, they can also be served as an occasional breakfast treat alongside yogurt for a fun twist!
FAQ
Conclusion
The Trail Mix Muddy Buddies are truly a delightful treat that brings together a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. Their simple preparation and endless customization options make them a go-to for any occasion. So why not whip up a batch and share them with your loved ones? You won’t regret it!

Trail Mix Muddy Buddies
Equipment
- Wooden Spoon
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
- 5 cups Chex cereal any flavor
- 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon butter unsalted or salted
- 1-2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 cups peanuts I like to use Honey Roasted; use your favorite
- 1-2 cups raisins to taste
- 1 cup plain M&Ms or Reese’s Pieces would be good too
Instructions
- Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silpat baking mat.
- Place 1 cup powdered sugar in a large gallon sized ziploc bag.
- Place milk chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter in a large bowl. Microwave for 1 minute, stir, then heat in additional 30 second increments, stirring after each, until mixture is melted and smooth.
- Place Chex cereal into the peanut butter chocolate mixture and stir to coat.
- Place the cereal mixture into the powdered sugar bag and seal. Shake to coat the cereal.
- Turn it out onto prepared cookie sheet. Let the muddy buddies harden and cool.
- Optional: once they cool, give them a toss in another coat of powdered sugar (up to 1 cup) for a super white look.
- Once cooled, place muddy buddies, peanuts, raisins, and M&Ms into a large gallon size bag. I added 1 cup of raisins but if you love them, add up to 2 cups.
- Shake to mix, then serve or seal for later use. Store in the airtight bag/container for up to 5 days.
Notes
- Craisins: Consider adding these for a fruity twist.
- Other nuts: Feel free to incorporate your favorites.
- Reese’s Pieces: Add these for an extra peanut butter punch!
- Chocolate Chips: Vary the type of chips for different flavors.
- Anything you like! Customize with your favorite mix-ins.


