Spooktacular Halloween Double Peanut Butter Muddy Buddies: The Ultimate Fall Snack Mix
Get ready to unleash a delicious monster with this incredible Halloween Double Peanut Butter Muddy Buddy recipe! Imagine crisp Chex cereal, both classic Peanut Butter and rich Chocolate varieties, lavishly coated in a dreamy blend of melted chocolate and creamy peanut butter. Then, it’s playfully tossed in a fluffy cloud of powdered sugar, festive sprinkles, crunchy candy corn, and whimsical candy eyeballs. This isn’t just a snack; it’s a bewitching treat that promises to be the star of all your autumn gatherings and Halloween celebrations!
As the leaves begin to turn and a crispness fills the air, there’s an undeniable excitement for all things fall, especially the magic of October and Halloween. And what better way to embrace the spooky season than with a homemade snack that’s as fun to make as it is to devour? This recipe for Halloween Double Peanut Butter Muddy Buddies is perfectly timed to kick off October festivities. While it’s tempting to wait, I just couldn’t keep this delicious secret to myself! You deserve ample time to whip up a batch (or two!) before the ghouls and goblins come knocking.
If you’re already a fan of classic puppy chow and its irresistible combination of peanut butter and chocolate, prepare for your taste buds to be utterly amazed. This particular recipe takes that beloved treat to an entirely new level, doubling down on the peanut butter goodness for an experience that truly rocks your world!
This recipe was developed using products generously provided by Chex Cereal. Rest assured, all opinions expressed in this post are entirely my own, reflecting my genuine love for this fantastic snack.
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While these Double Peanut Butter Muddy Buddies are absolutely perfect for Halloween, don’t let the seasonal decorations limit your imagination! This versatile snack can be customized for any occasion. Instead of candy corn and Halloween sprinkles, you could easily swap in colorful chocolate M&M’s candies, or even use Reese’s Pieces to infuse even more peanut butter goodness – a true treat for any peanut butter enthusiast! The possibilities are endless. Think red and green sprinkles for Christmas, pastels for Easter, or simply classic chocolate for an everyday indulgence. However, for today, our focus remains on these delightful, powdered sugar-dusted bites, adorned with festive candy corn and playful candy eyeballs, making them undeniably Halloween-ready.
My journey to this delightful recipe began unexpectedly. Earlier in July, I shared my Lemonade Chex Mix on Instagram, which caught the eye of Chex Cereal. They messaged me, asking if they could reshare my post and even sent me a lovely “present” in the mail. Who doesn’t adore fun mail? A week later, a box arrived, packed with all the ingredients and a recipe for their Chex Double Peanut Butter Muddy Buddies. The moment I saw it, I was eager to grab my mixing bowl! But I exercised patience, knowing this recipe would be an absolute sensation as a Halloween snack mix. The vibrant colors and rich flavors were just too perfect for the season to rush.
What’s the Difference Between Muddy Buddies & Puppy Chow?
If you’ve ever wondered about the various names for this delightful, crunchy, powdered-sugar-dusted snack, you’re not alone! Honestly, the primary difference is simply the name. I, like many others, grew up referring to this homemade treat as “Puppy Chow.” It’s fundamentally the same recipe: cereal, typically Chex or Crispix, generously coated in a decadent mixture of chocolate and peanut butter, then tumbled in powdered sugar until every piece is gloriously covered. It’s a classic for a reason!
While the exact origin of the recipe remains a bit of a mystery, many believe the name “Puppy Chow” emerged from its visual resemblance to commercial dog food kibble. However, let’s be clear – there’s no actual dog food involved, and I can confidently say I’ve never seen or smelled any actual dog chow that tastes anywhere near this good, have you? It’s purely an affectionate, playful nickname that has stuck through generations.
Beyond “Puppy Chow” and “Muddy Buddies” (which is the registered trademark name by Chex, hence its common use), this versatile snack goes by several other charming aliases depending on region or family tradition. You might hear it called “monkey munch,” “muddy munch,” or even “reindeer chow,” especially around the winter holidays. Traditionally, it’s a snack often served at festive gatherings, holiday parties, or informal events like tailgating and watch parties. Its ease of preparation, portability, and universal appeal make it a perennial favorite for sharing joyously with friends and family.
On a side note, I must confess my slight addiction to Rae Dunn products. If you’re unfamiliar, her collection primarily features ceramic or glass pieces adorned with simple, evocative words. Over time, her brand has expanded significantly, now encompassing stationary, office supplies, baby clothes, and even shower curtains. Her line of pet products, in particular, is incredibly charming. It was there that I discovered this adorable Rae Dunn “Howloween” Dog Bowl!
I stumbled upon it just before receiving my exciting package from Chex. I knew instantly that my own furry companions wouldn’t be dining from it, but that it would be the perfect festive vessel for serving up my Halloween Puppy Chow! Isn’t it just the cutest? It adds such a fun, seasonal touch to this already delightful snack. Using themed serving dishes always elevates the experience, making any treat feel extra special for guests.
Ingredients in Halloween Double Peanut Butter Muddy Buddies:
Crafting this irresistible Halloween snack requires a few simple, readily available ingredients. The “double peanut butter” comes from using both Peanut Butter Chex cereal and creamy peanut butter in the coating, ensuring a rich, nutty flavor in every bite!
- **Peanut Butter Chex Cereal:** This is key for that extra layer of peanut butter flavor.
- **Chocolate Chex Cereal:** Complements the peanut butter perfectly and adds a wonderful chocolatey crunch.
- **Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips:** Forms the base of our decadent coating. You can also experiment with milk chocolate or dark chocolate for different flavor profiles.
- **Creamy Peanut Butter:** Essential for the classic muddy buddy coating and enhancing the “double peanut butter” theme. Make sure it’s creamy for a smooth texture.
- **Butter:** Helps create a smooth, rich coating and prevents sticking.
- **Powdered Sugar:** The iconic snowy coating that makes this snack so irresistible and prevents stickiness.
- **Candy Corn, Sprinkles, Candy Eyeballs:** These are the festive additions that transform our delicious treat into a spooktacular Halloween masterpiece! Feel free to use your favorite Halloween-themed sprinkles.
To begin, combine both the Peanut Butter Chex and Chocolate Chex cereals in a generously sized mixing bowl. This blend of two Chex varieties truly enhances the “double peanut butter” experience and adds an extra dimension of flavor and texture to your Muddy Buddies.
Next, in a separate microwave-safe bowl, combine your butter, creamy peanut butter, and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Microwave these ingredients in short bursts, stirring well between each interval, until the mixture is beautifully melted and perfectly smooth. This ensures an even coating for your cereal.
Once your chocolate-peanut butter mixture is silky smooth, pour it evenly over the mixed Chex cereal in the large bowl. The goal is to coat every piece without breaking the delicate cereal squares.
Using a spatula, gently stir the cereal, ensuring that each square is thoroughly coated with the delicious chocolate-peanut butter concoction. Take care not to crush the cereal. Once coated, transfer the mixture into either a large two-gallon Ziplock bag or a sturdy paper grocery bag. Add the powdered sugar and sprinkles to the bag, then seal it (or twist the top of the paper bag) and shake vigorously until the cereal is completely covered in a white, sugary dust. This is where the magic really happens!
Next, add the candy corn and any other fun, themed candies you’ve chosen. Gently shake again to distribute them throughout the mix, ensuring every bite offers a burst of color and flavor.
Spread the finished Muddy Buddies onto a large cookie sheet or sheet pan lined with parchment paper. Allow them to cool and set completely before transferring to an airtight container for storage. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect, non-sticky texture. If you’re adding candy eyeballs, wait until the mix is slightly cooled before placing them on top to prevent the powdered sugar from obscuring their adorable faces.
As a little tip for maximum visual impact, I usually add the candy eyeballs *after* the powdered sugar tossing. This way, their expressions aren’t dulled by the sugar coating, allowing their spooky charm to really shine through. Here’s lookin’ at you, kid!
Tips for Perfect Halloween Double Peanut Butter Muddy Buddies:
- **Gentle Mixing:** When coating the cereal with the chocolate-peanut butter mixture, be gentle! Use a wide rubber spatula to fold rather than stir vigorously, preventing the delicate Chex squares from breaking.
- **Don’t Over-Microwave:** Be careful not to overheat the chocolate and peanut butter mixture. Heating in short intervals and stirring frequently prevents scorching and ensures a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- **Even Coating is Key:** The powdered sugar step is vital! Ensure every piece of cereal is fully coated. This not only adds to the delicious taste but also prevents the muddy buddies from sticking together.
- **Cool Completely:** Allowing the muddy buddies to set on a sheet pan is important for their texture. They will become crispier and less sticky as they cool. Placing them in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes can speed up this process.
- **Storage:** Store your finished Halloween Muddy Buddies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, though they rarely do in my house!
- **Customization:** Don’t be afraid to get creative! Beyond Halloween, consider changing the sprinkles and candies for other holidays – red and green for Christmas, pastels for Easter, or patriotic colors for the Fourth of July. You could even add mini pretzels for a sweet and salty twist, or chopped nuts for added crunch.
Other Puppy Chow and Muddy Buddy Recipes to Fall in Love With:
If you’ve enjoyed this delightful double peanut butter version, you’ll be thrilled to know there’s a whole world of Muddy Buddy and Puppy Chow variations to explore! Each offers a unique twist on the classic, perfect for any craving or occasion:
- Coconut Muddy Buddies: A tropical escape with a crunchy, sweet coconut coating.
- Puppy {love} Chow – white chocolate & raspberry puppy chow: A romantic and fruity twist with the elegance of white chocolate.
- Peanut Butter Puppy Chow: The beloved original, a timeless classic for peanut butter purists.
- Pumpkin Spice Muddy Buddies: Embrace the flavors of autumn with warm spices, ideal for fall gatherings.
- Cake Batter Puppy Chow: A fun, celebratory version that tastes just like birthday cake!
Looking for another amazing Halloween snack mix that’s equally easy and delightful? Don’t miss my Halloween White Trash Mix. It’s a perfect companion to these Muddy Buddies for a diverse party platter, offering a wonderful blend of sweet and salty flavors coated in smooth almond bark – truly irresistible!
If you can’t find something absolutely perfect within my comprehensive collection of 25+ Popcorn & Snack Mixes, then I daresay you aren’t really hungry! Seriously, make sure you take a moment to explore it, and don’t forget to pin your favorites while you’re there. I’m constantly adding new and exciting recipes, so there’s always something fresh to discover for your next snack attack or party!
What do you say we finally dive into this BOO-TI-FUL recipe and create some spooky, delicious magic? Happy Halloween snacking! 
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Print Recipe
Halloween Double Peanut Butter Muddy Buddies
Equipment
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Assorted Candy Eyeballs Box
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13×18 Half Sheet Pan
Ingredients
- 5 cups Peanut Butter Chex Cereal
- 4 cups Chocolate Chex Cereal
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups candy corn
- 1/3 cup sprinkles
- Candy Eyeballs
Instructions
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In a large bowl, combine both types of Chex cereal.
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In a separate microwave-safe bowl, add butter, creamy peanut butter, and chocolate chips. Microwave for 1 minute, then stir well. Continue microwaving in 30-second increments, stirring thoroughly after each, until the mixture is fully melted and can be stirred smooth and creamy.
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Carefully pour the melted chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the cereal in the large bowl. Gently stir with a spatula, taking care not to break the cereal pieces, until every piece is evenly coated.
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Transfer the coated cereal to either a large paper grocery bag or a 2-gallon Ziplock bag. Add the powdered sugar and sprinkles to the bag. Seal the bag (or twist the top of the paper bag) and shake vigorously until all the cereal is completely coated in the powdered sugar.
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Now, add the candy corn and candy eyeballs to the bag. Give it another gentle shake to distribute these festive additions throughout the mix. Spread the entire mixture onto a large cookie sheet lined with parchment paper to allow it to cool and set completely.
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Once dry and set, store your Halloween Double Peanut Butter Muddy Buddies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and crunch. Enjoy!