Name: Muddy Buddy Rice Krispies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal; 2 cups Chocolate chips; 1/2 cup Creamy peanut butter; 1/4 cup Unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups Powdered sugar, sifted

Jump to Recipe

Looking for a quick, no-bake treat that’s chocolatey, crunchy, and fun to eat? Muddy Buddy Rice Krispies might just become your new favorite snack! Imagine the familiar crispy bite of Rice Krispies cereal coated in a creamy peanut butter-chocolate blend and dusted with powdered sugar. It’s almost dangerously addictive and comes together in under 20 minutes. I discovered this recipe on a rainy afternoon with my kids, and we ended up eating half the batch before dinner!

What makes this dish so special is its effortless prep, minimal ingredients, and irresistible flavor. If you love my classic Rice Krispies treats, you’ll adore this playful twist—it’s like Puppy Chow met your favorite cereal bar! Let’s dive in and make a snack that’ll have everyone crowding the kitchen for seconds.

What is Muddy Buddy Rice Krispies?

So, what’s in a name? Muddy Buddy Rice Krispies, also known as Puppy Chow Rice Krispies, might sound a bit wild, but it’s just pure snack-time genius. Ever wonder how this delightful dessert got its playful title? Maybe because everyone gets a little “muddy” (read: covered in chocolate) making it, or perhaps it’s just that irresistible mix of chocolate, peanut butter, and sugary goodness! Like they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and I guarantee Muddy Buddy Rice Krispies will win hearts of all ages. Don’t just take my word for it—try this sweet treat yourself!

Why You’ll Love This

Get ready to fall in love with Muddy Buddy Rice Krispies for three big reasons. First, it’s big on chocolate-peanut butter flavor, making every crunchy bite a delightful experience. Next, you’ll be surprised at how budget-friendly this recipe is—no need to splurge at the bakery when you can whip up a whole tray at home for a fraction of the cost. Finally, the signature powdered sugar coating and chance to play with fun toppings (think mini M&Ms or crushed pretzels) make these bars a standout compared to classic Rice Krispies treats. For those who already love my Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie bars, this recipe will feel like an instant upgrade. Grab your mixing bowl and let’s make snack magic!

How to Make:

Quick Overview

Muddy Buddy Rice Krispies are the ultimate easy treat—no oven needed and just minutes from start to finish! The rich chocolate-peanut butter sauce melts together in a flash, coats every cereal piece, and then each bite is rolled in a sweet snowy layer of powdered sugar. The hardest part is waiting for them to cool enough to eat! You’ll only need about 15 minutes of active time, making this dessert perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Pile of Muddy Buddy Rice Krispies dusted with powdered sugar on a parchment-lined tray

Ingredients

6 cups Rice Krispies cereal

2 cups chocolate chips

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

Step-by-Step

Measure out 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal and place them in a large mixing bowl.
In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine 2 cups chocolate chips, 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, and 1/4 cup unsalted butter. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.
Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract into the melted mixture for extra flavor.
Pour the chocolate and peanut butter mixture over the Rice Krispies. Gently fold with a spatula until every piece is evenly coated.
Let the cereal mixture cool slightly, then add 1 1/2 cups sifted powdered sugar. Toss gently until all pieces are generously coated—don’t be shy with the sugar!
For extra fun, stir in your favorite mix-ins (mini marshmallows or sprinkles work beautifully).
Spread the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy serving, or press into a pan for classic bars.
Allow to cool fully and set before cutting into squares or breaking into bite-sized pieces.

What to Serve Muddy Buddy Rice Krispies With

Muddy Buddy Rice Krispies are perfect on their own, but why not pair them for a sweet snack platter? Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast, or add them to a dessert board with cookies and brownies for parties. For drinks, try cold milk, a vanilla latte, or even a creamy hot chocolate—perfect for balancing that rich chocolate flavor and a sugary crunch.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Don’t rush the melting process—microwave in short bursts and stir well to avoid scorching the chocolate.
For extra crunch, add a handful of chopped pretzels or roasted nuts to the bowl with the cereal.
Be patient when coating with powdered sugar; toss gently so you don’t crush the cereal.
If you love more peanut butter flavor, drizzle a little more over the top before dusting with powdered sugar.
Switching out Rice Krispies for Chex cereal gives you classic Puppy Chow vibes with the same easy method.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store Muddy Buddy Rice Krispies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate for up to 1 week. To keep them from sticking, layer parchment paper between layers. Freezing is simple: place in a zip-top bag, remove as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp and enjoy. No reheating needed—just dig in!

FAQs

How do I keep Muddy Buddy Rice Krispies from getting soggy?
Keep them tightly sealed in an airtight container and avoid moisture. Don’t skip the baking sheet step so they can fully cool.

Can I use other cereals besides Rice Krispies?
Absolutely! Chex, Cornflakes, or even Cocoa Pebbles add great crunch.

Is it possible to make these nut-free?
Yes—swap out peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or a nut-free spread.

Can I make this recipe with white chocolate?
Yes! White chocolate chips and almond butter are a delicious twist.

My chocolate seized in the microwave—what can I do?
Add a splash of coconut oil and warm gently while stirring to smooth it out, or start again with fresh chocolate.

Conclusion

Muddy Buddy Rice Krispies deliver everything you love about chocolate, peanut butter, and crispy cereal in one dangerously easy-to-make snack. It’s the perfect treat for sharing (or not!), and the customizable toppings mean the fun never ends. Once you try this recipe, it’ll surely be a mainstay in your dessert rotation. For more creative snack ideas, browse the rest of the blog and discover a new family favorite today. Happy snacking!