Description
This delicious and indulgent recipe creates a chocolate peanut butter coated cereal treat, often known as puppy chow or muddy buddies, with a rich brownie flavor enhanced by cocoa and semi-sweet chocolate chips, finished with a dusting of powdered sugar for a sweet and crunchy snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 9 cups Rice Chex cereal (or any similar crispy cereal)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cereal: Place the Rice Chex cereal in a large bowl and set it aside to be coated later.
- Make the Brownie Batter Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and peanut butter together in 20-30 second intervals, stirring after each interval until the mixture is fully melted and smooth.
- Add Chocolate and Cocoa: Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips and unsweetened cocoa powder to the melted butter and peanut butter mixture. Microwave again for 20-30 seconds, stirring until the chocolate chips are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and even in texture.
- Flavor the Mixture: Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, if using, to enhance the overall flavor of the coating.
- Coat the Cereal: Pour the brownie batter mixture over the cereal in the large bowl. Gently stir and fold the cereal pieces until each one is thoroughly coated with the chocolate mixture.
- Coat with Powdered Sugar: Transfer the coated cereal to a large resealable plastic bag or container with a lid. Add the powdered sugar, seal the bag or container, and shake vigorously until all cereal pieces are evenly coated with the powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
- Chill (Optional): Spread the coated cereal onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and allow it to cool and set for 10-15 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate for 5-10 minutes to speed up the process.
- Serve: Once set, transfer the puppy chow to a serving bowl. Enjoy immediately or store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Notes
- Use any crispy cereal similar to Rice Chex if preferred.
- Microwave times may vary, stir frequently to avoid burning.
- Adding a pinch of salt balances the sweetness but is optional.
- For a nut-free version, substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunch.
- Chilling is optional but helps the coating set for easier handling.
