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Muddy Buddy Cookies arranged on a rustic wooden table, coated in powdered sugar with chocolate and peanut butter accents visible
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5 from 2 votes

Muddy Buddy Cookies That’ll Make You Smile Big

Make irresistible muddy buddy cookies in minutes! A no-bake treat with chocolate, peanut butter, and powdered sugar that’s perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Muddy Buddy Cookies,, no-bake cookies,
Servings: 24 cookies
Calories: 150kcal
Author: Paul.B

Ingredients

Here’s What You’ll Need:

  • 1 cup peanut butter: Creamy works best for that smooth texture but crunchy can add a fun twist.
  • 1 ½ cups chocolate chips: Milk chocolate is classic but feel free to try dark or white chocolate for a different flavor.
  • 1 ½ cups powdered sugar: The magical finishing touch that coats each cookie with sweetness.
  • 4 cups rice cereal: A light crispy base that holds all the chocolatey goodness.
  • ½ cup unsalted butter: Helps create that rich melt-in-your-mouth coating.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A small but mighty ingredient that enhances all the flavors.

Optional Add-Ins:

  • Mini marshmallows: Add them for a gooey surprise in every bite.
  • Crushed pretzels: For a salty-sweet combo that’s absolutely addictive.
  • Sprinkles or candy pieces: Perfect for festive occasions or a pop of color.

Pro Tips for the Best Ingredients

  • Quality matters: Use high-quality chocolate and peanut butter for the richest flavor.
  • Substitutes: Allergic to peanut butter? Try almond or sunflower seed butter for a similar result.
  • Measure carefully: Especially the powdered sugar—too little and the cookies won’t have that signature coating.

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • Prepare the Rice Cereal Base
  • Pour the rice cereal into a large mixing bowl. Make sure the bowl is big enough for easy mixing later.
  • Melt the Chocolate and Peanut Butter
  • In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter.
  • Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Avoid overheating to prevent the chocolate from seizing.
  • Stir in the vanilla extract for an extra boost of flavor.
  • Coat the Cereal
  • Pour the melted mixture over the rice cereal. Gently fold everything together with a spatula until all the cereal is evenly coated. Take your time to avoid crushing the cereal.
  • Add the Sweet Coating
  • Transfer the coated cereal to a large zip-top bag or a lidded container.
  • Add the powdered sugar, seal the bag or container, and shake it vigorously. This ensures every piece is coated with that signature sweet dusting.
  • Chill and Set
  • Spread the coated cereal onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let it sit at room temperature or refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to set.
  • Shape into Cookies
  • Take small handfuls of the chilled mixture and press them gently into cookie shapes. For a bite-sized option, roll them into small balls.

Tips for Success

  • Keep it gentle: Be careful when mixing the cereal to avoid breaking it into crumbs.
  • Work quickly: Melted chocolate can set fast, so coat the cereal as soon as the mixture is ready.
  • Make it your own: Add sprinkles or drizzle with melted white chocolate for a fun twist.
    Step-by-step process of making Muddy Buddy Cookies, showing melted chocolate being poured over rice cereal and powdered sugar coating the mix

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
  • Calories: 150
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg
  • Sodium: 80mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 12g
  • Protein: 2g