Some people call ‘em muddy buddies, others have dubbed this sweet snack puppy chow. However you decide to say it, this recipe makes for a fabulous dessert or nibble! Many prepare this dish for the holiday season, but, honestly, I could eat this all year long! I’ve transformed this fan-favorite into a vegan recipe. It just goes to show that even if you eat a plant-based diet, you can still enjoy some of your favorite childhood treats. It reminds me of my sticky buns recipe. All of the good memories with none of the animal products. Let’s get started!
Ingredients needed (with substitutions)
Chex rice cereal – This is the base of the recipe and makes it naturally gluten free. Feel free to swap for wheat or corn Chex if desired!Vegan chocolate chips – All of the chocolatey goodness with none of the dairy. Several brands are naturally vegan friendly, like Trader Joe’s, Guittard and sometimes even generic brands, just check the ingredients list.Creamy peanut butter – This creamy ingredient adds an extra layer of flavor and helps the coating stick to the cereal. If you prefer almond butter (or another nut butter!), you can use that instead. For best results, don’t use the natural no stir kind. Creamy, shelf stable peanut butter works best.Non-dairy butter – The extra fat helps stabilize the chocolate. Coconut oil works too, or you can leave this out entirely since the peanut butter contains natural oils. Vanilla extract – For flavor!Powdered sugar – The final touch to coat your homemade candy in sweetness. The powdered sugar also gives the classic white coating that you probably associate with this popular treat! Feel free to use more or less than recommended, depending on preference.
How to make vegan muddy buddies
Prepare your ingredients. Place the cereal in a large bowl and set it aside. Microwave the chocolate/peanut butter mixture. Heat the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter in your microwave in 30-second intervals. Stir well in between, until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is creamy and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract. Time to assemble! Pour the melted mixture over the cereal and use a spatula to gently stir. Make sure that all of the cereal is well coated. And be careful not to crush the Chex! Add the powdered sugar coating. Carefully pour the powdered sugar into the bowl and use a spatula to coat the cereal with the sugar. Add it in increments, using more or less sugar as needed, until your vegan puppy chow is completely white. Serve and enjoy immediately!
Frequently asked questions
Mix-in ideas
There are all kinds of recipes out there, but it can get a bit tricky with vegan puppy chow. Crushed candy canes are a frosty addition, while pretzels add a lovely crunch (grab a gluten-free variety if needed). You could also add in some vegan candies or extra chocolate chips! Or grab a bottle (or three) of your favorite sprinkles and stir them in with the powdered sugar. You can find all kinds of festive shapes for any occasion. Sanding sugar also adds a bit of shimmer and comes in a variety of colors.
More fun holiday treats
Millionaire ShortbreadChocolate Peanut Butter BallsSnowball CookiesChocolate Crinkle Cookies
