If you’re on the hunt for a snack that’s irresistibly crunchy, chocolaty, and dairy-free, you’ve just stumbled upon a gem. This Vegan Puppy Chow (Muddy Buddies) Recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a delightfully addictive treat that’s perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying solo. It’s a wonderful twist on the classic puppy chow, using vegan ingredients to keep it truly plant-based without sacrificing any of that signature sweet and nutty flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the right ingredients for this recipe is refreshingly straightforward. Each component plays a key role, from ensuring the perfect texture to delivering that rich chocolate flavor and the iconic dusting of powdered sugar that makes this snack so recognizable.
- 6 cups Chex mix cereal: The foundation of this recipe, its crispy texture forms the perfect base for all the sweet coating.
- 1 cup peanut butter: Adds creamy, nutty richness and helps the chocolate mixture bind to the cereal.
- 1 cup Vegan dark chocolate chips: Brings deep, intense cocoa flavor while keeping the recipe vegan-friendly.
- ¼ cup coconut oil: Helps melt and smooth the chocolate and peanut butter together, giving that luscious coating.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle, fragrant sweetness.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: The final touch that provides that classic, snowy coating and just the right amount of sweetness.
How to Make Vegan Puppy Chow (Muddy Buddies) Recipe
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate Mixture
Start by combining peanut butter, vegan dark chocolate chips, coconut oil, and vanilla extract in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds, then stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and completely melted. This luscious blend will coat every piece of cereal perfectly, so take your time to get it silky.
Step 2: Combine with Chex Mix
Pour your Chex mix into a large mixing bowl. Slowly drizzle the melted chocolate and peanut butter mixture over it. Gently fold the cereal over and over until each piece has a decadent chocolate coat. The key here is to be gentle so the cereal stays crispy and doesn’t crumble.
Step 3: Add the Powdered Sugar Coating
Pour 1 cup of powdered sugar into a large Ziplock bag. Carefully transfer the chocolate-coated Chex mix into the bag. Seal it tightly and shake vigorously until every bit of cereal is covered in that iconic powdered sugar dusting. This step locks in sweetness and gives Vegan Puppy Chow its classic look.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once thoroughly coated, spread the mixture out on a baking sheet or keep it in the bag to cool and set for a minute or two. Then it’s ready to snack on immediately—perfect for parties, movie nights, or whenever that sweet craving hits.
How to Serve Vegan Puppy Chow (Muddy Buddies) Recipe
Garnishes
While this recipe shines on its own, adding a sprinkle of chopped roasted peanuts or a dash of cinnamon can introduce delightful new layers of flavor and texture. You might also toss in some vegan mini marshmallows if you want to switch things up with a soft surprise alongside the crunch.
Side Dishes
Pair your Vegan Puppy Chow with a cold glass of almond or oat milk for the ultimate nostalgic combo. It also complements fresh fruit slices beautifully, balancing the sweetness and making for a satisfying snack spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress guests? Serve the puppy chow in individual clear cups or small mason jars topped with a sprig of fresh mint. You can also layer it in a dessert trifle bowl with vegan whipped cream and berries for a festive twist everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Vegan Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature to keep that delightful crunch. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to a week, making it easy to enjoy bit by bit whenever you want.
Freezing
You can freeze the snack for longer storage by placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container. When frozen, Vegan Puppy Chow maintains its texture well and can be kept for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
Because this treat is meant to be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled, reheating is not necessary. If the coating seems a bit firm from the fridge or freezer, just let it sit out for a few minutes to soften up naturally.
FAQs
Can I use other nut butters instead of peanut butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter or cashew butter work wonderfully in this recipe, though the flavor will subtly change. Just make sure they’re smooth and creamy for the best coating consistency.
Is this Vegan Puppy Chow (Muddy Buddies) Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you select gluten-free Chex mix or a gluten-free cereal alternative, the rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this snack suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
How can I make this recipe less sweet?
Try reducing the powdered sugar slightly or using a dark vegan chocolate with higher cocoa content to keep the sweetness in check without sacrificing flavor.
Can I add mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit?
Definitely! Stir in some chopped nuts, vegan chocolate chips, or dried cranberries after coating the cereal to introduce even more texture and flavor.
What is the best way to keep the crunch?
Store the Vegan Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature and avoid humid environments. Keeping it sealed prevents moisture from softening the crunchy cereal.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly heartwarming about making a beloved classic like puppy chow with a vegan twist. This Vegan Puppy Chow (Muddy Buddies) Recipe is incredibly easy, quick to prepare, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re sharing with friends or indulging on your own, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your snack repertoire. So go ahead, give it a try—you won’t regret it!
Print
Vegan Puppy Chow (Muddy Buddies) Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Vegan Puppy Chow, also known as Muddy Buddies, is a delicious and easy-to-make snack featuring crunchy Chex cereal coated in a luscious blend of peanut butter, vegan dark chocolate, coconut oil, and vanilla, then dusted with powdered sugar. Perfect for vegan diets and a delightful treat for parties or anytime snacking.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups Chex mix cereal (use gluten-free if desired)
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup vegan dark chocolate chips
- ¼ cup coconut oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar (plus more if desired)
Instructions
- Prepare the chocolate mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the peanut butter, vegan dark chocolate chips, coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
- Microwave and stir: Microwave the mixture for 30 seconds. Remove and stir thoroughly until the mixture is completely melted, smooth, and creamy.
- Combine with cereal: Place the Chex mix cereal in a large bowl, then pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal.
- Coat the cereal: Gently stir the mixture to ensure every piece of Chex mix is fully coated with the chocolate blend.
- Add powdered sugar: Transfer the coated Chex mix into a large resealable plastic bag containing the powdered sugar.
- Shake to coat: Seal the bag securely and shake vigorously until the cereal pieces are thoroughly coated with powdered sugar.
- Serve and enjoy: Open the bag and serve the Vegan Puppy Chow immediately or store in an airtight container for later snacking.
Notes
- For gluten-free option, ensure the Chex mix cereal is gluten-free.
- If you prefer sweeter Puppy Chow, add more powdered sugar during the shaking step.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- This recipe is perfect for vegan and dairy-free diets.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Microwaving
- Cuisine: American
