Indulge in a delightful mix of Rice Chex cereal enveloped in a luscious blend of melted butter, strawberry candy melts and dual extracts that give vibrant flavor notes. The cereal is perfectly dusted with powdered sugar to create a snack mix that is irresistible for parties, celebrations and everyday treats.

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I love how this recipe combines the crunch of 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal with a burst of sweet strawberry flavor. The melted 1/2 cup unsalted butter makes the whole mix stick together while 12 oz of strawberry candy melts, a teaspoon of strawberry extract, and a teaspoon of vanilla extract create a rich, vibrant taste you dont find in your average puppy chow.

After coating, 9 cups of powdered sugar add a snowy finish that not only gives a festive look but also provides a quick burst of energy as its mostly carbohydrates and sugars. I first tried a version similar to a Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow, and it reminded me of those classic flavors with a twist that makes it perfect for Valentines Day, party bags, or birthday celebrations.

Its a straightforward recipe with familiar ingredients making it a fun twist on a classic Chex Mix that even a beginner can enjoy.

Why I Like this Recipe

1. I love how this recipe transforms regular Rice Chex cereal into something really special with that melted strawberry candy mix. It’s like every bite surprises me with a perfect blend of sweetness and crunch.
2. The way the powdered sugar clings to every piece is amazing. I feel like every time I snack on it, I’m getting just the right amount of sugary coating that makes it totally addictive.
3. I really dig how simple it is to make. Even if I’m not in the mood for complicated recipes, I can always mix up this treat for parties, birthdays, or even when I just need a fun, quick snack.
4. This recipe gives off a cool vibe that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s Valentine’s Day or just a random hangout with friends. It makes me feel like I’m creating a little bit of magic with food every time.

Ingredients

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Rice Chex cereal: Light and crispy, packed with carbs that give crunch despite low fiber.
Unsalted butter: Melted butter adds rich, smooth flavor and moisture though it’s high in fat.
Strawberry candy melts: These provide a super sweet, vibrant taste and a fun, colorful twist.
Strawberry extract: It boosts the fruity flavor without extra sugar, making it extra punchy.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the mix with a subtle sweet aroma and overall depth.
Powdered sugar: Offers a dreamy, sweet dusting that finishes the treat perfectly.

Ingredient Quantities

9 cups Rice Chex cereal

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 package (12 oz) strawberry candy melts

1 teaspoon strawberry extract

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

9 cups powdered sugar

How to Make this

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1. Grab a large mixing bowl and measure out 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal.

2. In a small saucepan or microwave safe bowl, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter until it’s completely liquid.

3. Add the 12 oz package of strawberry candy melts to the melted butter along with 1 teaspoon each of strawberry and vanilla extract.

4. Stir the mixture over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave until the candy melts are fully melted and everything’s smooth.

5. Pour the melted mixture over the Rice Chex cereal in the large bowl and gently stir until every piece is evenly coated.

6. Transfer the coated cereal into a large resealable bag or a big container that has a lid.

7. Add 9 cups of powdered sugar to the bag or container.

8. Seal it tightly and shake really well until the powdered sugar clings to all the cereal pieces.

9. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes so the coating can firm up a bit.

10. Enjoy your Strawberry Muddy Buddies as a tasty snack or share them in party favor bags for birthdays or Valentine’s Day!

Equipment Needed

1. Large mixing bowl
2. Measuring cups (for 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal and 9 cups of powdered sugar)
3. Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl
4. Microwave or stovetop (depending on which method you choose to melt the butter and candy melts)
5. Stirring utensil (spoon or spatula)
6. Resealable plastic bag or large container with a lid

FAQ

Can I use a different cereal instead of Rice Chex?

Yeah, you can try other crispy cereals but honestly, Rice Chex gives the best crunch so its really recommended.

How do I melt the strawberry candy melts without burning it?

Just melt them in the microwave in 15-second bursts, stirring in between. Doing it slowly is key so it dont burn.

Can I add extra strawberry flavor?

Sure you can add a bit more strawberry extract if you want a stronger flavor, but be careful not to overdo it because it might taste too artificial.

Why do we use powdered sugar?

The powdered sugar coats the cereal really well and gives it that classic muddy buddies look and taste, plus its what makes it so addicting.

How do i store these treats?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, they should last about a week if kept away from moisture.

Strawberry Muddy Buddies (Puppy Chow) Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Rice Chex cereal: You can try using Corn Chex or even Rice Krispies if you cant get rice chex, theyre both good options.
Unsalted butter: If you dont have that, you can use salted butter or even margarine or coconut oil if you like a little twist.
Strawberry candy melts: You could substitute with pink white chocolate or mix regular white chocolate with a dash of strawberry extract to get that same flavor.
Strawberry extract: If you run out, try using a bit more of the strawberry candy melts or a small amount of real strawberry puree to keep that fresh, fruity taste.
Powdered sugar: Icing sugar works just as well and is usually easier to find in most grocery stores.

Pro Tips

1. Make sure you stir the candy melts constantly when you melt them to avoid any burning, sometimes microwaves heat things unevenly so keep an eye on it.
2. When you mix the melted candy with the Rice Chex, do it gently so you don’t end up crushing the cereal, a careful stir goes a long way.
3. After you shake in the powdered sugar, letting the mix sit for a few minutes really helps the coating set and stick better.
4. If you find the sugar coating too thick, you can shake the bag a little more to redistribute the sugar evenly over all of the pieces.

Strawberry Muddy Buddies (Puppy Chow) Recipe

Recipe by Bob Jones

0.0 from 0 votes

Servings

servings

Calories

319

kcal

Equipment: 1. Large mixing bowl
2. Measuring cups (for 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal and 9 cups of powdered sugar)
3. Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl
4. Microwave or stovetop (depending on which method you choose to melt the butter and candy melts)
5. Stirring utensil (spoon or spatula)
6. Resealable plastic bag or large container with a lid

Ingredients

9 cups Rice Chex cereal
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 package (12 oz) strawberry candy melts
1 teaspoon strawberry extract
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
9 cups powdered sugar

Directions

Grab a large mixing bowl and measure out 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal.
In a small saucepan or microwave safe bowl, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter until it's completely liquid.
Add the 12 oz package of strawberry candy melts to the melted butter along with 1 teaspoon each of strawberry and vanilla extract.
Stir the mixture over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave until the candy melts are fully melted and everything's smooth.
Pour the melted mixture over the Rice Chex cereal in the large bowl and gently stir until every piece is evenly coated.
Transfer the coated cereal into a large resealable bag or a big container that has a lid.
Add 9 cups of powdered sugar to the bag or container.
Seal it tightly and shake really well until the powdered sugar clings to all the cereal pieces.
Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes so the coating can firm up a bit.
Enjoy your Strawberry Muddy Buddies as a tasty snack or share them in party favor bags for birthdays or Valentine's Day!

Notes

Below you’ll find my best estimate of this recipe’s nutrition facts. Treat the numbers as a guide rather than a rule—great food should nourish both body and spirit. Figures are approximate, and the website owner assumes no liability for any inaccuracies in this recipe.