Crunchy, chocolatey, and loaded with peanut butter and Butterfinger goodness, these Butterfinger Muddy Buddies are the ultimate snack mix for parties, game days, or anytime you’re craving a sweet treat. This simple no-bake recipe transforms classic Chex cereal into a decadent and irresistible dessert snack with a candy bar twist.
Why You Will Love Butterfinger Muddy Buddies
- Easy to Make: No baking required and ready in minutes.
- Perfect for Sharing: Great for parties, gatherings, or gifting.
- Packed with Flavor: Combines creamy peanut butter, semi-sweet chocolate, and Butterfinger crunch.
- Customizable: Switch up the cereal or candy for fun variations.
- Kid-Friendly: A treat that’s easy to make with little helpers in the kitchen.
Ingredients Notes for Butterfinger Muddy Buddies
These ingredients work together to create a sweet, crunchy snack packed with Butterfinger flavor.
Ingredients
- 6 cups Corn or Rice Chex: The perfect base for absorbing all the chocolate and peanut butter goodness.
- 8 oz semi-sweet baking chocolate: Melts smoothly for an even coating.
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter: Adds richness and complements the Butterfinger flavor.
- 16 fun-sized Butterfinger bars, divided: Crushed for a signature crunch and flavor.
- 1 cup powdered sugar, divided: Coats the cereal for a light, sweet finish.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Medium and small mixing bowls
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Ziploc bags
- Spatula
- Baking sheet or parchment paper (for drying)
How to Make Butterfinger Muddy Buddies
1. Prepare the Chocolate Chex
- Place 3 cups of Chex cereal in a medium mixing bowl.
- In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt semi-sweet baking chocolate at 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval. Do not overheat. Use the residual heat of the bowl to finish melting the chocolate.
2. Powder the Butterfingers
- Crush 5 fun-sized Butterfinger bars into a fine powder. You can use a food processor or place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin. Set aside.
3. Coat the Cereal
- Pour the melted chocolate over the 3 cups of Chex cereal, stirring gently to coat evenly.
- Transfer the chocolate-coated cereal to a large zip-top bag. Add ½ cup of powdered sugar and shake gently to coat, breaking up any clumps.
4. Add the Butterfinger Powder
- Add the powdered Butterfinger bars to the bag. Shake thoroughly to ensure the cereal is evenly coated.
- Spread the coated cereal mixture onto a baking sheet or parchment paper to cool and dry.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve in a large bowl for easy snacking. Add a few extra crushed Butterfinger pieces on top for presentation.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container and thaw before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
- Candy Swap: Use crushed Reese’s Pieces, Kit Kat bars, or Snickers instead of Butterfingers for a different flavor.
- White Chocolate: Replace semi-sweet chocolate with white chocolate for a sweeter twist.
- Crunchy Peanut Butter: Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
Helpful Notes
- Avoid Overheating Chocolate: Chocolate can burn easily, so heat slowly and stir often.
- Even Coating: Stir the cereal gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated in chocolate and powdered sugar.
- Make It Festive: Add colored sprinkles or M&M’s to match holiday or party themes.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Alton Brown: “When melting chocolate, always use low heat and stir frequently to keep it smooth and shiny.”
- Ina Garten: “For a deeper flavor, try using dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet.”
- Ree Drummond: “Add a pinch of sea salt to the melted chocolate for a sweet and salty flavor profile.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Butterfinger Muddy Buddies keep well in an airtight container, making them great for prepping ahead.
2. Can I use milk chocolate?
Yes, but the flavor will be sweeter and less rich compared to semi-sweet chocolate.
3. What’s the best way to crush the Butterfingers?
Place the bars in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin to crush them into a fine powder. A food processor also works well.
4. Can I use a different cereal?
Absolutely! Crispix or similar cereals work as a great substitute for Chex.
5. How can I make this nut-free?
Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or another nut-free alternative.
Butterfinger Muddy Buddies are a fun and indulgent snack mix that’s sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy this sweet, crunchy treat for any occasion!
