Save This White Chocolate Peppermint Muddy Buddies recipe is my go-to for transforming simple cereal into a seriously addictive holiday snack. Imagine crispy squares generously coated in rich white chocolate with just the right hint of peppermint crunch every handful is a sweet burst of festive nostalgia. You can toss this together in minutes which makes it perfect for parties movie nights or just when you want a sweet treat without any fuss.
I started making this for my book club’s cookie exchanges and now it’s become a Christmas Eve ritual my family insists we never skip.
Ingredients
- Rice or corn Chex cereal: perfect base it soaks up the chocolate while staying crunchy use fresh unopened cereal for best texture
- White chocolate chips: give a creamy smooth coating opt for high-quality brands that melt easily
- Unsalted butter: helps the chocolate coat each piece evenly choose real butter not margarine for best flavor
- Pure peppermint extract: brings cool refreshing flavor a little goes a long way prefer pure extract over imitation
- Powdered sugar: creates the classic sweet snowy coating sift for clump-free dusting
- Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes: add holiday sparkle and extra flavor use fresh candies not sticky or humid ones
- Mini marshmallows (optional): for chewy softness look for fresh minis not stale
- Holiday sprinkles (optional): for color and crunch try different shapes to fit any theme
Instructions
- Prep the Cereal:
- Measure 9 cups of Chex cereal and place them gently into a large mixing bowl You want plenty of room for folding so nothing spills out
- Melt the Chocolate and Butter:
- In a microwave-safe bowl combine the white chocolate chips and butter Microwave in 30-second bursts stirring well after each round Continue until completely smooth and silky with no lumps left
- Add Peppermint:
- Once melted and smooth stir in the peppermint extract The aroma should immediately lift and infuse the chocolate
- Coat the Cereal:
- Pour the warm chocolate mixture over the cereal Use a spatula to gently fold catching every piece Aim for all cereal squares to be shimmery and well-coated
- Prepare the Sugar and Peppermint Mix:
- In a zip-top bag or large container combine powdered sugar and crushed peppermint Shake or stir so the candy disperses evenly in the sugar
- Coat the Chocolate-Covered Cereal:
- Transfer the chocolate-coated cereal into the sugar and peppermint bag Seal tightly and shake vigorously so the coating covers all sides Think gentle but thorough
- Cool and Set:
- Pour out the coated cereal onto a parchment-lined baking sheet Spread into an even layer Let it set at room temperature for about 10 minutes so it is lightly crisp but not sticky
- Add Optional Extras:
- Once cool and crisp sprinkle in the mini marshmallows and holiday sprinkles if you want and toss for extra fun and color
- Store:
- Transfer to an airtight container at room temperature and enjoy within a week The texture holds up best if you seal it each time you snack
Save The crushed peppermint candies always steal the show for me They add pretty speckles and a cooling zip My niece loves to help crush the candies every year and that sound always means Christmas is here
Storage Tips
Store this mix away from heat and sunlight or the chocolate can soften and turn sticky I use airtight snack containers so it stays crisp through the week For longer storage keep small batches in the freezer then shake them gently after thawing to re-fluff
Ingredient Substitutions
You can easily swap in corn Chex if you prefer or use a gluten-free variety Almond or cashew-based marshmallows work for dairy-free versions Try dairy-free white chocolate and plant-based butter for vegan adaptations
Serving Suggestions
Fill mason jars or cute bags for gifts Bring this to cookie swaps or movie nights or top sundaes with a handful of mix Layered in small glasses it makes an easy dessert parfait for guests
Save This simple treat will spark holiday smiles and bring everyone back for another handful Enjoy every festive crunch
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use other cereal types?
You can substitute rice or corn Chex with similar crunchy cereals for texture and flavor.
- → How do I melt white chocolate without burning?
Microwave white chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth.
- → Is peppermint extract necessary?
Peppermint extract adds essential minty flavor, but you can omit or adjust to taste.
- → How should I store this snack mix?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness.
- → Can I make this treat gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free cereal to ensure the mix is suitable for gluten-free diets.
- → What add-ins work well?
Mini marshmallows and holiday sprinkles add color and texture; toasted nuts offer a nutty twist.