Are you tired of the same old boring snacks that leave your sweet tooth unsatisfied? You’re in luck! These M&M’s Brownie Batter Muddy Buddies are about to revolutionize your snack game with irresistible chocolatey goodness in every bite. This quick, no-bake treat transforms ordinary cereal into an addictive dessert that literally melts in your mouth with rich brownie flavor.
Hi, I’m Michael, the heart behind Foodydish! As someone who’s tested countless snack recipes for family gatherings and movie nights, I’ve perfected this muddy buddy variation that consistently disappears within minutes. My nieces and nephews actually started calling me “The Snack Wizard” after I brought these to our last family reunion!
In this guide, I’ll walk you through choosing the right ingredients, the simple preparation process, creative variations, and answering your most common questions. Let’s create some sweet snack magic together!
Why These M&M’s Brownie Batter Muddy Buddies Work
● Uses everyday pantry ingredients you likely already have
● Comes together in just 15 minutes from start to finish
● Perfect for parties, lunchboxes, movie nights, or gifting
● Combines two beloved treats: brownies and muddy buddies
● Customizable to suit various flavor preferences and occasions
Choosing The Right Ingredients For M&M’s Brownie Batter Muddy Buddies
Best Base Ingredients For This Recipe
The foundation of perfect muddy buddies starts with rice Chex cereal. Its honeycomb structure captures the maximum amount of chocolate coating while maintaining its satisfying crunch. The geometric design holds onto the powdered coating better than flatter cereals, ensuring each piece delivers full brownie flavor.
Chocolate Selection Tips
For authentic brownie batter flavor, opt for high-quality chocolate chips with at least 50% cocoa content. Semi-sweet chocolate provides the perfect balance of sweetness and rich chocolate flavor. In a pinch, milk chocolate works too, but you’ll want to reduce any added sugar slightly to compensate.
M&M’s Varieties
While regular M&M’s provide classic appeal, consider these options:
- Brownie M&M’s for intensified brownie flavor
- Mini M&M’s for better distribution throughout the mix
- Seasonal colors for holiday-themed treats
Ingredients & Prep For M&M’s Brownie Batter Muddy Buddies
Muddy Buddy Base Ingredients
Rice Chex Cereal | 9 cups
Unsalted Butter | 1/4 cup
Chocolate Chips | 1 cup
Creamy Peanut Butter | 1/2 cup
Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon
Brownie Mix | 1 cup
Powdered Sugar | 1 1/2 cups
M&M’s | 1 cup
Coating Preparation
- Brownie Mix Magic: Unlike traditional muddy buddies that use only powdered sugar, incorporating dry brownie mix creates authentic brownie flavor while maintaining the perfect texture.
- Mixing Ratio: Combine 1 cup brownie mix with 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar for the ideal balance of chocolate intensity and sweetness.
Equipment Needs
- Large microwave-safe bowl
- Gallon-sized zip-top bags for coating
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Large mixing spoon or spatula
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions For M&M’s Brownie Batter Muddy Buddies
Pre-Cooking Prep For M&M’s Brownie Batter Muddy Buddies
- Measure out all ingredients before starting to ensure smooth assembly
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for cooling the mixture
- Prepare coating mixture by whisking together brownie mix and powdered sugar in a gallon zip-top bag
Cooking Method For M&M’s Brownie Batter Muddy Buddies
- Pour cereal into a large bowl and set aside
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter
- Microwave the chocolate mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until completely smooth
- Stir vanilla extract into the melted chocolate mixture
- Pour the chocolate mixture over the cereal and gently fold until evenly coated
Coating Application For M&M’s Brownie Batter Muddy Buddies
- Working in batches, transfer the chocolate-coated cereal to the prepared zip-top bag with powdered sugar mixture
- Seal the bag and shake gently until pieces are evenly coated
- Spread the coated mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer
- Allow to cool completely (about 15 minutes)
- Mix in M&M’s once the muddy buddies have cooled
Storage For M&M’s Brownie Batter Muddy Buddies
- Once completely cooled, transfer to an airtight container
- Store at room temperature for up to 1 week
- For maximum freshness, add a paper towel to the bottom of your storage container to absorb any excess moisture
Pro Tips For Perfect M&M’s Brownie Batter Muddy Buddies
Avoiding Common Mistakes With M&M’s Brownie Batter Muddy Buddies
- Don’t Overmix: Handle the cereal gently when coating to prevent breakage
- Batch Coating: Work in smaller batches when coating with powdered sugar mixture for even coverage
- Cooling Patience: Wait until completely cooled before adding M&M’s to prevent the candy coating from melting
- Proper Layering: Spread on parchment paper in a single layer while cooling to prevent clumping
Tool Recommendations
- Use a large silicone spatula for gentle folding
- Employ gallon-sized zip-top bags for easy coating without mess
- Invest in quality airtight containers for storage to maintain freshness
Making Ahead
- Prepare up to 3 days in advance for parties
- For gift-giving, package in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon
- Add M&M’s just before serving for the freshest appearance
Looking for more sweet inspiration? Check out our collection of homemade treats on Pinterest – we’ve got hundreds of dessert ideas that will satisfy any craving!
Flavor Variations For M&M’s Brownie Batter Muddy Buddies
Seasonal Twists
| Holiday | M&M’s Type | Added Ingredient | Special Touch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Christmas | Red & Green | Crushed peppermint | White chocolate drizzle |
| Halloween | Halloween colors | Candy corn | Orange candy melts |
| Valentine’s | Pink & Red | Freeze-dried strawberries | Heart sprinkles |
| Easter | Pastel colors | White chocolate chips | Mini egg candies |
Chocolate Lover’s Dream
- Triple Chocolate: Add cocoa powder to the coating mixture and include three types of chocolate chips
- Mocha Madness: Mix in 1 tablespoon of instant coffee powder to the melted chocolate
- Dark Chocolate Decadence: Substitute dark chocolate chips and add extra brownie mix to the coating
Sweet Alternatives
- Birthday Cake: Use cake mix instead of brownie mix with vanilla chips and sprinkles
- Cookies & Cream: Mix in crushed Oreo pieces with the M&M’s
- Peanut Butter Explosion: Double the peanut butter and add peanut butter M&M’s
Serving Suggestions For M&M’s Brownie Batter Muddy Buddies
- Create a dessert grazing board with these muddy buddies as the centerpiece
- Package in small cellophane bags for party favors or bake sale items
- Serve alongside vanilla ice cream for a crunchy sundae topping
- Include in lunch boxes for a special treat (portion in small containers)
- Create a DIY muddy buddy bar with various mix-ins for guests to customize
FAQs About M&M’s Brownie Batter Muddy Buddies
Can I make these without peanut butter for allergy concerns?
Absolutely! Substitute the peanut butter with cookie butter, sunflower seed butter, or simply increase the butter by 2 tablespoons for a nut-free version.
How can I make these less sweet?
Reduce the powdered sugar to 1 cup and increase the brownie mix portion. You can also use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for less sweetness.
My muddy buddies turned out soggy. What happened?
This typically occurs when the cereal is overcoated with the chocolate mixture. Next time, use slightly less chocolate mixture or add more cereal to achieve the perfect balance.
Can I use a different cereal?
While rice Chex provide the ideal texture, you can experiment with Corn Chex or even pretzel sticks for a sweet-salty combination.
How do I prevent the M&M’s colors from bleeding?
Add the M&M’s only after the mixture has completely cooled, and handle gently when mixing to prevent color transfer.
Sweet Conclusion
These M&M’s Brownie Batter Muddy Buddies aren’t just a snack they’re a crowd-pleasing sensation that brings smiles with every handful. The combination of crunchy cereal, rich brownie flavor, and colorful candy creates an irresistible treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
I’d love to see your muddy buddy creations! Tag @foodydish on social media with your snack masterpieces, and join the thousands of happy snackers who’ve added this recipe to their must-make list.
Now, all that’s left is to grab those ingredients and transform your kitchen into a sweet snack wonderland. Your friends and family will be begging for the recipe!
Print
M&M’s Brownie Batter Muddy Buddies: Sweet Snack Magic!
- Total Time: 15 mins
- Yield: 10 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Rich, chocolatey brownie batter–flavored muddy buddies tossed with peanut butter, powdered sugar, and colorful M&M’s an irresistible no-bake snack mix perfect for parties and holidays.
Ingredients
9 cups Rice Chex cereal
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup brownie batter mix (heat-treated)
1 cup M&M’s
Instructions
1. Measure cereal into a large mixing bowl and set aside.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter.
3. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until melted and smooth.
4. Stir in vanilla extract and brownie batter mix until fully combined.
5. Pour chocolate mixture over cereal and gently toss until evenly coated.
6. Transfer coated cereal to a large zip-top bag or bowl with lid.
7. Add powdered sugar, seal, and shake until cereal is fully coated.
8. Spread mixture onto parchment paper to cool completely.
9. Once cooled, gently stir in M&M’s and serve.
Notes
Heat-treat brownie mix before using to ensure safety.
Let muddy buddies cool completely before adding M&M’s to prevent melting.
Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 5 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 18mg
Keywords: muddy buddies, puppy chow, brownie batter muddy buddies, M&M snack mix