Secrets from the Cookie Princess: Holiday Muddy Buddies

Friday, December 5, 2014

Holiday Muddy Buddies

Surprisingly, I've never actually made muddy buddies. Or puppy chow as it is sometimes referred. But I have some friends who love it and I thought I'd give it a try for a party recently. So glad I did because this holiday version is amazing! It's got all kinds of fun flavor and a twist on the original because instead of peanut butter, this recipe uses chocolate-hazelnut spread (yup, Nutella). Add in M&Ms, yogurt covered raisins and sprinkles, then toss it all powdered sugar and you've got a deliciously messy sweet snack that's a little bit festive.

A few years ago, the Food Network Magazine put a booklet in the December 2011 issue titled 50 Edible Gifts. There's lots of fun treats in that booklet that would make lovely hostess or teacher gifts, but are also perfect for parties. So I definitely wanted to try this version of muddy buddies out when we recently got together with our friends. This is a super easy recipe, but I recommend two things--a really big bowl with a well-sealing lid and to just beware of the powdered sugar. There's a lot here and you could probably cut out a 1/2 cup or more, but it'll all settle to the bottom if it doesn't adhere to the mix. If you're looking for a twist on muddy buddies, and need an edible gift or just a large volume snack for an upcoming party, this recipe is what you've been waiting for, so get to it.

Holiday Muddy Buddies

Ingredients

1 cup chocolate-hazelnut spread
1/4 cup butter
8 cups Chex cereal (any variety)
1 pound powdered sugar
1 cup holiday M&Ms
1/2 cup yogurt covered raisins
1/4 cup holiday sprinkles

In a microwave safe bowl, combine chocolate-hazelnut spread and microwave in 30 second increments at 50% power, stirring between each increment, until thoroughly combined.

Measure cereal into a large bowl with a well-sealing lid. Pour chocolate-hazelnut mixture over cereal and, working quickly with a large spoon or spatula, stir until thoroughly coated.