What is the difference between puppy chow and muddy buddies?

Muddy buddies and puppy chow are essentially the same snack—crunchy Chex cereal coated in melted chocolate, peanut butter, and powdered sugar. The main difference is in the name. "Puppy chow" is a homemade term popular in the Midwest, while "muddy buddies" is the branded version promoted by General Mills. So whether you say puppy chow or muddy buddies, you're talking about the same sweet treat.

What do you need for muddy buddies?

To make a classic batch of muddy buddies , you’ll need just a few pantry staples: Chex cereal (Rice or Corn), semi-sweet chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and optional vanilla extract. It’s a no-bake recipe that comes together in under 10 minutes—perfect for parties or cravings.

Does Walmart sell muddy buddies?

Yes, Walmart sells muddy buddies under the Chex brand. You can usually find them in the snack or cereal aisle, in flavors like Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cookies & Cream, and more. They come in resealable bags and are great for on-the-go snacking or lunchboxes.

Does Costco sell muddy buddies?

Costco occasionally stocks large bags of muddy buddies , especially during the holidays or in their snack value packs. Availability may vary by location, so check your local warehouse or Costco.com. These versions are often bulk-sized and great for family events or parties.

Are Muddy Buddies a Midwest thing?

Originally, yes— muddy buddies (often called puppy chow) started in the Midwest and became a staple at potlucks, parties, and family gatherings. But thanks to their addictive flavor and viral recipes, they’ve become popular across the entire U.S. They’re now a national snack loved coast to coast.

Why do people call muddy buddies puppy chow?

The name puppy chow came from its resemblance to dry dog food—but don’t worry, it’s strictly for humans! The nickname stuck, especially in the Midwest, before General Mills began branding it as "muddy buddies" in official Chex recipes. Today, the two names are used almost interchangeably.

Muddy Buddies: Best 9 Ways to Make This Addictive Snack

Name: Classic Muddy Buddies (Puppy Chow)
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 9 cups Rice or Corn Chex cereal; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; ½ cup creamy peanut butter; ¼ cup unsalted butter; 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional); 1½ cups powdered sugar

Description

These classic muddy buddies are the ultimate no-bake snack—crispy Chex cereal coated in melted chocolate, peanut butter, and powdered sugar. Ready in 10 minutes and totally addictive!

Ingredients

Scale

9 cups Rice or Corn Chex cereal
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup creamy peanut butter
¼ cup unsalted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
1½ cups powdered sugar

Instructions

Place the Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth (about 1½ minutes total).
Stir in vanilla extract (if using).
Pour the mixture over the cereal. Gently fold until all pieces are evenly coated.
Transfer coated cereal into a large zip-top bag or sealed container. Add powdered sugar, seal, and shake until well coated.
Spread muddy buddies on parchment or wax paper to cool and set.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Notes

You can use almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or Nutella as substitutes.
Add-ins like M&Ms, crushed Oreos, or mini marshmallows can enhance flavor and texture.
Muddy buddies can be frozen for up to 3 months in an airtight bag—just thaw at room temperature before serving.
For extra flavor, add a second drizzle of chocolate after shaking with sugar.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Category: Snack, Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American

Keywords: muddy buddies, puppy chow, chex mix dessert, no bake snack, sweet chex mix, party treat