Peppermint Muddy Buddies: Easy Christmas Treat Recipe
There are certain flavors that just taste like Christmas, and peppermint and chocolate are definitely at the top of my list. These Peppermint Muddy Buddies take the crunchy snack mix so many of us grew up eating and give it a Christmas makeover with a sweet chocolate coating and crushed candy canes.
They’re sweet, crunchy, and pepperminty, and you don’t even need to turn on the oven.
That’s one reason I love recipes like this during Christmas. When the oven is already being used for cookies, breads, and everything else we’re trying to make, having an easy no-bake Christmas treat is always a win.
They’re also incredibly easy to package.
Now that I’m selling at local farmers’ markets, I’m always looking at recipes and thinking about whether they would work at a farm stand, bakery cart, or holiday market. Peppermint Muddy Buddies are exactly the type of treat I’d stop and look at.
Put them in a cute clear bag, tie it with a Christmas ribbon, and you’ve got something that looks festive without requiring hours of decorating.
They also make an inexpensive homemade Christmas gift, party snack, or Christmas movie night treat.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Serves: 16
Peppermint Muddy Buddies Recipe
One of my favorite things about this Peppermint Muddy Buddies recipe is how simple the ingredient list is.
There are only four ingredients, and you don’t even need peppermint extract. Crushed candy canes or peppermints give the snack its peppermint flavor and add little bits of Christmas color throughout the powdered sugar coating.
You’ll need:
- 8 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 24 ounces almond bark
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or peppermints
That’s it!
How to Make Peppermint Muddy Buddies
Start by adding 8 cups of Rice Chex cereal to a large mixing bowl. I recommend using a bowl that’s larger than you think you need. You’ll want plenty of room to stir the cereal and almond bark together without sending cereal flying all over your kitchen.
Place the almond bark in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave it in 30-second increments, stirring well after each interval, until it is completely melted and smooth. Don’t rush this step by heating it for several minutes at once. Short intervals give you more control and help prevent the almond bark from scorching.
While the almond bark is melting, grab a large zip-top bag. Add 2 cups of powdered sugar and ½ cup of crushed candy canes or peppermints to the bag and set it aside.
Pour the melted almond bark over the Rice Chex cereal. Gently stir until the cereal is evenly coated, being careful not to crush the cereal as you mix.
Transfer the coated cereal to the zip-top bag with the powdered sugar and crushed peppermints. Make sure the cereal is completely inside the bag, then seal it securely. And make sure it’s really sealed before the next step. Powdered sugar all over the kitchen isn’t quite the Christmas snow we’re going for.
Shake the bag until the cereal is thoroughly coated with the powdered sugar and peppermint mixture. You may need to gently turn and shake the bag a few times to make sure everything is evenly covered.
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Pour the coated Peppermint Muddy Buddies onto the parchment and spread them into an even layer. Allow them to cool and completely set before serving or packaging.
Then try not to eat half the pan while you’re waiting. That’s probably the hardest part!
Why I Like Using Crushed Candy Canes
There are plenty of peppermint puppy chow recipes that use peppermint extract, but I like how simple this version is.
The peppermint flavor comes directly from crushed candy canes or peppermints.
That means you’re also getting those tiny crunchy peppermint pieces throughout the snack mix.
And around Christmas, candy canes are certainly easy to find.
This is also a great way to use those extra candy canes that somehow accumulate around the house during December.
If you don’t have candy canes, regular peppermint candies work too.
The Easiest Way to Crush Candy Canes
You don’t need to pulverize your candy canes into complete dust.
You want a combination of small peppermint pieces and finer crumbs so they’ll distribute throughout the powdered sugar.
One easy method is putting the unwrapped candy canes or peppermints into a sturdy zip-top bag and gently crushing them with a rolling pin.
You can also use a food processor, but pulse carefully.
You’re making crushed peppermint, not peppermint powder.
If you’re using a food processor, let the peppermint dust settle for a moment before removing the lid. Trust me on that one.
What Are Muddy Buddies?
Muddy Buddies are a sweet snack traditionally made with crispy cereal that’s coated in chocolate and often peanut butter before being tossed in powdered sugar.
Depending on where you grew up, you might know them better as puppy chow.
And no, they’re definitely not for puppies.
They’re for us.
There are dozens of variations now, especially around the holidays. You’ll find Christmas Muddy Buddies, peppermint puppy chow, birthday cake versions, and seasonal recipes for just about every holiday.
This version skips the peanut butter and uses almond bark, powdered sugar, and crushed peppermint candies for a simple Christmas Muddy Buddies recipe.
What’s the Difference Between Puppy Chow and Muddy Buddies?
This is one of those questions that can spark a surprisingly strong opinion depending on where you live. In most homemade recipes, “muddy buddies” and “puppy chow” mean the same type of sweet, coated cereal snack. Muddy Buddies is the name people know from the Chex brand, while puppy chow is the name many families use for the homemade version.
For this recipe, I use both terms because if someone asks for peppermint puppy chow, this is exactly the kind of treat they’re talking about.
These Peppermint Muddy Buddies Don’t Have Peanut Butter
Traditional puppy chow usually uses peanut butter, but this recipe doesn’t. The Rice Chex gets coated in melted almond bark, then tossed in powdered sugar and crushed peppermint. That gives you a clean chocolate‑peppermint Christmas flavor.
Even though there’s no peanut butter, don’t call this recipe allergy‑friendly without checking labels. Always read the packaging on the cereal, almond bark, and candy canes because ingredients and factory warnings can change by brand. This is extra important if you’re making these for someone with food allergies or selling them.
How to Keep Muddy Buddies From Getting Soggy
Muddy Buddies should be crunchy.
If yours turn soft or soggy, moisture can be one of the culprits.
Start with fresh Rice Chex.
Once you’ve coated the cereal, spread the finished Peppermint Muddy Buddies over the parchment-lined baking sheet and give them plenty of time to set.
Don’t immediately seal warm or tacky Muddy Buddies inside a container.
Letting them completely set first helps preserve that crunchy texture.
It’s particularly important when you’re packaging them for gifts or selling them.
How to Keep Your Rice Chex From Breaking
The cereal is one of the things that makes puppy chow so good, so we don’t want to crush it while we’re making the recipe.
When you stir the melted almond bark into your Rice Chex, fold everything together gently rather than aggressively stirring.
The same applies when you add the cereal to your zip-top bag.
You need to shake it enough to distribute the powdered sugar, but you don’t need to beat it against the countertop.
Use a large enough bag that the cereal has room to move around.
Peppermint Muddy Buddies
Peppermint Muddy Buddies are a festive no-bake Christmas treat made with Rice Chex cereal, creamy almond bark, powdered sugar, and crushed peppermint candies. They're sweet, crunchy, and easy to make ahead for holiday parties, candy trays, or gift giving.
Ingredients
- 8 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 24 ounces almond bark
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup crushed candy canes or peppermints
Instructions
Add the Rice Chex cereal to a large mixing bowl.
Melt the almond bark in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second increments and stirring well between each interval until completely smooth.
In a large zip-top bag, combine the powdered sugar and crushed candy canes.
Pour the melted almond bark over the cereal and gently stir until all of the cereal is evenly coated.
Transfer the coated cereal to the prepared zip-top bag.
Seal the bag and shake well until the cereal is thoroughly coated with the powdered sugar and peppermint mixture.
Line a large baking sheet or tray with parchment paper.
Spread the muddy buddies across the parchment paper in an even layer.
Allow the mixture to set for several minutes before serving.
Make Peppermint Puppy Chow Ahead for Christmas
Anything I can make ahead during the holidays gets bonus points from me.
Christmas has a way of turning into one long list of things that need to be baked, wrapped, decorated or taken somewhere.
Peppermint puppy chow is something you can prepare before the party instead of waiting until the last minute.
Once the coating has completely set, transfer your Christmas Muddy Buddies to an airtight container and keep them somewhere cool and dry.
Then, when you’re ready for them, pour them into your serving bowl or package them for gifts.
Easy.
Peppermint Muddy Buddies for Christmas Parties
This is a great Christmas party snack because people can grab a handful instead of needing a plate and fork.
Put a big bowl on your snack table and you’re done.
You could also make individual portions using Christmas cups or treat bags.
I especially like this for casual Christmas get-togethers, church parties, school celebrations and Christmas movie nights.
If you’re making a larger holiday snack table, combine these with salty snacks too.
That sweet-and-salty combination gives people a little bit of everything.
Peppermint Muddy Buddies Make Easy Christmas Gifts
Homemade Christmas gifts don’t need to be complicated.
Sometimes the simplest recipes are actually the easiest ones to gift.
Put your Peppermint Muddy Buddies into a clear treat bag or food-safe jar, add a ribbon and gift tag, and you’ve got an inexpensive homemade Christmas gift.
They’re perfect for:
- Neighbors
- Teachers
- Friends
- Coworkers
- Sunday school teachers
- Delivery drivers
- Hostess gifts
- Christmas gift baskets
If you’re making several homemade treats, you could also add a smaller package to a Christmas cookie or candy box.
It’s an easy way to add something crunchy alongside all those cookies and candies.
Selling Christmas Muddy Buddies at Farmers’ Markets
Since I’ve started selling at local farmers’ markets, I’ve learned that presentation can make the simplest product stand out.
This is one of those recipes where customers can immediately see what they’re getting.
For a Christmas market, I’d package Peppermint Muddy Buddies in clear, food-safe bags so customers can see the powdered sugar and little pieces of crushed peppermint.
You could potentially offer a smaller snack-size bag and a larger package for sharing.
This could also be a fun seasonal product for a farm stand or bakery cart.
You don’t have to sell the same things all year. Seasonal treats give customers something new to look for when they come back.
Before selling homemade food, always check the current cottage food requirements where you live. Labeling, allergen disclosures, packaging, and permitted foods can vary.
And remember to check the ingredient labels on the specific products you’re using when creating your ingredient and allergen statements.
How to Store Peppermint Muddy Buddies
The biggest thing is keeping moisture out.
Once your Peppermint Muddy Buddies are completely set, transfer them to an airtight container.
Store them somewhere cool and dry.
If you’re packaging them individually, make sure your bags or containers seal well.
Don’t package the cereal before the almond bark has completely set.
Peppermint Muddy Buddies FAQ
Are Peppermint Muddy Buddies the same as peppermint puppy chow?
The names Muddy Buddies and puppy chow are commonly used for the same style of sweet coated cereal snack. This Christmas version uses Rice Chex, almond bark, powdered sugar and crushed peppermint candy.
Do I have to use Rice Chex?
Rice Chex works especially well because its shape catches the almond bark and powdered sugar coating while still giving you plenty of crunch. If substituting another cereal, keep in mind that the texture and allergen information may change.
Can I use peppermint candies instead of candy canes?
Yes. The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of crushed candy canes or peppermints, so either one works.
Can I use peppermint extract?
You don’t need it for this recipe. The crushed candy canes or peppermints provide the peppermint flavor.
Why are my Muddy Buddies soggy?
Make sure you start with fresh cereal and allow your finished Muddy Buddies to completely set before storing them. Trapping moisture inside the container can affect the crunchy texture.
Can I make Peppermint Muddy Buddies ahead of time?
Yes. They’re a great make-ahead Christmas treat. Once completely set, keep them in an airtight container in a cool, dry location until you’re ready to serve or package them.
Are these Peppermint Muddy Buddies peanut-free?
There is no peanut butter in this recipe. However, that does not automatically make the finished recipe safe for someone with a peanut allergy. Check every product label for ingredients and cross-contact warnings.
Can I make Peppermint Muddy Buddies for Christmas gifts?
Absolutely. Once they’re completely set, package them in food-safe treat bags, jars, or containers. They’re an easy homemade Christmas gift for teachers, neighbors, coworkers, and friends.
Can you sell Muddy Buddies at a farmers market?
Possibly, depending on your state’s cottage food laws and the ingredients you use. Check your current local requirements before selling them, particularly rules regarding ingredients, allergen labeling, packaging and permitted foods.
An Easy Christmas Treat Worth Making
Some Christmas recipes are worth spending an entire afternoon in the kitchen making.
Others are worth keeping around because they’re ridiculously easy.
Peppermint Muddy Buddies fall into that second category.
You only need four ingredients and about 15 minutes of prep time. There’s no oven, no complicated decorating, and no peppermint extract to measure.
Make a big bowl for Christmas movie night, package some for your neighbors, add them to your Christmas treat boxes, or turn them into a seasonal offering for your farm stand or holiday market.
Just don’t forget to keep a bag for yourself.
Because somehow the batch you’re planning to give away always seems to disappear a little faster than expected.
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