Peppermint Bark Muddy Buddies deliver a festive crunch with Chex cereal coated in melted white chocolate and peppermint flavors, then tossed in powdered sugar and crushed candy canes for an irresistible holiday snack. This no-bake treat combines the classic Muddy Buddies texture with seasonal peppermint bark inspiration, perfect for parties or gifting. Quick to prepare in under 20 minutes, it captures holiday cheer in every bite.
Why You’ll Love Peppermint Bark Muddy Buddies
Peppermint Bark Muddy Buddies stand out as a holiday must-make for their effortless preparation and crowd-pleasing taste. They blend the addictive sweet-salty crunch of traditional Muddy Buddies with vibrant peppermint notes that evoke candy cane bliss. No oven required means more time enjoying the season.
- Effortless no-bake process finishes in minutes, ideal for busy bakers.
- Festive peppermint bark twist adds minty refreshment to chocolate-coated cereal.
- Customizable for gifting in jars or bags with ribbons for neighbors and teachers.
- Kid-friendly assembly turns snack-making into family fun.
- Gluten-free options using rice Chex keep it inclusive for all guests.
Ingredients
Gather these simple pantry staples for 10-12 servings of Peppermint Bark Muddy Buddies:
- 9 cups Rice Chex cereal (or Corn Chex for variety)
- 12 oz white chocolate chips or almond bark
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract (optional for extra mint kick)
- 1 1/2 cups crushed candy canes or peppermint bark pieces (about 8-10 full canes)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter (to smooth melting)
These measurements yield clusters bursting with flavor; adjust candy for desired crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare Peppermint Bark Muddy Buddies with these straightforward steps for perfect results every time.
- Measure 9 cups Rice Chex into a large mixing bowl; set aside.
- Crush candy canes into a mix of fine crumbs and chunks using a food processor or sealed bag with rolling pin.
- Melt white chocolate with oil in microwave-safe bowl: heat 30 seconds, stir, repeat until smooth (about 1-2 minutes total); stir in peppermint extract.
- Pour melted chocolate over cereal in three batches, gently folding with spatula to coat evenly without crushing pieces.
- In a large zip-top bag, combine powdered sugar and half the crushed candy canes; add coated cereal in batches, seal, and shake vigorously to cover.
- Spread on parchment-lined baking sheet; sprinkle remaining candy canes on top. Let set 15-30 minutes or chill briefly.
How to Serve Peppermint Bark Muddy Buddies
Serve Peppermint Bark Muddy Buddies as a standout holiday snack that elevates any gathering with its crunchy, minty allure. Portion into festive bowls for potlucks, or package in cellophane bags tied with ribbon for teacher gifts—add a tag saying “Sweet Holiday Crunch!” Pair with hot cocoa for a cozy movie night treat, letting the peppermint cut through rich chocolate warmth. For parties, scatter on charcuterie boards alongside Snowman Christmas Cheese Ball for savory contrast and visual pop.
- Display in tiered platters with red and green sprinkles for Christmas vibes.
- Layer in trifle bowls for self-serve appeal at large events.
- Kids love grabbing handfuls during game nights.
- Serve chilled in mini cups with spoons, topped with extra crushed peppermint.
- Sprinkle over pancakes for breakfast bark buddies at brunches.
Enhance with dips like vanilla yogurt for unexpected creaminess, or alongside Million Dollar Bacon Crostini for sweet-savory balance. Versatility extends to weddings or baby showers with custom colors. Always serve at room temperature for peak crunch; yields 10 cups, enough for 12 guests.
How to Store Peppermint Bark Muddy Buddies
Proper storage keeps Peppermint Bark Muddy Buddies crunchy and fresh for days, preserving their signature texture amid holiday hustle. Transfer cooled clusters to airtight containers like glass jars or zip-top bags immediately after setting—layer with parchment to prevent sticking. Room temperature works best in cool, dry spots away from humidity; avoid fridges unless in hot climates, as moisture softens cereal.
- Freeze portions in freezer bags up to one month: spread flat first to avoid clumps.
- Label with dates for easy access during busy weeks.
- Use tins lined with wax paper for travel-safe gifting.
- Revive softened batches by toasting lightly at 250°F for 5 minutes.
- Add silica packets in humid areas to absorb moisture.
Smaller containers portion for grab-and-go snacks. Always check for staleness before serving; discard if overly soft. This method maximizes enjoyment from batch to last bite, ideal for pre-holiday prep.
Tips to Make Peppermint Bark Muddy Buddies
Master Peppermint Bark Muddy Buddies with these pro tips for flawless execution and enhanced flavor. Melt chocolate slowly in 20-second bursts, stirring vigorously to avoid seizing—adding oil ensures silkiness. Crush candy canes just before use for freshness; pulse in processor for uniform pieces that cling without overwhelming.
- Work in small batches during coating to prevent cereal breakage.
- Taste-test extract strength; start low as peppermint intensifies post-set.
- For gluten-free, confirm Chex labeling and skip wheat varieties.
- Boost visuals with red-green M&Ms post-coating before sugar.
- Sift powdered sugar for lump-free dusting.
- Chill sheet in freezer 10 minutes for instant set in warm kitchens.
Pair with Easy 3-Ingredient Sugar Cookies for doughnut-like duos. Scale up by doubling, but mix in largest bowl available. Troubleshoot stickiness by adding more sugar incrementally. These tweaks yield bakery-level results effortlessly.
Variations of Peppermint Bark Muddy Buddies
Explore variations of Peppermint Bark Muddy Buddies to suit diets and occasions while keeping the minty core. Swap white for dark chocolate and add espresso powder for mocha depth, coating Corn Chex for nuttier base.
- Peanut Butter Twist: Stir 1/4 cup PB into melted chocolate for classic Muddy Buddy nod.
- Dark Chocolate Version: Use bittersweet chips, omit extract, top with sea salt flakes.
- Vegan Option: Coconut oil with dairy-free white chocolate, gluten-free Chex.
- Pretzel Crunch: Fold in mini pretzels pre-sugar for salty contrast.
- M&Ms Festive: Toss holiday candies post-coating for color pop.
- Lemon Zest Refresh: Sub half candy canes with candied lemon peel.
White chocolate-peanut butter amps creaminess; test with almond butter for nuttiness. For spice, dust cinnamon-sugar blend. Smaller batches experiment flavors without waste. These keep the no-bake ease while personalizing for potlucks or allergies.
FAQs
Can I make Peppermint Bark Muddy Buddies ahead?
Yes, prepare up to 3 days early; store airtight at room temp for best crunch.
Are they gluten-free?
Use Rice or Corn Chex and check chocolate labels—most versions qualify.
How do I avoid crushed cereal?
Fold gently in batches with spoons; avoid over-stirring.
Can I use real chocolate instead of chips?
Yes, chopped bars work; add oil for smooth melt.
What if I lack candy canes?
Peppermint bark pieces or Andes mints substitute perfectly.
Final Thoughts
Peppermint Bark Muddy Buddies transform holiday snacking into a joyful ritual, blending nostalgia with festive flair that draws everyone together. This treat shines beyond the plate—gift jars to neighbors for instant smiles, or set out at cookie swaps to steal the show without oven time. Its versatility fits every occasion, from family movie marathons to elegant gala nights.
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Peppermint Bark Muddy Buddies
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 10 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Festive Peppermint Bark Muddy Buddies feature Chex cereal coated in white chocolate and peppermint, dusted with powdered sugar and candy canes for holiday crunch.
Ingredients
- 9 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 12 oz white chocolate chips or almond bark
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- 1 1/2 cups crushed candy canes
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions
1. Measure cereal into large bowl.
2. Crush candy canes.
3. Melt chocolate with oil and extract; pour over cereal in batches, fold gently.
4. Shake coated cereal in bag with sugar and candy.
5. Spread to set on parchment.
Notes
Melt slowly to avoid seizing. Use rice Chex for gluten-free. Freeze extras up to 1 month.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg