These Butterscotch Muddy Buddies are the kind of treat that disappears fast.
They’re crispy, sweet, salty, and perfectly coated in creamy butterscotch and peanut butter.
You don’t need an oven, you don’t need fancy tools, and they come together in just a few minutes.
I love making these when I want to whip up something fun for movie night or to bring to a casual hangout.
They always hit the spot.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe brings back serious nostalgia. My mom made these during the holidays, but I make them all year round. There’s something about the mix of crunchy cereal, sweet butterscotch, and that final shake of powdered sugar that makes people smile. It’s an easy crowd-pleaser.
- No baking required — just melt, mix, and shake
- Quick cleanup and only a few dishes
- Great for parties, lunchboxes, or gifting
- Stays crunchy for days when stored right
Makes: 8 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
What You’ll Need
- 6 cups rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
Pro Tips
- Use fresh cereal — stale cereal won’t hold up to the coating
- Don’t overheat the butterscotch chips or they’ll seize; melt slow
- Sift your powdered sugar before adding for a more even coating
- Shake in batches if your bag isn’t big enough
- Let them cool completely before storing so they don’t clump too much
Tools Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan
- Silicone spatula
- Gallon-sized zip-top bag
- Sifter or fine mesh strainer
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap peanut butter for almond or sunflower seed butter
- Add mini chocolate chips after shaking in sugar for extra flair
- Mix in pretzel bits for added crunch
- Use corn Chex if that’s what you have on hand
Make Ahead Tips
You can make these up to 5 days in advance. Store in an airtight container at room temp and they’ll stay crisp and delicious.
How to Make Butterscotch Muddy Buddies
Step 1: Melt the butterscotch chips, peanut butter, and butter
Add 1 cup butterscotch chips, 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, and 1/4 cup unsalted butter to a medium saucepan. Melt over low heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and fully combined.
Step 2: Stir in the vanilla and salt
Remove the pan from heat. Stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract and 1/4 tsp salt until well combined.
Step 3: Pour the mixture over the cereal
Place 6 cups rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl. Pour the warm butterscotch mixture over the cereal and gently fold to coat every piece evenly.
Step 4: Shake with powdered sugar
Transfer the coated cereal into a gallon-sized zip-top bag. Add 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar. Seal and shake well until everything is evenly coated and powdery white.
Step 5: Cool and serve
Spread the muddy buddies out onto a baking sheet to cool completely before serving or storing.
Leftovers and Storage
Store in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature for up to 5 days. If it’s humid, stick a paper towel in the container to help absorb moisture and keep things crunchy.
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The butterscotch chips and peanut butter create a smooth, rich coating that sticks to the cereal. The powdered sugar not only sweetens but also seals in that coating so it stays dry and crunchy. Adding butter helps loosen the butterscotch enough to coat evenly without making it too thick.
Common Mistakes
- Overheating the butterscotch chips — they get grainy fast. Melt low and slow.
- Using too little powdered sugar — you really need to coat well or it’ll be sticky.
- Not cooling before storing — that’s how you end up with one big cereal blob.
What to Serve With
- A tall glass of milk or iced coffee
- A bowl of fresh berries
- A handful of salty roasted peanuts on the side
- Toss some into a party snack mix with pretzels and M&Ms
FAQ
Can I use a microwave instead of the stove?
Yes, melt the chips, peanut butter, and butter in 30-second bursts, stirring each time.
Can I freeze these?
You can, but the texture isn’t quite the same. Best eaten fresh within a few days.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, if you use certified gluten-free rice Chex and double-check the butterscotch chips and peanut butter.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just use a really big bowl or mix in batches.
