This healthier version of Puppy Chow (a.k.a. Muddy Buddies) is everything you love about the classic sweet snack—crunchy, chocolatey, and addictive—but without any dairy, nuts, or refined sugar.
It’s perfect for sharing, and no one will even guess it’s vegan.
I’ve made this for game nights, picnics, and cozy movie marathons, and it always disappears fast.
Why I Love This Recipe
I started making this version after we had guests over with nut allergies, and I needed a sweet snack that felt indulgent but was still safe and plant-based. I tested several batches until I got the perfect balance of crunch and chocolatey goodness without the usual peanut butter or butter.
- Completely nut-free and vegan, but still decadent
- Just the right amount of sweetness and crunch
- No one can tell it’s “healthy”
- Only takes about 10 minutes to throw together
- No baking required!
What You’ll Need
- 6 cups rice square cereal (like Rice Chex)
- 1/2 cup dairy-free dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup sunflower seed butter
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
- 3/4 cup powdered coconut sugar (or regular powdered sugar if preferred)
Pro Tips
- Toss gently when coating the cereal to avoid breaking it.
- Sift the powdered sugar first if it’s clumpy—it helps with even coating.
- Use parchment if letting it cool on a sheet pan; it makes cleanup easier.
- Chill briefly if your chocolate mixture is too runny.
- Shake in batches to evenly coat cereal in sugar.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Rubber spatula
- Small saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large zip-top bag
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Substitutions and Variations
- Use oat squares or corn cereal if you don’t have rice cereal
- Sub tahini or pumpkin seed butter for sunflower butter
- Add a dash of cinnamon or espresso powder to the chocolate mix for extra flavor
- Use regular powdered sugar if you’re not avoiding refined sugar
Make Ahead Tips
- You can make this up to 4 days in advance—just store it in an airtight container at room temp
- Let it cool completely before storing so it stays crisp
Cooking Time & Yield
Makes: About 8 servings
Total Time: 15 minutes (plus 10 minutes to cool, optional)
Recipe & Instructions
Step 1: Measure Out the Cereal
Pour 6 cups of rice square cereal into a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Melt Chocolate, Sunflower Butter & Coconut Oil
In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup dairy-free dark chocolate chips, 1/4 cup sunflower seed butter, and 2 tbsp coconut oil. Melt over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth.
Step 3: Stir in Vanilla and Salt
Once smooth, remove from heat and stir in 1/2 tsp vanilla extract and 1/4 tsp fine sea salt until fully combined.
Step 4: Pour Chocolate Mix Over Cereal
Pour the warm chocolate mixture over the cereal. Use a rubber spatula to gently fold it in, coating every piece without crushing the cereal.
Step 5: Shake with Powdered Sugar
Transfer coated cereal to a large zip-top bag. Add 3/4 cup powdered coconut sugar, seal the bag, and shake until all the cereal is coated and no wet spots remain.
Step 6: Spread and Cool (Optional)
Spread Puppy Chow out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let it cool for about 10 minutes to set.
Step 7: Serve
Transfer to a round bowl and serve!
Leftovers and Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temp for up to 5 days. Avoid the fridge—it makes the cereal soggy. You can also freeze it for longer storage (up to a month); just let it sit out for 10 minutes before serving.
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Sunflower seed butter gives the same creamy richness as peanut butter without the allergens.
- Coconut oil helps melt and thin out the chocolate for better coating.
- Powdered sugar sticks best when the chocolate is still warm and tacky.
- Rice cereal holds its crunch thanks to its structure and airiness.
Common Mistakes
- Overheating the chocolate: It can seize. Melt low and slow.
- Adding sugar too early: Only shake when the mix is still warm but not wet.
- Crushing the cereal: Fold gently—this snack is all about the crunch.
- Using natural light nut butter: Too runny! Stick to thicker varieties like sunflower butter.
What to Serve With
- Iced herbal tea or cold oat milk
- A bowl of fresh berries
- Coconut yogurt with cinnamon for dipping
- Sweet popcorn for a snack spread
FAQ
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free rice cereal.
Can I make it without coconut?
Yes! Sub any neutral oil like avocado oil and use regular powdered sugar.
Is this sweet enough with coconut sugar?
It’s a little less sweet than traditional—but still satisfies the sweet tooth.
Can I double the batch?
Absolutely. Just mix and shake in two batches so everything coats evenly.
