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Patriotic Puppy Chow

Patriotic puppy chow (aka muddy buddies) is a no-bake Chex mix dessert with white chocolate coating, powdered sugar dust, and red-and-blue M&Ms. Pieces come out glossy and candy-studded, then cool into a set, crunchy party snack.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
cooling 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 16 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Patriotic puppy chow base
  • 9 cup Chex cereal Use rice or corn Chex.
  • 12 oz white chocolate chips or white melting wafers Use white chocolate chips or melting wafers.
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter Helps thin and smooth the coating.
  • 2 cup powdered sugar For the classic dusty coating.
  • 1 cup red M&Ms Fold in after the coating sets.
  • 1 cup blue M&Ms Fold in after the coating sets.
  • 1 Red and blue star sprinkles Adds patriotic sparkle on top.

Equipment

  • 1 sheet pan

Method
 

Coat the Chex
  1. Measure the Chex cereal into a very large bowl and set aside.
  2. Melt the white chocolate chips and butter together in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until completely smooth.
  3. Pour the melted white chocolate over the Chex and stir gently until every piece is evenly coated.
Dust with powdered sugar
  1. Transfer the coated cereal into a large zip-lock bag, add powdered sugar, seal, and shake vigorously until all pieces are well coated.
  2. Spread the coated cereal onto a parchment-lined sheet pan and let cool for 30 minutes until set, with a dry, matte powder look forming on the pieces.
Add patriotic candy and serve
  1. Transfer the cooled puppy chow to a large bowl and toss with the red and blue M&Ms and star sprinkles, so the mix looks dotted throughout with candy colors.
  2. Serve in a big bowl or portion into individual bags for a party-ready treat.

Notes

Pro tip: let the coated Chex cool fully before adding the M&Ms and sprinkles, so the candy stays bright and the sprinkles don’t melt. Store airtight at room temperature for 3-4 days; they stay crunchy best. Freezing: yes, up to 1 month in a sealed container (sprinkles may dull slightly). Dietary swap: use dairy-free white chocolate chips to make it dairy-free while keeping the same method.