Nutella Muddy Buddies Recipe: Chocolate Hazelnut Snack Mix

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Everyone’s Favorite. This simple, no-bake dessert is a crowd-pleaser—once you share it, people will ask for more.
• Easy to Serve. Present it in bowls, fill small cups for parties, or package portions as hostess or teacher gifts.
• Make-Ahead Friendly. Prepare a batch in advance so a crunchy, sweet snack is ready when you are.

Nutella Puppy Chow

This version of Puppy Chow (also called Muddy Buddies) swaps peanut butter for Nutella for a nutty, chocolate-forward flavor. Crisp Rice Chex pieces get coated in a warm mixture of Nutella, melted chocolate, and butter, then finished with powdered sugar to create bite-sized pieces of crunchy, sweet goodness.

It’s quick to make and requires minimal effort, which is why Puppy Chow is a classic go-to snack. Make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week, bring it to a gathering, or portion it into gift bags for a homemade present.

Ingredients You Will Need

• Rice Chex Cereal – Light and crisp, it soaks up the coating without getting soggy. Substitute Crispix if needed.
• Chocolate Chips – Melted with the Nutella. Use milk, semi-sweet, or try white chocolate for a variation.
• Nutella – Hazelnut spread replaces peanut butter for a different nutty flavor and similar texture.
• Butter – Salted or unsalted works; butter adds richness and helps the chocolate and Nutella melt smoothly.
• Vanilla Extract – A small amount brightens and rounds the flavors.
• Powdered Sugar – Coats the pieces and sets the mixture once cooled.

How to Make Nutella Puppy Chow

1. Melt the chocolate, Nutella, and butter. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, Nutella, and butter. Microwave on high for about 45 seconds, stir, then heat an additional 30 seconds if needed. Stir until smooth and creamy.
2. Coat the cereal. Place the Rice Chex in a large bowl. Drizzle the warm Nutella mixture over the cereal and stir gently until the pieces are evenly coated.
3. Coat with powdered sugar. Transfer half the coated cereal to a gallon-size zip-top bag, add half the powdered sugar, seal, and shake gently until coated. Repeat with the remaining cereal and powdered sugar.
4. Cool. Spread the finished Puppy Chow on a parchment-lined baking sheet and allow it to cool and set in a cool, dry place.
5. Serve and store. Serve in a large bowl or portion into individual cups. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–5 days or freeze for longer storage.

Yes. Muddy Buddies and Puppy Chow refer to the same confection: cereal coated in a chocolate/peanut-butter (or Nutella) mixture and dusted with powdered sugar. The names vary by region and brand.

Yes. To extend shelf life, freeze Puppy Chow in airtight freezer bags for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Storing

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for 3–5 days.
• Freezer: Place cooled Puppy Chow in freezer bags and freeze for up to 2 months.

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