There’s something irresistible about muddy buddies when fall flavors meet chocolate, peanut butter, and candy.

This autumn-inspired mix is crunchy, sweet, and perfect for sharing at parties or gifting in jars.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick, no-bake treat ready in minutes.

A festive mix of Chex, pretzels, M&Ms, and Reese’s makes it colorful and seasonal.

Perfect for holiday parties, movie nights, or edible gifts.

Kids and adults alike can’t resist the sweet-salty crunch.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Corn Chex cereal provides a light, crispy base.

Peanut butter and chocolate chips create the classic coating.

Powdered sugar gives the muddy buddies their signature finish.

Mini Reese’s Cups and M&Ms add festive fall flair.

Broken pretzels balance the sweetness with salty crunch.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Work in batches when coating with powdered sugar for even coverage.

Stir gently when coating cereal to avoid crushing.

Use autumn-colored candies (red, orange, yellow, brown) for a seasonal touch.

Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh and crunchy.

How to Make Fall Muddy Buddies Mix

Step 1 – Prep the cereal

Place the Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl and set aside.

Step 2 – Melt the chocolate mixture

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine peanut butter, chocolate chips, butter, and salt.

Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Stir in vanilla if using.

Step 3 – Coat the cereal

Pour the melted mixture over the cereal.

Stir gently until all pieces are evenly coated.

Step 4 – Add powdered sugar

Divide the coated cereal into two batches.

In a large resealable bag, layer ½ cup powdered sugar, half the cereal, and another ½ cup sugar.

Shake well. Repeat with the second batch.

Combine both batches in one bowl.

Step 5 – Mix in the extras

Add broken pretzels, ¾ cup M&Ms or Reese’s Pieces, and mini Reese’s Cups.

Gently stir. Sprinkle remaining candies on top for decoration.

What to Serve It With

Enjoy as a party snack mix.

Serve in jars or treat bags as edible gifts.

Pair with hot cocoa or apple cider for fall gatherings.

Variations / Substitutions

Swap Reese’s Pieces for candy corn for a Halloween twist.

Use white chocolate or butterscotch chips instead of milk chocolate.

Try almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.

Storage & Leftovers

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Refrigerate if your kitchen is warm, up to 1 week.

Not recommended for freezing, as candy coating may lose texture.

FAQs

Can I use a stovetop instead of a microwave?
Yes, melt chocolate, peanut butter, and butter gently over low heat.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just use a larger bowl and shake in more batches with sugar.

What’s the best way to package this as a gift?
In mason jars, cellophane bags, or decorative tins.

Can I use different cereal?
Yes, Rice Chex or Crispix work well too.

Do I have to use vanilla extract?
No, it’s optional but adds extra flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it keeps well for several days in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

This fall muddy buddies mix is festive, crunchy, and completely addictive. Whether you’re serving it at a

Halloween party, Thanksgiving, or just as a cozy fall snack, it’s a treat that brings joy in every bite.