why make this recipe
This snack is quick, sweet, and fun for Valentine’s Day. It uses simple ingredients and kids and adults both love it. If you like easy party treats, this fits well with other simple desserts like heartwarming Mother’s Day desserts that are easy to share.
introduction
Valentine’s Day Muddy Buddies mix bright colors with crunchy Chex cereal and sweet candy. You make two colors, coat cereal in melted candy, and dust with powdered sugar. Finish with red and pink M&M’s and sprinkles for a festive look. This snack works for parties, gifts, or a movie night.
how to make Valentine’s Day Muddy Buddies
Follow the simple steps below. Work in two batches so you get pink and red pieces. Use gentle folding so the cereal does not break. Cool before adding M&M’s and sprinkles so they do not melt.
Ingredients :
- 7 cups Chex cereal (divided)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (divided)
- 1 cup pink candy melts
- 1 cup red candy melts
- 2 tsp vegetable oil
- 1 cup Valentine’s Day M&M’s
- 2-4 tbsp Valentine’s Day sprinkles
Directions :
- Divide the Chex cereal into two separate bowls.
- Melt the pink candy melt with 1 tsp oil in 30-second increments in the microwave until fully melted.
- Pour over Chex mix, gently fold until it is coated in that mixture. If the candy melts seize and harden, microwave for 15 seconds then stir to coat again.
- Place the mixture in a ziplock bag, add 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and shake to coat. Pour onto a wax paper-lined baking sheet and set aside.
- Repeat with the red candy melts, oil, and leftover Chex cereal. Coat with powdered sugar and place on wax paper-lined baking sheet.
- Let the muddy buddies set for 30 minutes then mix in the M&M’s and sprinkles.
- Serve in a bowl for a party or pack in small bags as gifts.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 5-7 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
how to serve Valentine’s Day Muddy Buddies
Serve in a large bowl for a party. For gifts, pack in small clear bags and tie with ribbon. This snack also works in small paper cups for guests. For more fun holiday dessert ideas, you can look at other simple options like holiday dessert ideas for inspiration.
how to store Valentine’s Day Muddy Buddies
Keep the mix in an airtight container at room temperature for 5–7 days. Do not put in a warm spot where the candy melts can soften. You can freeze the mix for up to 1 month; thaw at room temperature before opening the container.
tips to make Valentine’s Day Muddy Buddies
- Melt candy melts slowly in short bursts and stir to avoid burning.
- Use a light touch when folding to keep cereal from breaking.
- If candy hardens, microwave briefly and stir until smooth.
- Cool the coated cereal fully before adding M&M’s so they keep their shape.
- Use ziplock bags to coat with powdered sugar — they work fast and clean.
variation (if any)
- Use white candy melts and add pink and red food coloring for custom shades.
- Swap M&M’s for chocolate chips or heart-shaped candies.
- Add a dash of vanilla or almond extract to melted candy for extra flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use different cereal instead of Chex?
A: Yes. Use any light, crunchy cereal. The texture may change a little.
Q: How do I keep the M&M’s from melting?
A: Let the coated cereal cool fully before adding M&M’s. Mix gently.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Store in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze up to a month.
Q: Can I skip the powdered sugar?
A: You can skip it, but powdered sugar gives the classic "muddy buddy" look and light sweetness.
Q: Are there nut-free options?
A: Yes. Use nut-free candy and check labels on M&M’s to be sure they meet your needs.
Conclusion
For a simple, colorful Valentine’s treat that everyone will enjoy, try this Muddy Buddies recipe and share it at parties or as small gifts. For another take on this idea and more details, see Valentine’s Day Muddy Buddies /Puppy Chow – Lifestyle of a Foodie.
Valentine’s Day Muddy Buddies
Ingredients
Method
- Divide the Chex cereal into two separate bowls.
- Melt the pink candy melt with 1 tsp oil in 30-second increments in the microwave until fully melted.
- Pour over Chex mix, gently fold until it is coated in that mixture.
- If the candy melts seize and harden, microwave for 15 seconds then stir to coat again.
- Place the mixture in a ziplock bag, add 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and shake to coat. Pour onto a wax paper-lined baking sheet and set aside.
- Repeat with the red candy melts, oil, and leftover Chex cereal. Coat with powdered sugar and place on wax paper-lined baking sheet.
- Let the muddy buddies set for 30 minutes then mix in the M&M's and sprinkles.
- Serve in a large bowl for a party or pack in small bags as gifts.
- For more fun holiday dessert ideas, consider other simple options.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 5-7 days or freeze for up to 1 month.