Christmas Cookie Bonanza: Muddy Buddies

OK, so Muddy Buddies aren't exactly cookies, but they're still holiday fare, in my book. Some of my favorite holiday fare, actually. I've heard these yummy snacks also called dog food, but I can't eat something I call dog food, so Muddy Buddies works just fine. I happened to notice this recipe on the box of Chex a few years ago, decided to try it out, and I've been making them ever since. They're so tasty, you can't eat just one handful. These also wrap up really nice in a some cellophane with some pretty ribbon.

Chex Muddy Buddies

Printer-friendly recipe

9 cups Corn Chex, Rice Chex, Wheat Chex and Chocolate Chex (combination of your liking)
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

1/2 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup butter
1 tsp vanilla
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

1. Into a large bowl, measure cereal and set aside.
2. In a 1-quart microwaveable bowl, microwave chocolate chips, peanut butter and butter uncovered on High for 1 minute; stir. Microwave about 30 seconds longer or until mixture can be stirred smooth. Stir in vanilla. Pour mixture over cereal, stirring until evenly coated. Pour into 2-gallon resealable food-storage plastic bag.
3. Add powdered sugar. Seal bag; shake until well coated. (You may want to double bag, just in case, because wow, the powdered sugar really will make a monster mess if there's a hole in your bag!) Spread on waxed paper to cool. Store in airtight container in refrigerator.