Butterfinger Muddy Buddies

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s delicious and oh-so-easy to make, you’ve landed in the right spot! Butterfinger Muddy Buddies are a delightful blend of crunchy, chocolaty, and nutty goodness. This recipe has been a staple in my house for years, and every time I whip it up, it brings back warm memories of family gatherings and cozy movie nights. Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight snack or planning a fun get-together with friends, these treats are sure to please!

What makes this recipe even better is how simple it is—perfect for kids to help with, too! Just imagine the smiles when you serve these irresistible Butterfinger Muddy Buddies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you can whip up this tasty treat without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Everyone loves getting their hands sticky while making these together!
• Great for Gatherings: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a fun movie night at home.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare these ahead of time and store them for later snacking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy ingredients for this recipe; just some simple and wholesome items that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Treats

• 6 C. Corn or Rice Chex
• 8 oz. semi-sweet baking chocolate
• 3/4 C. creamy peanut butter
• 16 fun-sized Butterfinger bars (divided)
• 1 C. powdered sugar (divided)

Variations

One of the best things about Butterfinger Muddy Buddies is how flexible the recipe is! You can easily adjust it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas:

• Try Different Chocolates: Swap semi-sweet chocolate for dark or milk chocolate if you prefer.
• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped peanuts or almonds for an extra crunch.
• Mix Up the Candies: Use other candy bars instead of Butterfinger for a unique twist each time.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Make sure to use gluten-free certified Chex cereal for a worry-free treat.

How to Make Butterfinger Muddy Buddies

Step 1: Melt the Chocolate and Peanut Butter

Start by combining your semi-sweet baking chocolate and creamy peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in short bursts of 20-30 seconds, stirring in between until everything is melted and smooth. This step is crucial because it creates the luscious coating that will hold all those delicious flavors together!

Step 2: Prepare the Chex

In a large mixing bowl, pour in your Corn or Rice Chex cereal. Once your chocolate-peanut butter mixture is ready, pour it over the cereal gently. Use a spatula to fold everything together carefully so each piece gets coated without breaking apart.

Step 3: Add Butterfinger Bars

Now comes the fun part! Take your fun-sized Butterfinger bars and chop them into small pieces (don’t worry if they’re not perfect!). Fold them into your coated Chex mixture. This step adds that signature Butterfinger crunch and flavor that makes these muddy buddies so special.

Step 4: Coat with Powdered Sugar

Grab your powdered sugar and place half of it into a large zip-top bag. Add your coated Chex mixture into the bag, seal it up tight, and shake gently until everything is evenly coated with sweetness. This not only adds flavor but also keeps everything from sticking together!

Step 5: Let It Cool

Spread your Butterfinger Muddy Buddies onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool completely. Allowing them to set will help them maintain their shape and crunchiness.

And there you have it! A simple yet scrumptious recipe that’s bound to be a hit at any occasion! Enjoy making these delightful treats!

Pro Tips for Making Butterfinger Muddy Buddies

Creating the perfect Butterfinger Muddy Buddies is all about the little details, so here are some expert tips to ensure your treat turns out amazing every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your Chex cereal and Butterfinger bars are fresh for the best flavor and texture. Stale ingredients can lead to a less enjoyable snacking experience.

• Melt chocolate slowly: When melting semi-sweet baking chocolate, do so over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave. This prevents burning and ensures a smooth, glossy finish.

• Chill for better crunch: After coating the Chex mixture in powdered sugar, consider chilling your Butterfinger Muddy Buddies in the fridge for 30 minutes. This helps them set and enhances their crunchiness.

• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to add additional ingredients like chopped nuts or other candy pieces to customize your Muddy Buddies. This adds texture and flavor variety to each bite!

• Store properly: Keep your Butterfinger Muddy Buddies in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep them fresh for longer and maintain their delightful crunch.

How to Serve Butterfinger Muddy Buddies

Butterfinger Muddy Buddies are not just a delicious snack; they also make for a fun presentation! Here are some creative ways to serve them at your next gathering or cozy movie night.

Garnishes

• Chopped peanuts: Sprinkle some chopped peanuts on top of your Muddy Buddies for an added crunch and nutty flavor that complements the peanut butter perfectly.

• Drizzle of chocolate: A light drizzle of melted chocolate over the top not only makes them look extra tempting but also enhances the rich chocolate flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fruit platter: Fresh fruits like strawberries, bananas, or apple slices offer a refreshing contrast to the sweet and crunchy Muddy Buddies, making it a balanced snack option.

• Veggie sticks with hummus: Crisp veggies such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers paired with creamy hummus create a healthy side that balances out the sweetness of your treat.

• Popcorn: A bowl of plain or lightly salted popcorn makes for a classic side that’s easy to munch on between bites of your decadent Muddy Buddies.

• Cheese platter: A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory counterpoint to the sweetness of Butterfinger Muddy Buddies, creating an appealing snack spread that’s great for sharing.

Enjoy these delightful treats with friends and family—they’re sure to become a favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Butterfinger Muddy Buddies recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a delicious treat ahead of time. Whether you’re planning for a party, a movie night, or just want to have something sweet on hand, these tasty bites store well and are easy to enjoy later.

Storing Leftovers

• Store your Butterfinger Muddy Buddies in an airtight container.
• Keep them at room temperature for up to one week.
• If you’re in a humid climate, consider refrigerating them to maintain crunchiness.

Freezing

• For longer storage, you can freeze the Butterfinger Muddy Buddies.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring they are well-sealed.
• They can be frozen for up to three months; just let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat these treats; they are best enjoyed at room temperature.
• If they’ve been refrigerated, allow them to sit out for about 15 minutes before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up while making your Butterfinger Muddy Buddies.

Can I use other cereals instead of Chex?

Absolutely! While Corn or Rice Chex works perfectly, feel free to substitute with your favorite cereal. Just ensure it’s similar in texture for the best results.

How do I make Butterfinger Muddy Buddies vegan?

To make these Butterfinger Muddy Buddies vegan, simply substitute the creamy peanut butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free chocolate.

What should I do if my chocolate seized?

If your chocolate seizes while melting, try adding a small amount of coconut oil or vegetable oil and gently stirring until it smooths out again.

Can I use different candy bars instead of Butterfinger?

Yes! You can replace the Butterfinger bars with any other candy bar you like. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change accordingly.

How long do Butterfinger Muddy Buddies last?

When stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container, they can last up to one week or three months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making these Butterfinger Muddy Buddies as I am! This recipe captures the perfect balance of crunch and sweetness that will surely delight both kids and adults alike. Enjoy creating this delicious treat for yourself or to share with loved ones. Happy snacking!