If you are looking for a sweet treat that brings together fudgy brownies, irresistible peanut butter, and a crunchy cereal topping, you have to try the Muddy Buddy Brownies Recipe. This decadent dessert combines the rich, chocolatey goodness of classic brownies with a luscious peanut butter and chocolate coating mixed with Rice Chex and powdered sugar for that perfect balance between crunchy and creamy. Whether you’re serving it at a party, or just craving something indulgent at home, these brownies will quickly become a beloved favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in creating the delightful Muddy Buddy Brownies Recipe. From the fudgy brownie base to the sweet and nutty topping, these simple pantry staples come together beautifully to offer a flavor and texture that’s truly special.
- Brownie mix: The foundation of this dessert, providing that rich, chocolaty flavor and moist texture.
- Eggs, oil, and water: Typically called for by the brownie mix package, these help bind and add moisture to the batter.
- Creamy peanut butter: Adds a smooth, nutty richness to the topping that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melted into the peanut butter, they create a luscious, chocolatey coating.
- Rice Chex cereal: Offers a light, crispy crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the soft brownies.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and lightly dusts the cereal topping, giving a classic “muddy buddy” finish.
How to Make Muddy Buddy Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Brownies
Start by preheating your oven and preparing the brownie batter according to the package directions—usually including eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter evenly into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch pan. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan to ensure the topping sticks well later.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Chocolate Mixture
While the brownies are cooling, combine the creamy peanut butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. This blend will coat your cereal and create the satisfying gooey topping that makes these brownies unique.
Step 3: Coat the Rice Chex and Add Powdered Sugar
In a large bowl, gently fold the Rice Chex cereal into the peanut butter-chocolate mixture until everything is evenly coated. Then sprinkle in the powdered sugar and toss carefully to cover every bit of the cereal. This step adds just the right amount of sweetness and the signature muddy buddy look.
Step 4: Assemble and Chill
Once your brownies have cooled completely, spread the muddy buddy topping evenly over the surface. Press it down slightly so it adheres nicely. Place the entire pan in the refrigerator for 15 to 30 minutes to allow the topping to set. After chilling, slice into squares and get ready to indulge!
How to Serve Muddy Buddy Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, drizzle melted white chocolate over the top or sprinkle colorful mini M&Ms for a fun pop of color. These garnishes add a playful vibe that turns this dessert from everyday treat to party showstopper.
Side Dishes
Serve Muddy Buddy Brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the rich flavors. Fresh berries or a glass of cold milk also complement the deep chocolate and peanut butter notes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the brownies in a clear glass trifle dish with whipped cream and chopped nuts for a stunning dessert presentation. Or wrap individual pieces in parchment paper tied with a ribbon—ideal for gift-giving or sharing at gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Muddy Buddy Brownies Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps maintain their fresh taste and perfect texture. If your kitchen is warm, storing them in the fridge is a great option to keep the topping firm.
Freezing
These brownies freeze beautifully. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will stay delicious for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature or in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
Reheat brownies gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to warm them up without melting the topping too much. Enjoy warm for a melt-in-your-mouth experience that tastes like freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownies instead of a mix for the Muddy Buddy Brownies Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer homemade brownies, just bake your favorite recipe and let them cool completely before adding the peanut butter-cereal topping. The homemade touch can make the dessert even more special.
Is it possible to substitute the Rice Chex cereal?
Yes! You can substitute Rice Chex with other crispy cereals like corn flakes or even gluten-free options depending on your preference. Just keep in mind that texture plays a big role in creating the classic crunchy contrast.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Creamy peanut butter blends more smoothly with the chocolate chips, but if you love some extra texture, crunchy peanut butter can work. Just expect the topping to be slightly more textured and less smooth.
Do I have to refrigerate the brownies after assembly?
Refrigerating helps the topping set properly so it holds together nicely when cut. If you skip chilling, the topping might be softer or gooier, which some may still enjoy, but chilling is recommended for best results.
How long will these brownies stay fresh?
At room temperature in an airtight container, Muddy Buddy Brownies Recipe lasts about three days. Refrigerated, they can keep fresh up to a week, making it easy to prepare ahead of time for parties or treats.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about the combination of fudgy brownies and a crunchy peanut butter-chocolate topping that makes the Muddy Buddy Brownies Recipe unforgettable. Perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself, this dessert promises to delight anyone lucky enough to try it. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a sweet staple that friends and family will ask for again and again.
Print
Muddy Buddy Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Muddy Buddy Brownies are a delicious and fun twist on classic brownies, topped with a crunchy, peanut butter and chocolate coated Rice Chex cereal layer dusted with powdered sugar. This easy-to-make dessert combines rich, fudgy brownies with sweet and salty flavors, perfect for parties or family treats.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1 box (18–19 oz) brownie mix, plus ingredients listed on the box (usually eggs, oil, and water)
Muddy Buddy Topping
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 cups Rice Chex cereal
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare Brownies: Preheat the oven according to the brownie mix package instructions. Prepare the brownie batter by combining the mix with required ingredients (usually eggs, oil, and water). Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking pan and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remove from oven and allow the brownies to cool completely.
- Melt Peanut Butter and Chocolate: While the brownies are cooling, place the peanut butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
- Coat Cereal: In a large bowl, gently mix the Rice Chex cereal with the melted peanut butter and chocolate mixture until the cereal is evenly coated. Then sprinkle the powdered sugar over the coated cereal and toss gently to ensure full coverage.
- Assemble Topping: Once the brownies have fully cooled, evenly spread the muddy buddy cereal topping over the surface of the brownies. Press down slightly to help the topping adhere properly.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled brownies for 15–30 minutes to allow the topping to set firmly. After chilling, slice into 16 squares and serve.
Notes
- For an extra special treat, drizzle melted white chocolate over the top or sprinkle mini M&Ms before chilling.
- You can substitute the boxed brownie mix with your favorite homemade brownie recipe if preferred.
- Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate to keep fresh longer.
