Red, White, and Blue Muddy Buddies Recipe
Introduction
Red, White, and Blue Muddy Buddies are a festive and fun snack perfect for celebrations or anytime you want a sweet, crunchy treat. This colorful twist on the classic puppy chow combines patriotic colors with the irresistible crunch of Chex cereal and the sweetness of candy melts. It’s quick to make and sure to impress.

Ingredients
- 6 cups Chex cereal (divided)
- 1 cup red candy melts
- 1 cup blue candy melts
- 1 cup white candy melts
- 1 cup powdered sugar (divided)
- 1 cup red, white, and blue M&Ms
Instructions
- Step 1: Separate the Chex cereal into three medium bowls, placing 2 cups in each bowl.
- Step 2: Place the red candy melts in a small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at half power in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth.
- Step 3: Pour the melted red candy melts over the cereal in one of the bowls and gently toss to coat the cereal evenly.
- Step 4: Transfer the coated cereal into a gallon-sized ziplock bag and add 1/3 cup of powdered sugar. Seal the bag and shake well to coat the cereal thoroughly.
- Step 5: Spread the coated cereal onto a cookie sheet to cool and set.
- Step 6: Repeat steps 2 through 5 using the blue candy melts and then the white candy melts with the other bowls of cereal.
- Step 7: Once all the coated cereals are cool, combine them in a large bowl. Add the red, white, and blue M&Ms and stir to mix evenly.
Tips & Variations
- To avoid burning the candy melts, use short microwave intervals and stir well between each heating.
- Try swapping M&Ms for other colorful candies or sprinkles to suit different occasions.
- For extra crunch, add chopped nuts after coating the cereal.
- Use white chocolate chips instead of white candy melts for a different texture and flavor.
Storage
Store the finished Muddy Buddies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Keep them away from humidity to maintain their crispness. If desired, gently warm before serving to soften the candy coating slightly, but they are best enjoyed fresh.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cereal?
Yes, you can substitute Chex with other cereals like Crispix or Rice Chex for a similar texture, but avoid cereals that may get soggy easily.
What if I don’t have candy melts?
You can use colored white chocolate chips or melt colored candy coating found in baking aisles as alternatives to candy melts.
Print
Red, White, and Blue Muddy Buddies Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Celebrate patriotic flavors with this festive Red, White, and Blue Muddy Buddies recipe. Combining crunchy Chex cereal coated in smooth, colorful candy melts and dusted with powdered sugar, then mixed with red, white, and blue M&Ms for a sweet, crunchy treat perfect for parties, holidays, or snacking anytime.
Ingredients
Cereal
- 6 cups Chex cereal (divided into 3 portions of 2 cups each)
Candy Coatings
- 1 cup red candy melts
- 1 cup blue candy melts
- 1 cup white candy melts
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar (divided into three 1/3 cup portions)
- 1 cup red, white, and blue M&Ms
Instructions
- Separate the Cereal: Divide the 6 cups of Chex cereal equally into three medium bowls, each with 2 cups, preparing for each color coating.
- Melt Red Candy: Place the red candy melts in a small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at half power in 30-second increments, stirring after each interval until completely smooth and melted.
- Coat with Red Candy: Pour the melted red candy melts over the cereal in one bowl, tossing gently to ensure all pieces are evenly coated.
- Powder the Red Cereal: Transfer the candy-coated cereal into a gallon-sized ziplock bag, add 1/3 cup powdered sugar, and shake thoroughly to coat the cereal fully.
- Spread and Cool: Empty the coated cereal onto a cookie sheet to cool and set.
- Repeat for Blue and White: Repeat the melting, coating, powdering, and cooling steps using the blue candy melts with the second bowl of cereal, and the white candy melts with the third bowl.
- Combine and Add M&Ms: Once all three colors are set and cooled, mix them together in a large bowl. Stir in 1 cup of red, white, and blue M&Ms to complete the festive Muddy Buddies.
Notes
- Microwave times may vary; watch closely when melting candy melts to avoid burning.
- Use gentle tossing to prevent breaking the cereal pieces while coating.
- Allow candy-coated cereal to cool completely on the cookie sheet to harden before mixing.
- Store Muddy Buddies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunch.
- Can be customized with different candy colors or mix-ins for other occasions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes (including melting and coating time)
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Muddy Buddies, Chex Mix, Patriotic Snack, Candy Coated Cereal, Red White Blue Treat, Holiday Snack

