Salted Caramel Muddy Buddies Recipe

Irresistibly Sweet Salted Caramel Muddy Buddies Recipe

Stumbling upon a salted caramel muddy buddies recipe that instantly sparks joy in your snacking world.

Sweet meets salty in this irresistible treat that promises pure deliciousness.

Crispy Chex cereal coated with rich caramel and a hint of salt creates an addictive munchable delight.

Chocolate lovers and snack enthusiasts will absolutely adore this simple yet decadent creation.

Each crunchy bite delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and savory notes that dance across your taste buds.

Homemade treats like these transform ordinary moments into delightful memories.

This recipe guarantees smiles and happy munching for everyone gathered around.

Grab a handful and let the snacking adventure begin!

Why Salted Caramel Muddy Buddies Are Sweet And Crunchy Bliss

  • Unleash Sweet-Salty Bliss: Experience the ultimate flavor explosion where caramel's rich sweetness perfectly balances crispy sea salt, creating an irresistible snack that tantalizes taste buds with every crunchy bite.
  • Zero-Fuss Treat: Whip up this simple recipe in just minutes without complicated cooking techniques, making it an ideal go-to snack for busy families, last-minute gatherings, or spontaneous movie nights.
  • Kid-Friendly Customization: Transform this classic muddy buddy recipe into a fun family activity where children can help mix ingredients, coat cereal, and sprinkle powdered sugar, turning snack preparation into a delightful bonding experience.
  • Portable Party Pleaser: Pack these addictive treats in small containers for picnics, school lunches, road trips, or office snacks, ensuring a delicious pick-me-up that travels easily and satisfies sudden sweet cravings.

Everything You’ll Need For Salted Caramel Muddy Buddies

Base Ingredient:
  • Rice Chex Cereal: Crunchy base for the muddy buddies, providing a classic texture and neutral flavor perfect for coating.
Coating Ingredients:
  • Chocolate Chips, Butterscotch Chips: Smooth melting chips that create a rich, sweet base for the caramel coating.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth, even coating for the cereal.
Flavoring and Finishing Ingredients:
  • Caramel Sauce: Delivers a deep, sweet caramel flavor that defines the muddy buddies.
  • Powdered Sugar: Provides a light, sweet dusting that helps separate the pieces and adds extra sweetness.
  • Sea Salt: Enhances the caramel flavor with a subtle savory contrast, balancing the overall sweetness.

Simple Steps To Make Salted Caramel Muddy Buddies

Step 1: Prepare Cereal Base

Pour Rice Chex cereal into a spacious mixing bowl, creating a golden canvas for your sweet adventure. Grab a baking sheet and cover it with parchment paper, setting the stage for your delectable treat.

Step 2: Melt Chocolate Magic

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine:
  • Milk chocolate chips
  • Butterscotch chips
  • Salted butter

Microwave in short bursts, stirring between each interval until the mixture transforms into a smooth, glossy river of deliciousness.

Step 3: Create Caramel Drizzle

In a separate saucepan, whisk together:
  • Brown sugar
  • Heavy cream
  • Light corn syrup
  • Sea salt

Simmer the mixture on low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens into a luxurious caramel sauce that will make taste buds dance.

Step 4: Combine Chocolate and Caramel

Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal, then drizzle the warm caramel sauce. Gently fold and coat every single cereal piece, ensuring each morsel is embraced by sweet and salty goodness.

Step 5: Dust with Sweet Powders

Sprinkle over the coated cereal:
  • Powdered sugar
  • Additional sea salt

Toss the mixture until each piece is elegantly covered in a snowy white blanket with subtle salt crystals.

Step 6: Cool and Set

Spread the coated cereal onto the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow it to cool and set at room temperature, letting the flavors meld and the coating harden into a crunchy, addictive treat.

Step 7: Store and Enjoy

Transfer the Salted Caramel Muddy Buddies to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh and irresistible for several days – if they last that long!

Best Tips For Salted Caramel Muddy Buddies

  • Prevent Cereal Clumping: Gently toss the Chex cereal in the large bowl to ensure each piece gets evenly coated with the caramel mixture, avoiding sticky clusters.
  • Smooth Caramel Technique: Melt chocolate and caramel together slowly over low heat, stirring continuously to create a silky, lump-free coating that adheres perfectly to the cereal.
  • Quick Cooling Trick: Spread the coated cereal on the parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer to help it cool and crisp up faster, preventing soggy spots.
  • Storage Savvy: Store the Muddy Buddies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, keeping them crunchy and fresh for snacking.
  • Dietary Swap Option: Use gluten-free Chex cereal and dairy-free chocolate for a delicious alternative that accommodates various dietary needs.

How To Store And Reheat Salted Caramel Muddy Buddies

  • Refrigerate: Store Muddy Buddies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Keep away from direct sunlight and humidity to maintain crispness.
  • Avoid Moisture: Place a paper towel inside the container to absorb excess moisture and prevent the cereal from becoming soggy.
  • Freeze Option: Seal in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 weeks. Thaw at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before enjoying.
  • Quick Refresh: If the mixture loses its crunch, spread on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 250°F for 5 minutes to restore crispy texture.

Great Pairings For Salted Caramel Muddy Buddies

  • Pair with Creamy Coffee Delight: Brew a rich, smooth latte or cappuccino that complements the sweet-salty crunch of the muddy buddies. The warm coffee cuts through the caramel's richness and provides a perfect balance.
  • Match with Chilled Vanilla Milk: Pour ice-cold vanilla milk alongside these treats to enhance the caramel's sweetness. The cool, smooth milk creates a refreshing contrast to the crunchy snack.
  • Serve with Dark Chocolate Red Wine: Select a robust red wine with dark chocolate notes to elevate the caramel flavor profile. The wine's slight tannins beautifully highlight the snack's complex sweet-salty layers.
  • Enjoy with Salted Caramel Ice Cream: Scoop some salted caramel ice cream as a decadent companion that mirrors the muddy buddies' flavor, creating an indulgent dessert experience.

Creative Variations For Salted Caramel Muddy Buddies

  • Chocolate Drizzle Caramel Blast: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over the caramel-coated cereal for an extra rich layer of decadence.
  • Nutty Crunch Sensation: Sprinkle chopped roasted almonds or pecans into the mix for added texture and depth of flavor.
  • Sea Salt Espresso Edge: Dust the coated cereal with finely ground espresso powder and a touch of flaky sea salt to create a sophisticated adult version.
  • Tropical Coconut Escape: Toss shredded toasted coconut into the muddy buddies for a sweet, tropical-inspired transformation that adds crunch and island vibes.

Salted Caramel Muddy Buddies FAQs

  • What makes these Muddy Buddies different from classic chocolate versions?

These Muddy Buddies feature a delicious salted caramel twist, replacing traditional chocolate with a rich, sweet-and-salty caramel coating that gives the snack a gourmet flavor profile.

  • Are Rice Chex the best cereal for this recipe?

Rice Chex works perfectly because its light, crispy texture allows the caramel coating to stick evenly and creates a delightful crunch without becoming soggy or falling apart during mixing.

  • Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Rice Chex is naturally gluten-free, making this recipe an excellent option for people with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Just double-check all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

  • Is this recipe kid-friendly to make?

Absolutely! Muddy Buddies are super easy to prepare, and kids can help with mixing and coating the cereal, making it a fun family cooking activity that doesn’t require advanced culinary skills.

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Salted Caramel Muddy Buddies Recipe

Salted Caramel Muddy Buddies Recipe


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4.8 from 16 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Irresistible Salted Caramel Muddy Buddies deliver a perfect blend of sweet and salty sensations that dance across taste buds. Crisp cereal coated in luscious caramel and powdered sugar creates an addictive snack you won’t be able to resist.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 9 cups (270 g) rice chex cereal
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 cups (250 g) powdered sugar

Caramel Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup (60 ml) water
  • ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream, warmed
  • ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, cubed

Seasoning Ingredients:

  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for sprinkling)

Instructions

  1. Pour the Rice Chex cereal into a spacious, clean mixing vessel, creating a fluffy foundation for the sweet transformation.
  2. Prepare a baking sheet by carefully lining it with parchment paper, establishing a perfect landing zone for the caramel-coated treats.
  3. Melt the chocolate chips and butter together in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring at 30-second intervals until smooth and glossy.
  4. Incorporate the caramel sauce into the melted chocolate mixture, whisking vigorously to create a rich, golden-brown coating that promises decadent flavor.
  5. Drizzle the warm caramel-chocolate blend over the cereal, using a spatula to gently fold and coat each piece thoroughly and evenly.
  6. Sprinkle the powdered sugar and salt over the chocolate-drenched cereal, shaking the bowl or using a large spoon to ensure complete, even coverage.
  7. Transfer the coated cereal onto the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet, spreading it out to allow for cooling and preventing clumping.
  8. Let the Muddy Buddies rest at room temperature until the caramel-chocolate coating sets completely, creating a crisp, irresistible exterior.
  9. Break apart any clusters, then store in an airtight container to maintain maximum crunchiness and flavor.

Notes

  • Ensure the mixing bowl is spacious enough to coat cereal evenly without breaking the delicate pieces.
  • Use fresh, crisp Rice Chex for maximum crunch and better absorption of the sweet caramel coating.
  • Opt for parchment paper with a non-stick surface to prevent the muddy buddies from sticking during cooling.
  • Consider using a wide, shallow bowl for easier mixing and more uniform coverage of the caramel mixture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 295
  • Sugar: 22 g
  • Sodium: 196 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 46 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Jenna Stewart

Jenna Stewart

Head Chef & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Farm-to-Table Cooking; Seasonal Menu Development; Visual Plating Techniques; Flavor Layering and Simple Prep Hacks.

Education

The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

  • Program: Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Hands-on training in classic and modern techniques, global cuisines, and flavor development, combined with real-world experience in restaurant operations, business management, and industry internships.

Jenna Stewart is the inventive spirit behind many of our standout dishes at Pro of Delicious Creations. A proud graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, she built her skills mastering both classic recipes and fresh, modern twists.

Now, Jenna celebrates the beauty of seasonal, local ingredients, often sourced from her garden and nearby markets, to create recipes that are bursting with flavor yet easy to follow. When she’s not experimenting in the kitchen, Jenna loves exploring nature on hikes and discovering new treasures at local co-ops.

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