If you’re looking for a fast, festive, and seriously addictive holiday treat, this Reindeer Chow is exactly what you need! Also known as Muddy Buddies, this sweet snack has been a long-time family favorite — and I’ve given it a cheerful twist with holiday M&Ms to make it even more fun!
We can’t get enough of this stuff — the moment it hits the table, it vanishes like magic. It’s crunchy, chocolatey, and full of that sweet-salty combo we all love.
Let’s make some holiday magic!
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
- Quick and easy to whip up with just a handful of ingredients.
- Great for gifting — just scoop into treat bags and tie with a ribbon!
- Perfect for holiday parties or movie nights — and yes, you can double or triple it for a crowd.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
(Full measurements at the bottom in the recipe card)
- Chex cereal (any variety you like!)
- Holiday-colored M&Ms
- Semi-sweet chocolate (chips or chopped bar)
- Unsalted butter
- Creamy peanut butter
- Vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar
HOW TO MAKE REINDEER CHOW
- Melt the Good Stuff
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the peanut butter and butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring each time. Once smooth, stir in the chocolate bit by bit until fully melted. If needed, give it one more quick microwave zap to smooth it out, then stir in the vanilla. - Coat the Cereal
Pour half of your Chex into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle in half of the warm chocolate-peanut butter mix and gently stir to coat the cereal evenly. - Shake and Sugar
Line one paper grocery bag with another for extra strength. Add ½ cup of powdered sugar, then toss in the chocolate-coated cereal. Fold the top tightly and shake like crazy to coat it all in sugar. Toss in some M&Ms and give it a gentle shake. - Repeat
Repeat the steps above with the remaining cereal and chocolate mix. Once all coated and cooled, store in an airtight container — or better yet, pop it in the freezer for a chilly, crunchy treat!
FESTIVE ADD-INS & VARIATIONS
Want to take your mix to the next level? Here are some tasty add-ons and swaps:
Extra Fun Mix-Ins:
- Pretzel sticks or twists for salty crunch
- White chocolate chips
- Mini marshmallows
- Chopped peanut butter cups
- Chopped nuts
- Drizzled melted chocolate for a glossy finish
Swap It Out:
- Use corn Chex or wheat Chex if you like a different crunch
- Substitute sunflower butter for a nut-free option
- Try milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a sweeter mix
- Use almond extract for a fun flavor twist
STORAGE TIPS
- Room Temperature: Keep in a sealed container for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: This is amazing frozen! Store up to a month (if it lasts that long).
- Fridge: Not necessary unless you prefer it chilled.
TIPS FOR SUCCESS
- Use your favorite Chex cereal — rice, corn, or wheat all work great.
- Customize your M&Ms to fit any holiday — think pink for Valentine’s or pastels for Easter.
- Don’t be afraid to get creative with mix-ins.
- Make a big batch — it disappears fast!
Ready to bring some holiday cheer to your kitchen?
Whip up a batch of this Reindeer Chow and watch it disappear — it’s the ultimate Christmas crowd-pleaser!