Muddy buddies (aka puppy chow)

Step 1

Measure cereal into a large bowl. Set aside. Divide powdered sugar between two ziplock bags, adding 1 cup to each bag.* Set aside.

Step 2

In a saucepan add chocolate chips, butter, and peanut butter (and salt, if using unsalted butter) and cook over medium-low heat, stirring, until melted and smooth. (Don’t over-heat it–just warm it until melted and smooth.)

Step 3

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4

Pour over the prepared cereal in the bowl and stir to coat evenly. Allow to cool for a few minutes.

Step 5

Divide coated cereal between the two ziplock bags with powdered sugar, seal the bag and shake to coat the cereal.

Step 6

Muddy buddies will stay fresh for up to 1 week stored in an air-tight container at room temperature or can be frozen for up to 2 months.