Muddy Buddy Cookies

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Introduction:

Muddy Buddy Cookies, also known as Puppy Chow Cookies, are a delightful combination of chocolate, peanut butter, and powdered sugar, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. This beloved treat is a favorite among both kids and adults alike, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and crunchiness. In this article, we’ll delve into the delicious world of Muddy Buddy Cookies, exploring their history, ingredients, and how to make them at home.

Muddy Buddy Cookies are a playful variation of the traditional Muddy Buddies snack mix, which consists of Chex cereal coated in a mixture of melted chocolate, peanut butter, butter, and powdered sugar. The cookies take this winning combination to the next level by incorporating it into a handheld treat that’s perfect for snacking on the go or enjoying with a glass of milk.

Ingredients: 

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter softened
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup light brown sugar
1 large egg
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup milk chocolate chips
1/2 teaspoon canola or vegetable oil
1/2 cup powdered sugar

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 375°. Prepare a cookie sheet by lining with parchment paper or spraying with cooking spray.
In the bowl of a stand mixer, or use a handheld blender, blend together the butter, peanut butter, sugar, and brown sugar until creamy and light in color. Add in egg and blend to combine.
In a separate bowl, add the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Stir with a wire whisk. Add to the wet ingredients and blend just until combined.
Shape into 1 inch balls and place on cookie sheet. You can fit 15 to each cookie sheet because they won’t spread much at all.
Bake 8 minutes. Immediately after cooking, take a small cup and gently press down on the cookie. This will flatten them as well as give those pretty crinkly edges.
Let cookies cool on cookie sheet for 10 minutes and then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, Melt chocolate chips and canola oil in microwave-safe bowl for 2 minutes. Stirring every 30 seconds.
Immediately use a spoon and place a small amount of chocolate onto each cookie and spread around.
Let chocolate set and cool completely (about 2 hours) before dusting with powdered sugar. To speed up the chocolate cooling and hardening, place cookies in the fridge or the freezer.

Serving and Storage Tips:

  1. Serving Suggestions:
    • Serve Muddy Buddy Cookies as a delightful snack for parties, gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy at home.
    • Pair them with a glass of cold milk for a classic and satisfying combination that’s perfect for indulging your sweet tooth.
  2. Presentation:
    • Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter or in a bowl for a visually appealing display.
    • Dust the cookies with a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.
  3. Storage Guidelines:
    • Store Muddy Buddy Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness and crunchiness.
    • Avoid storing the cookies in the refrigerator, as this can cause them to become soggy due to the moisture in the fridge.
    • If you live in a warm climate or during hot weather, you can store the cookies in the refrigerator for a short period to prevent the chocolate from melting, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
  4. Long-term Storage:
    • Muddy Buddy Cookies can be stored in the freezer for longer-term storage. Place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
    • When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the cookies at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, or until they reach your desired consistency.
  5. Refreshing Stale Cookies:
    • If your Muddy Buddy Cookies start to lose their crunchiness over time, you can refresh them by placing them on a baking sheet and baking in a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) for 5-10 minutes. Allow them to cool before serving.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Muddy Buddy Cookies remain fresh, delicious, and ready to enjoy whenever the craving strikes. Whether you’re serving them at a party or keeping them on hand for a quick snack, these irresistible cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them.

FAQs:

  1. What are Muddy Buddy Cookies?
    • Muddy Buddy Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Muddy Buddies snack mix, featuring a combination of Chex cereal coated in a mixture of chocolate, peanut butter, and powdered sugar, formed into bite-sized cookies.
  2. Are Muddy Buddy Cookies gluten-free?
    • Yes, Muddy Buddy Cookies can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free rice Chex cereal. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  3. Can I substitute almond butter for peanut butter in Muddy Buddy Cookies?
    • Yes, almond butter can be substituted for peanut butter in Muddy Buddy Cookies for a different flavor profile. However, keep in mind that almond butter may yield slightly different texture and taste results.
  4. How long do Muddy Buddy Cookies stay fresh?
    • When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, Muddy Buddy Cookies can stay fresh for up to one week. Be sure to keep them away from moisture to maintain their crunchiness.
  5. Can I freeze Muddy Buddy Cookies?
    • Yes, Muddy Buddy Cookies can be frozen for longer-term storage. Place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, and they can be stored for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
  6. How can I prevent Muddy Buddy Cookies from becoming soggy?
    • To prevent Muddy Buddy Cookies from becoming soggy, ensure that they are completely cooled before storing them in an airtight container. Additionally, avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as the moisture can cause them to lose their crunchiness.
  7. Can I make Muddy Buddy Cookies without peanut butter?
    • While peanut butter is a key ingredient in traditional Muddy Buddy Cookies, you can experiment with alternative nut or seed butters, such as almond butter or sunflower seed butter, for a different flavor profile.
  8. How can I customize Muddy Buddy Cookies?
    • Muddy Buddy Cookies can be customized with various add-ins such as chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, or even sprinkles to add extra flavor and texture. Get creative and tailor them to your preferences!
  9. Can I use a different type of cereal for Muddy Buddy Cookies?
    • While rice Chex cereal is traditionally used in Muddy Buddy Cookies, you can experiment with other cereals such as corn Chex or even crispy rice cereal for different textures and flavors.
  10. Are Muddy Buddy Cookies suitable for vegans?
    • Muddy Buddy Cookies can be made vegan-friendly by using dairy-free chocolate chips and ensuring that all other ingredients are plant-based. Check labels carefully to verify that all ingredients meet vegan dietary requirements.

Conclusion:

Muddy Buddy Cookies are a delicious twist on a classic treat, combining the irresistible flavors of chocolate and peanut butter with the satisfying crunch of Chex cereal. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a party, a snack, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. So grab your ingredients and get baking – you won’t be disappointed!

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