Print

Muddy Buddy Cookies Recipe: Easy Peanut Butter & Crispy Cereal Treats

Muddy Buddy Cookies - featured image

These Muddy Buddy Cookies combine the nostalgic flavors of peanut butter, chocolate, and crispy rice cereal into a soft, chewy cookie with a satisfying crunch. Quick to make and perfect for any occasion, they’re a crowd-pleasing treat inspired by the classic muddy buddies snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup (120g) creamy peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (25g) crispy rice cereal (like Rice Krispies)
  • 3/4 cup (130g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/3 cup (40g) powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. In a large bowl, beat together butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar with a hand mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
  3. Add egg and vanilla extract; mix until just combined, scraping down the sides as needed.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, mixing on low until just combined. Switch to a spatula if needed; do not overmix.
  6. Gently fold in crispy rice cereal and chocolate chips with a spatula, being careful not to crush the cereal.
  7. Scoop dough into 2-tablespoon portions (about 30g each) and roll into balls. Place on prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
  8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden and centers look just set. Do not overbake.
  9. Let cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
  10. Once mostly cool, sift powdered sugar over the tops for a classic muddy buddy finish.
  11. Serve warm for gooey chocolate or let cool for a crispier bite.

Notes

For thicker cookies, chill dough for 30 minutes before baking. Use room temperature ingredients for best results. Gently fold in cereal to maintain crunch. Cookies can be made gluten-free, dairy-free, or nut-free with simple swaps. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: muddy buddy cookies, peanut butter cookies, chocolate cookies, crispy cereal cookies, easy dessert, kid-friendly, party cookies, bake sale, nostalgic treats