Description

These Salted Caramel Muddy Buddies are the perfect mix of crispy, crunchy, salty, and sweet. Coated in caramel, tossed in powdered sugar, and finished with a pinch of sea salt — they’re addictive in the best way. Great for parties, movie nights, or edible gifts!

Ingredients

6 cups rice cereal squares (like Chex)
1 cup caramel chips (or soft caramels, unwrapped)
2 tbsp heavy cream (if using soft caramels)
1/2 cup white chocolate chips
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp sea salt (plus more for sprinkling)
1 1/4 cups powdered sugar

Optional Add-ins (after coating):

Mini pretzels
Roasted salted peanuts or pecans
Mini chocolate chips
Toffee bits

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Instructions

Prep the cereal:
Pour the rice cereal into a large mixing bowl. Set aside.
Melt the caramel:
If using caramel chips, melt them in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. If using soft caramels, melt them with the heavy cream in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until smooth.
Add chocolate & vanilla:
Stir in the white chocolate chips while the caramel is still warm until melted and smooth. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt.
Coat the cereal:
Pour the caramel mixture over the cereal. Gently fold until every piece is coated — be patient and use a spatula to avoid crushing the cereal.
Powdered sugar time:
Add the powdered sugar to a large zip-top bag or a lidded container. Add the coated cereal and shake it up until fully coated.
Finish with salt:
Spread muddy buddies on a baking sheet to cool. While still slightly tacky, sprinkle a little extra sea salt on top for that sweet-salty pop.
Add mix-ins (optional):
Once cooled, stir in any extras like pretzels or nuts for more texture and flavor.

Notes

Make sure the caramel coating is warm but not too hot when adding to the cereal — you don’t want to crush it or melt it.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Makes a great gift in mason jars or treat bags — just tie it up with ribbon!