Banana Bread Muddy Buddies Recipe
Ingredients:
- 6 cups cinnamon rice cereal squares, such as Rice Chex
- 1 (14 ounce) bag white chocolate chips, such as Ghirardelli
- 1 (3.4 ounce) package banana cream instant pudding and pie filling, such as Jell-O
- 2 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Directions:
- Start by gathering all your ingredients and placing the cereal squares into a large glass bowl. Set it aside for now.
- Next, take the white chocolate chips and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high, stirring every 30 seconds, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. This should take about 1 to 1 1/2 minutes.
- Once melted, drizzle the chocolate mixture over the cereal. Use your hands to gently toss the mixture until the cereal is evenly coated with the smooth chocolate.
- Add the banana cream pudding mix, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg to the cereal mixture. Continue tossing until everything is evenly coated, making sure no large clumps remain.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
| Amount Per Serving | Calories |
|---|---|
| Calories | 603 |
| Total Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 13g |
| Cholesterol | 15mg |
| Sodium | 129mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 92g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Total Sugars | 41g |
| Protein | 9g |
| Vitamin C | 2mg |
| Calcium | 184mg |
| Iron | 1mg |
| Potassium | 340mg |
Each serving provides 603 calories, with a balance of 22g fat, 92g carbohydrates, and 9g protein.

The Story Behind Banana Bread Muddy Buddies
Banana Bread Muddy Buddies are a modern twist on two beloved American treats: classic banana bread and the snack mix known as Muddy Buddies (also called Puppy Chow). The original Muddy Buddies recipe emerged in the mid-20th century, becoming popular for its simplicity and indulgent flavor. By combining it with the warm, comforting taste of banana bread, this version transforms a nostalgic snack into a dessert-inspired treat that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Regional Variations
This snack has strong roots in American cuisine, particularly in the Midwest and Southern regions, where banana bread has long been a staple for home baking. In these areas, Muddy Buddies are often customized with local flavors such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or even pecans. Some regional adaptations incorporate different cereals or chocolate types, reflecting local preferences and seasonal ingredients.
How It Differs from Similar Snacks
While traditional Muddy Buddies are made with chocolate, peanut butter, and powdered sugar, the banana bread version stands out due to the inclusion of banana cream pudding and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. This creates a more aromatic, dessert-like profile that mimics the flavor of banana bread while maintaining the crunchy, bite-sized appeal of classic Muddy Buddies.
Typical Serving Occasions
Banana Bread Muddy Buddies are versatile and can be served at a variety of events. They are popular at holiday gatherings, birthday parties, and casual snack tables. Many people enjoy them as an afternoon treat with coffee or tea, or as a sweet addition to a movie night. Due to their portability and minimal preparation, they are often a favorite for potlucks and school events.
Fun and Interesting Facts
- The combination of banana bread and Muddy Buddies was first popularized through food blogs and social media, illustrating how traditional recipes evolve in the digital age.
- The use of banana cream pudding mix not only adds flavor but also helps coat the cereal evenly, creating the signature muddy texture without clumping excessively.
- This snack has inspired numerous variations, including chocolate-banana, peanut butter-banana, and even gluten-free versions, showcasing its flexibility.
- Despite its dessert-like flavor, Banana Bread Muddy Buddies are typically consumed as a snack, highlighting how modern snacking often blends sweet and crunchy elements.