Thin Mint Muddy Buddies Recipe

Name: Thin Mint Muddy Buddies
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 3/4 cups finely crushed thin mint cookies; 2 tablespoons chopped Andes mints; 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/4 teaspoon mint extract; 6 cups crispy cereal squares, such as Chex™ cereal; 3/4 cups confectioner’s sugar

Ingredients

3/4 cups finely crushed thin mint cookies
2 tablespoons chopped creme de menthe candy (such as Andes mints)
1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 teaspoon mint extract
6 cups crispy cereal squares (such as Chex cereal)
3/4 cups confectioners sugar

Directions

Place thin mint cookies into the jar of a blender or food processor. Pulse until the cookies are finely crushed, yielding 3/4 cup of crumbs. Set aside.
Chop the Andes mints into small pieces and set them aside for later use.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine semisweet chocolate chips, butter, and mint extract. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir. Continue microwaving in 15-second intervals, stirring well after each, until the mixture becomes smooth and fully melted.
In a large mixing bowl, pour the melted chocolate mixture over the crispy cereal squares. Stir gently to coat the cereal evenly with the chocolate.
Transfer the coated cereal into a large resealable bag. Add the crushed thin mint cookies and confectioners sugar. Seal the bag and shake vigorously to ensure the cereal is fully coated in the sugar and cookie mixture.
Spread the coated cereal onto a baking sheet in an even layer. Sprinkle the chopped Andes mints over the top of the cereal for an extra minty touch.
Allow the mixture to cool and set. Once fully cooled, transfer the cereal snack into an airtight for storage.

Cooks Note

You can also use store-bought mint chocolate chips if preferred.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	341
Total Fat	13g (17% DV)
Saturated Fat	8g (39% DV)
Cholesterol	10mg (3% DV)
Sodium	41mg (2% DV)
Total Carbohydrates	54g (19% DV)
Dietary Fiber	2g (6% DV)
Total Sugars	25g
Protein	4g (7% DV)
Vitamin C	0mg (0% DV)
Calcium	18mg (1% DV)
Iron	1mg (6% DV)
Potassium	118mg (3% DV)

The Thin Mint Muddy Buddies recipe is a delightful variation of the traditional "Muddy Buddies" or "Puppy Chow," a beloved snack mix in the United States. The original recipe, which combines chocolate, peanut butter, and powdered sugar-coated cereal, has been a favorite for decades. The Thin Mint version, however, adds a refreshing twist by incorporating the flavors of mint and chocolate, inspired by the famous Girl Scout Thin Mint cookies. This treat is an ideal blend of crunchy, chocolaty, and minty, making it irresistible for snack lovers.

Origin and History of Muddy Buddies

The original Muddy Buddies, also known as Puppy Chow, was created in the 1950s and quickly became a staple in American kitchens, especially for parties and family gatherings. The classic recipe was popularized by Chex cereal, who marketed it as a quick and easy snack for busy households. Over time, various adaptations of the recipe emerged, incorporating different flavors and ingredients to suit diverse tastes. The Thin Mint Muddy Buddies are a modern twist on this classic snack, incorporating the much-loved mint-chocolate combination, which has become a hallmark of the Girl Scout cookie season.

Regional Variations and Customizations

While Muddy Buddies are beloved throughout the United States, regional variations often reflect local tastes. For instance, in the southern U.S., recipes might incorporate more peanut butter or caramel, while in the northeast, some versions include crushed nuts or other cookie types. The Thin Mint version, however, stands out due to its seasonal appeal, with Girl Scout cookies being sold annually during the winter months. The addition of Andes mints and Thin Mints in this recipe is a perfect nod to the mint-chocolate lovers, particularly those who wait eagerly for the Girl Scout cookie season.

How Thin Mint Muddy Buddies Differ from Other Similar Treats

What sets Thin Mint Muddy Buddies apart from other snack mixes is the infusion of mint flavor through both the Thin Mint cookies and Andes mints. Traditional Muddy Buddies rely on a chocolate coating, but the Thin Mint variety adds an extra layer of freshness and minty coolness. The use of mint extract further enhances this distinct flavor, making it a refreshing alternative to the classic chocolate and peanut butter combination that defines the original recipe. Unlike other dessert mixes, Thin Mint Muddy Buddies also incorporate cookies, giving it a more textured and flavorful experience compared to standard snack mixes.

Where Are Thin Mint Muddy Buddies Usually Served?

Thin Mint Muddy Buddies are perfect for a variety of occasions, especially during the holiday season and the Girl Scout cookie sales period. They are commonly served at parties, family gatherings, and bake sales, often in large bowls or resealable bags. Their crunchy texture and sweet, minty flavor make them ideal for serving alongside other finger foods at social events. Whether as a party snack or a gift in a decorative jar, this treat is sure to impress guests and friends alike. It's also an excellent choice for sharing with colleagues or as a fun after-school snack for kids.

Fun Facts About Thin Mint Muddy Buddies

Girl Scout Thin Mint cookies are one of the most popular cookies in the Girl Scout cookie lineup, known for their crisp, chocolaty cookie coated with a mint-flavored chocolate layer.
The Muddy Buddies recipe has evolved significantly over the years, with many creative versions now available. The Thin Mint variation is just one example of how the classic recipe has been adapted to suit different flavors.
Thin Mint Muddy Buddies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week, making them a convenient snack for busy days or gatherings.
Another fun fact: Thin Mint Muddy Buddies are often a favorite among mint chocolate fans, and they can even be customized by adding other mint-flavored candies or chocolate chips to the mix!

Conclusion

The Thin Mint Muddy Buddies recipe is a perfect combination of sweet, crunchy, and minty flavors that elevate the classic Muddy Buddies snack. Whether youre preparing them for a party, as a gift, or just for a treat at home, theyre sure to be a hit. With the perfect balance of Girl Scout Thin Mints and Andes mints, this snack offers a unique twist that makes it stand out from other variations. So why not give it a try and enjoy a deliciously minty treat?

FAQ about Thin Mint Muddy Buddies Recipe

Once prepared, store Thin Mint Muddy Buddies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 1-2 weeks. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, which will help preserve their crispiness for a longer period.

Yes, Thin Mint Muddy Buddies can be made ahead of time. In fact, they often taste even better after a day or two, as the flavors have time to meld together. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container to keep them crisp.

Yes, you can experiment with different types of cookies. If you don't have Thin Mints, try other mint-flavored cookies, or even chocolate or vanilla sandwich cookies. Keep in mind, though, that the mint flavor will be less prominent with non-mint cookies.

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, Thin Mint Muddy Buddies should stay fresh for about 1-2 weeks. If refrigerated, they can last up to 3 weeks.

Yes, you can freeze Thin Mint Muddy Buddies for up to 3 months. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To serve, simply allow them to thaw at room temperature.

Yes, you can use other cereals in place of Chex™. Rice Krispies or other crispy cereal squares work well too. Just make sure the cereal is crunchy to provide the desired texture.

If you don’t have mint extract, you can either leave it out or substitute it with peppermint oil or peppermint extract. Be careful with peppermint oil, as it's much stronger than mint extract, so use it sparingly (a few drops should suffice).

If you don’t have Andes mints, you can substitute them with any other chocolate-mint candy, like Peppermint Patties, or simply use more crushed Thin Mints for a stronger cookie flavor. You can also omit them altogether if desired.

Yes, you can substitute dark chocolate chips for semisweet chocolate chips. Dark chocolate will add a more intense, less sweet flavor, which can be a great complement to the mint.

The recipe relies on the sweetness of the chocolate, sugar, and cookies to balance the mint flavor. Reducing the sugar might alter the taste and texture. However, you can experiment with using less confectioner’s sugar if you're looking to cut back on sweetness.