Measure the cereal into a large bowl and set aside. Then line a baking sheet with wax paper and set aside.
In a microwave-safe medium bowl, microwave the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter for 1 minute then stir. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals and stirring in between until the mixture is completely melted.
Once melted, add vanilla and stir well.
Pour the peanut butter and chocolate mixture over the cereal and gently mix until the cereal is completely coated.
Transfer the mixture to a 2-gallon ziplock bag and add the confectioner’s sugar. Seal the bag and then shake until all the cereal is coated. This is a great place to get the kids involved in the recipe.
Spread the cereal out onto the baking sheet to cool. Sprinkle M and M candies and mini marshmallows throughout the cereal.
Once cool, be sure to store in an airtight container.
Notes
Storage and leftovers – Leftovers never last long in my home! But if you happen to have them, you can keep them for up to a week. Just be sure to allow your Easter muddy buddies to fully cool, then store in an airtight container.
Customize for every occasion – If you have never had muddy buddies, they are amazing and delicious. Basically the perfect snack any time of the day. I like creating different mixes for different holidays! Simply use the same basic recipe and change up the colors of the additional candies you add. Then you have a whole new snack mix for a different holiday or event, like my Muddy Buddy Recipe with Reese's.
Personalize the presentation – Giving these as a gift (or is the Easter Bunny giving them away)? Add an extra personal touch by serving your muddy buddies in a cute DIY mason jar gift. You can even have the kiddos make their own Easter jars to keep their treats in, too!