Muddy Snowballs : A Sweet, Crunchy Twist on Classic Krispie Treats

If you’re on the hunt for an easy, no-bake dessert that’s crunchy, chocolatey, and fun to eat, look no further than Muddy Snowballs. These delicious little treats are a cross between crispy Rice Krispie Treats, gooey marshmallow cookies, and classic “muddy buddy” snack mix—all rolled into cute bite-sized snowballs.

Covered in powdered sugar and bursting with sweet flavor from milk chocolate chips, these yummy cookies are the perfect addition to your holiday dessert table, after-school snacks, or any time you need a quick sweet fix.

If you’ve enjoyed festive no-bake treats like Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles or Halloween Brownies, these Muddy Snowballs will definitely earn a spot in your regular dessert rotation.

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What Are Muddy Snowballs? A Fun Twist on a Classic Snowballs Recipe

Unlike traditional buttery snowball cookies or Russian tea cakes, Muddy Snowballs take the concept in a playful, no-bake direction. They combine melted chocolate, peanut butter, cereal crunch, and marshmallows—rolled together into round “snowballs” and coated with powdered sugar.

This hybrid snowballs recipe brings the nostalgia of childhood snacks and the visual charm of snowy holiday cookies into one seriously addictive dessert. Plus, they’re no-bake, freezer-friendly, and ideal for gifting.

These treats are perfect for cookie exchanges, classroom parties, or anyone looking to add something fun and unexpected to their holiday baking.

Ingredients Needed for Muddy Snowballs

One of the best things about Muddy Snowballs is that they’re made with pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need to bring them to life:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 (10 oz / 284g) bag mini marshmallows
• 1½ cups (255g) milk chocolate chips
• ½ cup (120g) creamy peanut butter
• 6 cups (170g) Rice Krispies cereal
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, for coating

Optional:

• Holiday sprinkles for extra flair
• A pinch of salt to balance sweetness

This combination creates the perfect texture and flavor—crispy, chewy, chocolatey, and just the right amount of sweet.

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Essential Tools to Make These Yummy Cookies Perfectly

Before getting started, grab these kitchen tools to keep things simple and mess-free:

• Large saucepan or pot
• Mixing spoon or spatula (silicone works best)
• Measuring cups
• Baking sheet or tray
• Parchment paper or wax paper
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon
• Shallow bowl (for powdered sugar coating)

No stand mixers or baking required—just a stovetop and your favorite spatula.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Muddy Snowballs

Making Muddy Snowballs is super simple and comes together in just a few steps:

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add marshmallows and stir constantly until fully melted and smooth.
3. Stir in chocolate chips and peanut butter until melted and fully incorporated.
4. Remove from heat, then gently fold in the Rice Krispies until completely coated.
5. Let the mixture cool slightly, about 5–10 minutes (you want it cool enough to handle but still warm to mold).
6. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions, roll into balls, and place them on a parchment-lined tray.
7. Coat in powdered sugar by rolling each ball in a shallow bowl of sugar until fully covered.
8. Add sprinkles if using, then allow to set at room temperature for 20–30 minutes.

They’ll firm up beautifully and be ready to serve or store.

Pro Tips for the Best Krispie Treats with Chocolate

• Use fresh marshmallows for the best melt and gooey consistency.
• Don’t skip the peanut butter—it adds depth and richness, but you can substitute with almond or sunflower butter if needed.
• Add chocolate chips off heat to prevent scorching.
• Let them cool slightly before rolling or the mixture may be too sticky to handle.
• Use gloves or lightly greased hands to roll for less mess.

Looking for another easy no-bake snack? You might also love these No-Bake Cheerio and Peanut Butter Bars.

Creative Add-ins and Sprinkle Cookie Variations

Want to give your Muddy Snowballs some seasonal flair or personal twist? Try these fun ideas:

• Holiday sprinkles for a colorful Christmas or New Year look
• Mini M&Ms for a pop of color and crunch
• Crushed candy canes for a peppermint version
• Cinnamon mixed into the powdered sugar for a warm, spiced effect
• Sea salt flakes sprinkled on top for that sweet-and-salty finish

These variations make them feel even more festive and unique—ideal for gift boxes or cookie platters.

How to Serve and Present These Sweet Treats

Presentation turns these simple sweet treats into showstoppers. Here are some ideas:

• Place each snowball in a mini cupcake liner
• Serve on a platter dusted with extra powdered sugar “snow”
• Wrap in clear treat bags with ribbon for party favors
• Layer in cookie tins with parchment paper between each layer

They pair beautifully with other holiday baking like cookies, bars, and chocolate-dipped pretzels.

How to Store and Freeze Muddy Snowballs

These treats keep well, making them ideal for prepping ahead:

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Refrigerator: Keeps for 5–6 days (texture will be firmer)
• Freezer: Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Store up to 6 weeks. Thaw at room temp before serving

Keep parchment between layers to prevent sticking.

What to Pair with These Cookie Desserts

Here are a few tasty ideas to serve with your cookie desserts:

• Hot cocoa or chocolate milk
• Chai or cinnamon tea
• Fresh fruit for a sweet and tangy contrast
• Mini pancake cereal for a fun dessert board—try it here

They also work perfectly on a cookie exchange tray alongside brownies, fudge, and festive bites.

Avoid These Common Mistakes When Making Muddy Snowballs

Even simple recipes can go sideways without a few helpful warnings:

• Overheating the chocolate: Causes seizing—always melt gently.
• Handling too soon: If it’s too hot, it’ll burn your hands. If too cold, it’ll be hard to shape.
• Skipping the chill time: If not set properly, they won’t hold their shape.
• Using old cereal: It won’t give that classic crispy texture.

With these in mind, your Krispie treats will turn out perfect every time.

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FAQs About Muddy Snowballs and Krispie Cookie Recipes

Can I make these without peanut butter?
Yes! Substitute with almond butter, sunflower butter, or cookie butter.

Are these gluten-free?
Check the cereal and chocolate—some brands are, but others aren’t.

Can I double the batch?
Absolutely. Just use a very large pot to mix everything evenly.

Can I skip the powdered sugar?
Sure! You can roll them in cocoa powder, shredded coconut, or leave them plain.

How long do they last?
About 5 days refrigerated, or up to 6 weeks frozen.

Final Thoughts: The Perfect No-Bake Snowballs Recipe for Every Season

If you love quick, satisfying, and utterly addictive treats, Muddy Snowballs deserve a spot on your dessert table. They bring together the best parts of sprinkle cookies, Krispie treats, and classic chocolate-peanut butter combos—all rolled into adorable, snow-dusted bites.

Whether you’re prepping for a holiday party, planning homemade gifts, or simply want a fun treat to enjoy with your family, these no-bake snowballs are always a hit. They’re simple enough for kids to help with, yet tasty enough to impress any guest.

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