Christmas Gifts: Muddy Buddies

I'm sure everyone has had this at least once before or at least seen it. If you haven't where have you been? You really need to try this stuff. It's addicting. The kind of thing you sit down and watch a movie with and before the opening credits roll you have already eaten it all. Sweet and a little bit salty from the peanuts, you need to make a lot becuase it will go fast.

Muddy Buddies (aka: Puppy Chow)
* Makes 18 servings (1/2 cup each)

9 cups Chex cereal
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup butter
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

Into large bowl, measure cereal; set aside.

In 1-quart microwavable bowl, microwave chocolate chips, peanut butter and butter uncovered on High 1 minute; stir. Microwave about 30 seconds longer or until mixture can be stirred smooth. Stir in vanilla. Pour mixture over cereal, stirring until evenly coated. Pour into 2-gallon resealable food-storage plastic bag.

Add powdered sugar. Seal bag; shake until well coated. Spread on waxed paper to cool. Store in airtight container in refrigerator.