Caramel Apple Muddy Buddies (Ready-to-Print Version)

Crunchy cereal coated in caramel and cinnamon sugar, packed with cozy fall flavors.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Base

01 - 5 cups Apple Cinnamon Chex cereal (or Apple Jacks or plain Rice Chex)

→ Caramel Coating

02 - 1 cup caramel chips
03 - 2 tablespoons heavy cream

→ Cinnamon Sugar Dusting

04 - 1 cup powdered sugar
05 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

→ Optional Add-ins

06 - Crushed freeze-dried apples
07 - Mini pretzels or marshmallows
08 - Candy corn or autumn M&Ms

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Place 5 cups of Apple Cinnamon Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl.
02 - Combine caramel chips and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is smooth.
03 - Pour the melted caramel over the cereal. Gently fold with a spatula until all pieces are evenly coated.
04 - Mix powdered sugar and ground cinnamon in a large zip-top bag. Add the coated cereal, seal the bag, and shake until fully covered with the cinnamon sugar.
05 - Spread the coated cereal onto a parchment-lined sheet to cool and set. Once cooled, transfer to a bowl or airtight container. Incorporate optional add-ins if desired before serving.

# Handy Tips:

01 - To ensure even coating, stir cereal gently to avoid breakage and shake in smaller batches if necessary. If caramel thickens during preparation, add a splash of heavy cream and warm briefly.
02 - Portion into treat bags, fill mini jars, add to dessert boards, or create a DIY snack station.
03 - Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to one month. Avoid refrigeration to prevent stickiness.
04 - Avoid overheating caramel as it may seize. Use sturdy cereal varieties and ensure sugar coating while cereal is still warm for best adherence.