Monster Munch

Our cul-de-sac is throwing a little block party this weekend. Because I can't resist playing Hostess, I've, of course, made a little treat for everyone to enjoy around a firepit out on the driveway.

Monster Munch is like Puppy Chow on steroids. You've got the classic chocolate-peanut butter coated rice cereal. But I've also taken the liberty of mixing in crunchy pretzel sticks and salty peanuts for added texture and intrigue. But I didn't stop there! Because of the proximity to Halloween, I thought it only fitting to toss some candy and cookies into the mix. So I've crushed up some Oreos, tossed in a few mini chocolate chip cookies and sprinkled over some Peanut Butter M&Ms. You could take a few liberties and mix in some candy corn, chocolate-covered raisins, or Kit-Kat Minis... you're only limited by your imagination.

This batch will make 13 spooky servings. You can serve it in a big ol' bowl or take the time as I have to portion into individual baggies to make for easy sharing and snacking while we enjoy the Fall evening together.

Monster Munch

Ingredients

· 1 cup semi sweet chocolate chips

· ½ cup creamy peanut butter

· Pinch of salt

· 7 cups rice Chex cereal

· 2 cups pretzel sticks, crushed

· ½ cup salted peanuts

· 1 ½ cup powdered sugar

· 1 cup M&Ms (regular, peanut or peanut butter)

· 1 cup mini or crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos)

· 1 cup mini or crushed chocolate chip cookies (like Chips Ahoy)

Add the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and salt to a microwave safe bowl or measuring cup. Microwave in 30 second increments until the chocolate is melted and smooth; stir every 30 seconds.

Combine the rice cereal, pretzel sticks and peanuts in a large mixing bowl. Pour over the chocolate-peanut butter mixture. Stir the mixture until the cereal, pretzels and peanuts are evenly coated in the chocolate. Sprinkle over the powdered sugar. Stir the mixture until the cereal, pretzels and peanuts are evenly coated in powdered sugar.

Add the M&Ms, chocolate sandwich cookies, and chocolate chip cookies to the bowl. Stir until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Transfer to one gallon sized Ziploc bag or individual sandwich baggies until ready to serve.

Makes 13 spooky cups

Gluten Free Friendly!

Oreo makes a gluten free version of their chocolate sandwich cookie that is just a tasty as the original. I also enjoy Partake’s mini chocolate chip cookies in this recipe.