Weight Watchers Fall/Halloween Buddy Mix
Makes: 12 servings
WW Points: Approx. 5-6 points per serving (depending on your plan)
Ingredients:
6 cups Chex rice cereal (use reduced-sugar or lower-fat version if available)
4 tbsp light butter (instead of a full stick)
1/4 cup powdered peanut butter (like PB2) mixed with 1 tbsp water (instead of 1/2 cup peanut butter)
1/4 cup peanut butter chips (instead of 6 oz)
1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (instead of 6 oz)
1/2 cup powdered sugar (instead of 3 cups)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup candy corn (optional, for less points)
1/4 cup mini M&Ms
1/4 cup Rolo minis (optional, for fewer points)
Directions:
Melt the Mix:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the light butter, powdered peanut butter mixture, peanut butter chips, and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until everything is melted and smooth.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Coat the Cereal:
Add the Chex cereal to a large mixing bowl.
Pour the melted peanut butter and chocolate mixture over the cereal and gently toss to coat all of the cereal evenly.
Coat with Powdered Sugar:
Divide the powdered sugar into two gallon-sized zip lock bags.
Add half of the coated cereal to each bag, seal, and shake until the cereal is well coated with the powdered sugar.
Mix in Candies:
Pour the cereal mixture back into the large bowl.
Gently toss in the candy corn, mini M&Ms, and Rolo candies, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Serve and Enjoy:
Store the Buddy Mix in an airtight container, and enjoy it as a fall or Halloween-themed snack!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 1/2 cup serving):
Calories: ~175-190
Protein: 2g
Carbs: 28g
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 12g
Tips & Benefits:
Lower Points: By reducing the amount of peanut butter, chocolate chips, and butter, this version significantly lowers the points. Using powdered peanut butter also keeps the rich flavor while cutting down fat.
Sugar Reduction: Cutting the powdered sugar from 3 cups to 1/2 cup reduces the sugar content and overall calories without sacrificing too much sweetness.
Smaller Portions: Use smaller candy pieces like mini M&Ms or chopped Rolo minis to keep portions reasonable while still getting that indulgent feel.
Customize Candy: You can adjust the type of candy added to further lower the points. Consider swapping out some of the higher-sugar candies for sugar-free or lower-sugar alternatives.
Add Healthy Crunch: Mix in some unsweetened coconut flakes, almonds, or sunflower seeds to increase fiber and healthy fats while keeping points manageable.
Benefits:
Portion-Controlled Treat: Buddy mix is already designed to be served in small amounts, which helps control portion sizes. This is great for enjoying a sweet snack while staying within points.
Rich Flavor, Fewer Calories: By using lighter butter and powdered peanut butter, you get the same rich flavors without the added fat and calories.
Festive Fun: The mix is perfect for parties, fall gatherings, or Halloween celebrations and can be enjoyed by everyone while being mindful of points.
Balanced Treat: This version of the mix provides a good balance of sweet and salty flavors, with some fiber and protein from the cereal and peanut butter to help keep you fuller longer.
This lightened-up recipe lets you enjoy the festive flavors of the Fall/Halloween Buddy Mix without blowing your Weight Watchers points!