I love making this Sweetheart Valentine’s Buddies recipe when I want a festive, no-bake snack that feels special but takes very little effort. The combination of crunchy cereal, creamy candy coating, and a hint of strawberry flavor makes this treat feel perfect for Valentine’s Day or anytime I want something sweet and colorful to share.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy this recipe because it comes together quickly and doesn’t require an oven. I like how the flavors balance each other, with the sweetness of the almond bark and candy melts paired with the light crunch of Chex cereal. I also appreciate how customizable it is, since I can easily swap colors or mix-ins depending on the occasion.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
5 oz white almond bark
5 oz red candy melts
1 tsp shortening
5 cups Chex cereal
1 cup strawberry cake mix
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 package Valentine’s M&M’s
Directions
I start by placing the white almond bark, red candy melts, and shortening into a microwave-safe bowl. I microwave the mixture in short intervals, stirring each time, until it is completely melted and smooth.
I put the Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl and pour the melted candy mixture over it. I gently stir until all the cereal is evenly coated.
I add the strawberry cake mix and powdered sugar, then toss everything together until the cereal is fully covered. I spread the mixture out onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and let it set for about 20 to 30 minutes.
Once everything has cooled and hardened, I mix in the Valentine’s M&M’s and break the buddies into bite-sized pieces.
Servings And Timing
I usually get about 10 to 12 servings from this recipe.
Prep time is around 15 minutes, and setting time takes about 30 minutes, so the total time is roughly 45 minutes.
Storage/Reheating
I store Sweetheart Valentine’s Buddies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. I don’t recommend reheating this snack, since the candy coating can melt and lose its texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cereal?
I sometimes swap Chex cereal with another similar rice or corn cereal, but I prefer Chex because it holds the coating well.
Do I need to bake the cake mix first?
I personally use heat-treated cake mix to be safe, especially when serving this to kids.
Can I change the colors for another holiday?
I like switching out the candy melt colors and M&M’s for different holidays such as Christmas, Easter, or Halloween.
How do I prevent the cereal from breaking?
I always stir gently and slowly so the cereal stays intact and crunchy.
Can I make this ahead of time?
I often make this a day or two in advance, and it still tastes fresh when stored properly.
Conclusion
I find Sweetheart Valentine’s Buddies to be one of the easiest and most cheerful treats to make for Valentine’s Day. I love how simple it is, how fun it looks, and how quickly it disappears once I set it out. It’s a recipe I come back to whenever I want a sweet snack that feels festive and homemade.
Sweetheart Valentine’s Buddies are a festive, no-bake snack mix made with Chex cereal coated in a creamy strawberry-flavored candy mixture. Tossed with powdered sugar, strawberry cake mix, and Valentine’s M&M’s, it’s a perfect sweet treat to share on special occasions.
Total Time:45 minutes (includes setting time)
Yield:10 to 12 servings
Ingredients
5 oz white almond bark
5 oz red candy melts
1 tsp shortening
5 cups Chex cereal
1 cup strawberry cake mix (heat-treated)
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 package Valentine’s M&M’s
Instructions
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white almond bark, red candy melts, and shortening. Microwave in short intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.
Place Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl. Pour the melted candy mixture over the cereal and stir gently until evenly coated.
Add strawberry cake mix and powdered sugar. Toss until the cereal is well coated.
Spread the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and let set for 20–30 minutes.
Once cooled and hardened, mix in Valentine’s M&M’s and break into bite-sized pieces.
Notes
Use heat-treated cake mix for safety when serving to kids.
Swap candy melt colors and M&M’s for different holidays.
