Movies on a budget

Matt and I love to go to the movies.

Unfortunately for us, we also love to eat. And pay rent. And have lights and stuff. For us, going to the movies is a $40-plus experience. Add it up:

Tickets: $16

Popcorn: $6

Two giant sodas: $10

Candy from Safeway: $10

And that's if we don't get any other treats at the theatre! My stepson is left out of that total as well.

The "Transformers" sequel comes out this weekend, and so hitting the theatres is unavoidable. Popcorn and sodas purchased at the theatre is non-negotiable to my husband and stepson (I prefer to carry in my own Jolly Time 99% Fat Free Kettle Corn because it tastes better for fewer calories), so that expense stays.

But I can do something about the sweet treats. I mulled this thought over as I was enjoying a miniature Kit Kat bar and Reese's Peanut Butter Cup.

What's the perfect movie candy? Something chocolaty, with peanut butter and a little bit of cookie flavor. My eyes widened and I turned to Google after the perfect thought hit me:

Muddy Buddies!

Those delicious, chocolate-peanut butter Chex creations would be the perfect accompaniment to greasy, salty movie popcorn. As a bonus, I've got all ingredients on hand (most people do, if they're like me and buy chocolate chips and peanut butter in bulk from Costco) except the Chex cereal. So for $5, I can whip up a great movie snack that will (hopefully) please my whole family!

Here's the recipe:

Muddy Buddies

9 cups Chex cereal

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

1/2 cup peanut butter

1/4 cup butter or margarine

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

Measure cereal into large bowl. Let aside.

In 1-quart microwavable bowl, microwave* chocolate chips, peanut butter and butter uncovered on High for 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.

*I've always done this on the stove top. But it's hard to argue with the ease of microwaving!