In a saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate and butter; add peanut butter and mix until smooth or in a microwavable bowl add chocolate chips, peanut butter and butter. Microwave uncovered on high for 1 minute; stir. Microwave about 30 seconds longer or until mixture can be stirred smooth.
Stir vanilla extract into chocolate mixture. Pour over cereal in a bowl. Stirring until evenly coated. Pour into a 2-gallon resealable food storage plastic bag.
Add powdered sugar into a large plastic bag and shake until well coated.
Spread on waxed paper to cool completely. After it is completely cooled add in M&Ms and peanut butter cups, gently stir to combine.
Store in an airtight container.
Notes
VARIATIONSCereal: We love the rice cereal squares, but you can use other kinds, too! Chex has a variety of flavors so pick your favorite.Chocolate: You can swap the semi-sweet chocolate chips for milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate. If you use white chocolate chips, I recommend melting them on the stove instead of the microwave. They can scorch easier than regular chocolate so melting them slowly usually works better.See also Letter to Santa!Mix-Ins: Any holiday M&Ms that you like will work in this recipe. Or try adding mini marshmallows, other chocolate candies, holiday sprinkles, or even chopped nuts to give it a twist. You could also add some pretzels for a salty-sweet snack mix.