If you love a sweet, crunchy snack that bursts with chocolate and peanut butter goodness, you are going to fall head over heels for this Butterfinger Puppy Chow Recipe. This irresistible treat combines crispy rice cereal coated in a luscious blend of melted chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and buttery goodness, all sprinkled with powdered sugar and crunchy crushed Butterfinger candy bars. It’s a perfect snack for parties, movie nights, or whenever you need a little indulgent pick-me-up that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the best Butterfinger Puppy Chow Recipe requires simple ingredients that are easy to find but pack a punch in flavor and texture. Each element plays an essential role, from the crunchy cereal base to the rich chocolate coating and the unforgettable Butterfinger crunch that makes this snack truly shine.
- 5 cups rice cereal squares: The crispy foundation that soaks up all the delicious coating while staying satisfyingly crunchy.
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: Adds a smooth, nutty richness that ties all the flavors together perfectly.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Provides richness and helps create that silky, melt-in-your-mouth coating.
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips: Brings that deep, chocolatey sweetness that’s irresistible.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A subtle boost that enhances every flavor note and adds warmth.
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar: The final dusting that adds a sweet, snowy finish and balances the chocolate and peanut butter.
- 1 cup crushed Butterfinger candy bars: Brings crunchy, buttery, and caramelized candy pieces that make this puppy chow unforgettable.
How to Make Butterfinger Puppy Chow Recipe
Step 1: Melt and Mix the Chocolate and Peanut Butter
Start by combining the creamy peanut butter, unsalted butter, and semisweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring after each interval, until the mixture is perfectly smooth and glossy. Stir in the vanilla extract to add an extra layer of flavor that will make the whole snack come alive.
Step 2: Coat the Cereal with the Chocolate Mixture
Pour your crispy rice cereal into a large mixing bowl. Now, slowly drizzle that warm chocolate-peanut butter blend over the cereal. Gently fold the mixture to coat every single piece of cereal. The key is to be gentle so that the cereal stays crunchy while getting covered in that silky chocolate mixture.
Step 3: Add the Butterfinger Pieces
Once your cereal is evenly coated, stir in the crushed Butterfinger candy bars. These candy bits add that signature buttery crunch and melty caramel flavor that makes this puppy chow stand out from all the rest.
Step 4: Powdered Sugar Coating
Transfer the coated cereal and Butterfinger mixture into a large zip-top bag. Add the powdered sugar, seal the bag tightly, and shake vigorously until every piece is lightly dusted. This sweet coating not only adds flavor but helps keep the snack mix from being sticky to the touch.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Spread the finished puppy chow onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spreading it out evenly to cool and let the coating set up perfectly. This step ensures a firm yet bite-worthy texture and keeps the chocolate from clumping together.
How to Serve Butterfinger Puppy Chow Recipe
Garnishes
If you want to spruce up your Butterfinger Puppy Chow, try sprinkling extra crushed Butterfinger pieces on top right before serving for an added crunch. A light dusting of sea salt can also elevate the sweetness and balance the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This snack is versatile enough to accompany just about anything! Pair it with a cold glass of milk for a classic combo, or serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream as a crunchy topping that brings texture and flavor. It also shines as a fun party snack or movie treat, no side dishes required.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Butterfinger Puppy Chow Recipe in festive bowls or mason jars tied with a ribbon for gifts or party favors. You can also layer it in clear cups with whipped cream or pudding for a fun dessert parfait twist. The bright colors and textures make it eye-catching and perfect for celebrations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Butterfinger Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and crunchy for about a week, which is perfect for nibbling on throughout the week or sharing with friends and family.
Freezing
If you want to keep your puppy chow fresh even longer, wrapping it tightly and freezing in a sealed container works well. When you’re ready to enjoy, just allow it to thaw at room temperature and enjoy the same crispy taste you love.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake snack, you won’t need to reheat it. If the chocolate coating feels a bit stiff after storage, simply letting it sit at room temperature for a little while will bring back that perfect chewiness and chocolatey smoothness.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add an extra layer of texture to your Butterfinger Puppy Chow Recipe, giving it a delightful crunch inside the coating. Just be sure to mix thoroughly so the coating stays smooth.
What if I don’t have Butterfinger bars?
If you can’t find Butterfinger candy bars, peanut butter or chocolate-covered toffee bits work as a tasty substitute. Keep in mind that the signature buttery crunch is what makes this recipe truly special, so try to get the Candy bars if possible.
Is this snack gluten-free?
The basic ingredients like rice cereal and chocolate chips are often gluten-free, but it’s important to check the labels on products like the cereal and Butterfinger bars to be certain if you have gluten sensitivities or allergies.
Can I make this recipe without chocolate chips?
You could try replacing chocolate chips with white chocolate or peanut butter chips for a twist, but the deep chocolate flavor is key to the classic Butterfinger Puppy Chow Recipe, so keep that in mind before swapping.
How long does it take to make this snack?
This recipe is incredibly quick—taking only about 12 minutes from start to finish. It’s super handy when you want a fast, crowd-pleasing treat without much fuss.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a crunchy, chocolatey, peanut buttery snack that’s simple to make and absolutely delicious, the Butterfinger Puppy Chow Recipe is your new best friend. This treat is perfect for sharing, gifting, or just indulging in a cozy moment at home. Give it a go—you’ll be amazed at how quickly it disappears!
Print
Butterfinger Puppy Chow Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Snack, Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Butterfinger Puppy Chow is a delicious and easy-to-make snack mix that combines crunchy rice cereal with a rich blend of peanut butter, chocolate, and crushed Butterfinger candy bars. Coated in powdered sugar, this sweet treat is perfect for parties, dessert, or anytime you crave a chocolaty peanut butter snack with a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 5 cups rice cereal squares (like Chex)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup crushed Butterfinger candy bars (about 4 fun-size bars)
Instructions
- Melt Chocolate Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the peanut butter, unsalted butter, and chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
- Coat Cereal: Place the rice cereal squares into a large mixing bowl. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal, and gently stir to ensure that all the cereal pieces are evenly coated with the chocolate mixture.
- Add Butterfinger Pieces: Add the crushed Butterfinger candy bars to the coated cereal and gently stir again to distribute the candy pieces throughout the mixture.
- Coat with Powdered Sugar: Transfer the mixture into a large zip-top bag. Add the powdered sugar, seal the bag securely, and shake vigorously until all the cereal pieces are thoroughly coated with the sugar.
- Set and Store: Spread the coated puppy chow onto a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool and set. Once cool, store the snack in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, maintaining freshness and crunch.
Notes
- To intensify the Butterfinger flavor, add extra crushed candy bars after coating with powdered sugar.
- For a firmer texture, chill the puppy chow in the refrigerator before serving.
