Butterfinger Puppy Chow Recipe

If you’re looking for a snack that hits all the right notes with every crunchy, sweet, and peanut buttery bite, then you absolutely have to try this Butterfinger Puppy Chow. This playful twist on a classic munchie mix combines the irresistible flavors of Butterfinger candy bars with the satisfying crunch of Rice Chex cereal, all coated in a luscious chocolate-peanut butter blend dusted with sugary goodness. It’s the kind of treat that’s perfect for movie nights, parties, or any time you need a little comfort snack that feels like a celebration in your mouth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key, but don’t worry—this list is refreshingly simple! Each element plays a vital role in creating the texture, flavor balance, and that unmistakable Butterfinger Puppy Chow magic you’ll fall in love with.

• 7 cups Rice Chex Cereal: Offers a light and crispy base that’s perfect for coating and crunching.
• 1 cup semi sweet chocolate chips: Melts into a rich, smooth coating that wraps each piece in chocolatey goodness.
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter: Brings creamy texture and a nutty flavor that’s essential to Puppy Chow.
• ¼ cup salted butter: Adds a silky richness and just a touch of salt to balance the sweetness perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm, sweet aroma.
• 18 fun size Butterfinger candy bars: Their crunchy, peanut buttery layers are crushed into the mix with 15 and 3 left chunkier for garnish.
• 1 ¼ cups powdered sugar (sifted): The final dusting that gives Puppy Chow its signature sweet coating and delightful texture.

How to Make Butterfinger Puppy Chow

Step 1: Prep the Candy Bars and Cereal

Start by finely crushing 15 pieces of the fun size Butterfinger bars into small shards—these will blend seamlessly into the mix to sprinkle surprise crunch throughout. Set aside the remaining three pieces roughly chopped for a rustic, tasty garnish later. Pour your Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl; this will be the sturdy base that soaks up all those incredible flavors.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine your semi sweet chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, and salted butter. Stir gently and continuously to ensure everything melts together smoothly without burning. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This luscious blend is the heart of your Butterfinger Puppy Chow, promising rich, nutty, chocolatey delight in every bite.

Step 3: Combine and Coat

Pour the warm chocolate and peanut butter mixture evenly over the Rice Chex cereal. Toss gently with a spatula or large spoon to coat every piece without crushing the cereal. Now sprinkle in the crushed Butterfinger candy shards and fold them in so they distribute evenly throughout. This step gives your Puppy Chow its stellar crunch and that unmistakable Butterfinger flavor throughout.

Step 4: Add the Powdered Sugar

Transfer the coated cereal mixture into a large sealable plastic bag (or use a large bowl if you prefer). Add the sifted powdered sugar, seal tightly, and shake vigorously. This ensures each piece is dusted with a light, sweet coating without clumping, making your Butterfinger Puppy Chow irresistibly powdery and fun to eat.

How to Serve Butterfinger Puppy Chow

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation, sprinkle the roughly chopped Butterfinger pieces over the top just before serving. They provide a delightful textural contrast and a visually tempting pop of candy pieces that scream indulgence. For a bit of flair, consider adding a few mini chocolate chips or a drizzle of melted peanut butter on top.

Side Dishes

Butterfinger Puppy Chow is fantastic on its own as a solo snack, but it also pairs wonderfully with simple sides like fresh fruit slices or salty nuts to balance the sweetness. If you’re hosting, try serving it alongside soft pretzels or popcorn for a playful mix of salty and sweet kernels.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the bowl! Serve Butterfinger Puppy Chow in festive paper cones for parties, in mason jars for grab-and-go snack packs, or layered in clear glass parfait cups with whipped cream for a decadent dessert twist. It’s a versatile treat that’s as fun to give as it is to receive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Butterfinger Puppy Chow keeps beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Just make sure to keep it away from heat or humidity to maintain that perfect crisp crunch and prevent the chocolate coating from melting.

Freezing

If you want to keep your Puppy Chow fresh for longer, freezing is a great option. Place it in a sealed freezer-safe bag or container, and it will hold its flavor and texture for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow it to come back to room temperature before opening to avoid condensation.

Reheating

This snack doesn’t really need reheating, but if you want to soften the chocolate a bit, give it a very brief zap in the microwave (5 to 10 seconds) just until slightly warm. Be careful not to melt it too much, or you’ll lose the crunchy texture that makes Butterfinger Puppy Chow so addictive.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cereal instead of Rice Chex?

Absolutely! While Rice Chex provides a perfect light crunch and neutral flavor, you can experiment with other cereals like Corn Chex or even crispy oat cereals. Just make sure the cereal you choose isn’t overly sweet, so it balances nicely with the chocolate and peanut butter coating.

What if I don’t have Butterfinger bars—can I substitute?

If Butterfinger bars aren’t available, similar peanut butter and brittle candies like Butterfingers’ close cousins or any crunchy peanut butter chocolate bars can work in a pinch. However, using genuine Butterfinger bars results in the best authentic Butterfinger Puppy Chow taste.

Is this recipe safe for kids? Are there any allergens?

Butterfinger Puppy Chow is kid-friendly, but keep in mind it contains peanuts, chocolate, and gluten if you aren’t using gluten-free Chex cereal. Always check ingredient labels and consider any allergies before serving to little ones.

How do I get crunchy, not soggy Puppy Chow?

The key is gentle mixing and immediate coating with powdered sugar after combining. Also, ensure the cereal is fully dry when starting, and avoid storing it in humid or warm places to keep that crisp texture intact.

Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

You can make some swaps to suit dietary needs: use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips, and make sure your peanut butter has no added dairy. However, finding vegan Butterfinger bars might be tricky—consider using vegan-friendly candy for a similar effect.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you make this Butterfinger Puppy Chow, it will quickly become a go-to snack that delights kids and adults alike. The combination of chocolate, peanut butter, and those buttery crispy candy bits creates a snack that’s truly next-level. Give it a try next time you want to treat yourself or impress your guests with a homemade sweet that’s as fun to eat as it is to make!

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