If you are looking for a snack that perfectly balances sweet, crunchy, and irresistibly indulgent flavors, then you will absolutely love this Butterfinger Puppy Chow Recipe. Imagine crispy rice cereal coated with a luscious blend of melted chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and chopped Butterfinger candy bars, all dusted generously with powdered sugar. It’s a party snack, an after-school treat, or simply that go-to comfort food that disappears faster than you can say “more, please!” You’re about to discover a hands-down favorite that’s ridiculously simple yet wonderfully decadent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Butterfinger Puppy Chow Recipe lies in its simplicity—the ingredients are straightforward but each plays a crucial role in delivering the final texture, flavor, and irresistible look of this snack. From creamy peanut butter adding richness, to crunchy cereal providing the perfect bite, every component counts.
- 6 cups rice Chex cereal: The crispy base that soaks up the chocolate and peanut butter while keeping the snack light and crunchy.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter: Adds a smooth, nutty depth that complements the sweetness perfectly.
- 1 cup Butterfinger candy bars, chopped: Brings that signature crispy, buttery crunch and a burst of caramelized flavor.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts down to create a rich, velvety coating that binds everything together.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Adds silkiness and helps meld the chocolate and peanut butter into a smooth coating.
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar: The final touch that transforms the mixture into a sweet, snowy treat that’s impossible to resist.
How to Make Butterfinger Puppy Chow Recipe
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate and Peanut Butter Mixture
Start by combining the peanut butter, chocolate chips, and butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat this mix in short 30-second bursts, stirring after each round until everything is fully melted and the texture is luxuriously smooth. Then fold in those chopped Butterfinger candy bars—they will add delightful crunch and bursts of caramel flavor right inside the coating. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect silky coating that clings to each cereal piece.
Step 2: Coat the Cereal
Pour your crispy rice Chex cereal into a large bowl and drizzle the warm chocolate-peanut butter-Butterfinger mixture over the top. Gently fold and toss everything together, making sure every single piece is evenly enveloped with that luscious coating. Take your time here—full coverage is what makes this snack truly classic and satisfying.
Step 3: Coat with Powdered Sugar
Transfer the coated cereal into a large resealable plastic bag or a container with a tight lid. Add the powdered sugar, seal it up, and shake vigorously until all the cereal pieces are dusted in a snowy white layer of sweetness. This candy-dusted finish not only enhances flavor but also keeps the puppy chow from sticking together in clumps.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
Spread the coated snack evenly over a parchment-lined baking sheet or large flat surface. Let it cool until set, allowing the chocolate to solidify just enough for easy snacking. Once cooled, dive in immediately or store in an airtight container to enjoy throughout the week. The anticipation just makes your first bite even sweeter!
How to Serve Butterfinger Puppy Chow Recipe
Garnishes
While the Butterfinger Puppy Chow is a crowd-pleaser on its own, you can instantly elevate it with thoughtful garnishes. A light sprinkle of sea salt adds an unexpected contrast, or toss in some mini chocolate chips for extra melty bites. Toasted chopped peanuts or pretzel pieces can add even more texture and flavor to delight your guests.
Side Dishes
This snack pairs beautifully with a glass of cold milk, a hot cup of coffee, or even a creamy vanilla milkshake. For party vibes, place bowls around alongside fresh fruit platters, popcorn, or other sweet and salty finger foods. The contrast between Puppy Chow and fresh, juicy fruit can make your snack table a real hit.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation makes all the difference! Serve the Butterfinger Puppy Chow Recipe in cute mason jars tied with colorful ribbons for gift giving or party favors. Layer it in clear parfait glasses with whipped cream or pudding for a fun and playful dessert. You could even fill small decorative treat bags to bring along on road trips or as school snacks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Butterfinger Puppy Chow fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays crunchy and delicious for up to a week, making it perfect for making ahead of time for gatherings or just to satisfy sweet cravings throughout the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the puppy chow by placing it in a tightly sealed freezer bag or container. When you want a quick snack, simply thaw it at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Freezing helps preserve the texture and flavor if you’ve made a big batch and want to save some for later.
Reheating
Reheating isn’t necessary for this snack since it’s meant to be enjoyed cool or at room temperature. However, if you want a warm twist, pop a small portion in the microwave for just 10-15 seconds to slightly melt those chocolate bits for gooey goodness—just be careful not to overheat!
FAQs
Can I use other candies besides Butterfinger in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap the Butterfinger bars with other crunchy candy bars like Heath, Skor, or even chopped peanut butter cups for a different flavor profile. Each candy will bring its own unique touch to the puppy chow.
Is it possible to make this Butterfinger Puppy Chow Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just make sure to use a certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal like rice Chex, and check the Butterfinger candy bars ingredient list to ensure they meet gluten-free standards.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
You certainly can! Using crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture and a bit of nutty crunch to the coating, which some people really enjoy. Just note it might make the coating slightly less smooth.
How long does Butterfinger Puppy Chow stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, it will stay fresh and crunchy for up to a week. Beyond that, it might start losing its crispness, so it’s best enjoyed within a few days.
Can I double the recipe for larger batches?
Definitely! This recipe scales up very well. Just be sure to mix the coating thoroughly and coat the cereal evenly for the best results, especially when working with bigger quantities.
Final Thoughts
There is just something so wonderfully nostalgic and satisfying about the Butterfinger Puppy Chow Recipe that makes it a star at any occasion. It’s fast, fun, and combines some of the best classic flavors into one irresistible snack. Whether you’re whipping it up for your family, a party, or just because, I promise you will find yourself reaching for more. Give it a go—you might just discover your new favorite snack!
Print
Butterfinger Puppy Chow Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Butterfinger Puppy Chow is a decadent, crunchy snack combining crispy rice cereal coated in a luscious blend of melted peanut butter, chocolate, and Butterfinger candy pieces, all dusted with powdered sugar for a sweet finish. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or a sweet treat anytime.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups rice Chex cereal (or any other crispy rice cereal)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup Butterfinger candy bars, chopped into small pieces (about 3 full-sized bars)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Melt the chocolate and peanut butter mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the peanut butter, chocolate chips, and unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. Then stir in the chopped Butterfinger pieces until well combined.
- Coat the cereal: Place the rice Chex cereal in a large bowl. Pour the melted chocolate and peanut butter mixture over the cereal and gently toss to evenly coat each piece.
- Coat with powdered sugar: Transfer the coated cereal mixture into a large resealable plastic bag or a container with a tight-fitting lid. Add the powdered sugar, seal the bag or container tightly, and shake vigorously until the cereal is fully coated with powdered sugar.
- Cool and serve: Spread the coated puppy chow onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or clean large surface to let it cool and set. Once cooled, serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to one week.
Notes
- Use creamy peanut butter for the best coating consistency.
- Microwave in short intervals and stir thoroughly to prevent burning the chocolate and butter mixture.
- Make sure to coat the cereal evenly for best texture and flavor.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunchiness.
- Can be customized by substituting Butterfinger with other candy bars like Snickers or Reese’s for variety.
