Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I rummaged through my pantry, I stumbled upon a hidden treasure: a stash of Butterfinger candy bars just waiting to be transformed into something irresistible. That’s when the idea of making Butterfinger Puppy Chow hit me—a sweet and crunchy snack that’s not only ridiculously easy to whip up but also a sure-fire crowd-pleaser for gatherings and cozy nights in. Imagine the delightful blend of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate, perfectly offset by the signature crunch of Butterfinger. In less than 30 minutes, you can create a holiday treat or everyday indulgence that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Curious to discover how this delightful concoction captures the essence of childhood nostalgia while still feeling like a modern treat? Let’s dive in! Why Is Butterfinger Puppy Chow So Irresistible? Simplicity, making this treat requires just a few pantry staples, making it perfect for busy weekends. Irresistible flavor combinations of peanut butter, chocolate, and Butterfinger create a taste sensation that both children and adults adore. Quick to prepare, you can whip this up in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal last-minute snack or holiday treat. Versatile options allow you to customize with seasonal candies or gluten-free alternatives, ensuring everyone can enjoy it. Serve it in decorative bowls for parties, or wrap it as a delightful gift! Butterfinger Puppy Chow Ingredients • Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth! For the Cereal Base Rice Chex Cereal – Adds essential crunch and structure; certified gluten-free options are available. For the Chocolate Mixture Semisweet Chocolate Chips – Offers a rich chocolate flavor; swap for dark chocolate for a deeper taste. Creamy Peanut Butter – Infuses creaminess and a nutty depth; can be replaced with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free alternative. Unsalted Butter – Enhances the richness of the chocolate blend; use coconut oil for a dairy-free version. Vanilla Extract – Adds a delightful aromatic note; consider using vanilla bean paste for an extra flavor boost. For the Sweet Coating Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and achieves that signature coating; try sugar-free powdered sugar for a lower-sugar option. For the Crunchy Finish Crushed Butterfinger Candy Bars – Introduces a delightful buttery crunch; swap with Reese’s Pieces for a new twist! With these ingredients on hand, you’re just a few steps away from enjoying your very own Butterfinger Puppy Chow—made with love! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butterfinger Puppy Chow Step 1: Prepare the Cereal Base Begin by pouring 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl. Make sure the bowl is spacious enough to allow for easy mixing later on. The cereal should be evenly distributed at the bottom, ready to soak in all the delicious flavors of your Butterfinger Puppy Chow. Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips, 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter, and 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. Heat the mixture in the microwave for 1 minute, stirring halfway through. After removing from the microwave, stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy, adding 15 seconds more if needed for complete melting. Step 3: Add Flavor Enhancements Once your chocolate mixture is silky smooth, mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This aromatic addition transforms the Butterfinger Puppy Chow into a truly tempting treat. Stir well until the vanilla is fully incorporated, ensuring each bite will be delightful. Step 4: Coat the Cereal Now, pour the warm chocolate mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Use a large spatula to gently fold the cereal into the chocolate, ensuring every piece is fully coated. This is where your Butterfinger Puppy Chow really begins to come together—look for a uniform chocolate coverage on the cereal. Step 5: Transfer the Mixture Carefully transfer the chocolate-coated cereal mixture into a large resealable plastic bag. Make sure the bag is large enough to accommodate everything comfortably, leaving some air space for shaking later. Seal it tightly, preventing any spills while you coat it in sweetness. Step 6: Sweeten with Powdered Sugar Add 2 cups of powdered sugar to the bag, sealing it again before shaking vigorously. This is where the magic happens—your Butterfinger Puppy Chow takes on its signature sugary outer layer. Shake for about 30 seconds to ensure every piece is thoroughly coated and sweetened. Step 7: Incorporate Butterfinger Crunch Open the bag and add 1 cup of crushed Butterfinger candy bars. Reseal the bag and give it another good shake, mixing well to combine the Butterfinger pieces with your coated cereal. The combination of flavors and textures should be evident, creating that irresistible crunch. Step 8: Cool Before Serving Spread the Butterfinger Puppy Chow mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow it to cool completely for 15-20 minutes, ensuring it remains crunchy. Once cooled, break it into clusters for delightful snacking! Step 9: Store or Share Store your delicious Butterfinger Puppy Chow in an airtight container, where it can stay fresh for up to a week. Whether you choose to keep it for yourself or share it as a sweet gift, this treat is sure to bring smiles all around! Butterfinger Puppy Chow Variations Customize your Butterfinger Puppy Chow for an even more delightful treat that awakens your taste buds! Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter for a delectable nut-free twist that everyone can enjoy. Dairy-Free: Swap the unsalted butter with coconut oil for a rich dairy-free version that retains all the luscious flavors. Dark Chocolate Delight: Substitute semisweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate for a deep, indulgent flavor that chocolate lovers will adore. Holiday Festivity: Add seasonal M&Ms for a pop of color and festive flair; they make every bite feel like a celebration! Crushed Pretzel Crunch: Incorporate crushed pretzels for an extra crunchy texture that adds a delightful salty-sweet contrast. Butterfinger Twist: Instead of the traditional Butterfinger, mix in crushed Reese’s Pieces for a different yet equally satisfying crunch. Sugar-Free Option: Use sugar-free powdered sugar to lighten things up while still maintaining that signature sweetness. Spicy Heat: For an adventurous twist, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper to the chocolate mixture for a surprising kick that will awaken the senses. Feel free to explore these variations, and don’t hesitate to mix in your favorite flavors. After all, cooking is all about making it your own! And if you’re looking for even more creative sweet snacks, check out our guide on easy homemade treats or dive into delicious ideas for gluten-free desserts. Expert Tips for Making Butterfinger Puppy Chow Even Coating: Ensure all cereal is evenly coated in the chocolate mixture by using a large enough bowl and mixing gently. This prevents sogginess in your Butterfinger Puppy Chow. Flavor Boost: For a bolder peanut butter flavor, consider increasing the peanut butter to 3/4 cup—this will enhance the deliciousness of your treat. Decorative Touch: Add festive M&Ms or seasonal sprinkles to the mix for a vibrant holiday version of your Butterfinger Puppy Chow. Cooling Time: Always allow your mixture to cool completely on a baking sheet, as this is crucial for maintaining that satisfying crunch. Storage Secrets: Keep your Puppy Chow in an airtight container away from moisture to ensure maximum freshness and crunchiness for up to a week. What to Serve with Butterfinger Puppy Chow Transform your delightful Butterfinger Puppy Chow into a full meal experience with these tasty pairings! Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The rich creaminess of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the crunchy texture of the Puppy Chow. Perfect for drizzling with chocolate sauce! Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm salted caramel over your Puppy Chow adds a luxurious touch. The sweet and salty combination is simply divine! Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful, refreshing fruit salad adds a burst of freshness, balancing the sweetness of the Puppy Chow and providing a light counterpart. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: For a party, pair these sweet and salty snacks together. The crunch of pretzels complements the Puppy Chow, creating an irresistible mix of flavors. Sparkling Lemonade: A fizzy drink brightens up the table, making it an excellent choice for summer gatherings or festive occasions with a touch of zest! Mini Cheesecakes: The creamy density of mini cheesecakes creates an upgrade to your gatherings. They are also a festive treat to pair with the sweet, crunchy Puppy Chow. Hot Cocoa with Whipped Cream: Warm up chilly nights with a cozy mug of hot cocoa. Sweet and indulgent, it’s the perfect complement to your delightful Butterfinger Puppy Chow. Nutty Granola Bars: Homemade or store-bought, nutty granola bars offer an earthy crunch that harmonizes with the sweet candy flavors of the Puppy Chow. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy, sweet treats pair excellently with the chocolate and peanut butter notes. They also lend a tropical twist to your dessert spread! Coffee or Latte: A warm cup of coffee or a frothy latte enhances the flavors, providing a comforting atmosphere that feels perfect for sharing this delightful treat. Make Ahead Options Butterfinger Puppy Chow is an excellent option for meal prep, allowing you to save time during busy weekdays! You can prepare the chocolate mixture (1 cup chocolate chips, 1/2 cup peanut butter, and 1/4 cup butter) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can go ahead and crush the Butterfinger candy bars and store them in an airtight container for freshness. When you’re ready to assemble your Butterfinger Puppy Chow, simply reheat the chocolate mixture in the microwave until smooth and proceed with coating the Rice Chex cereal. This way, you’ll achieve just as delicious results with minimal effort, making snack time a breeze! How to Store and Freeze Butterfinger Puppy Chow Airtight Container: Store Butterfinger Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps the crunchy texture intact while maintaining freshness. Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep it in the fridge, where it can last up to 2 weeks, though you may sacrifice a bit of the original crunchiness. Freezer: To freeze, place the Puppy Chow in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. It can last up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying. Serving: When ready to serve, feel free to sprinkle a little extra powdered sugar on top to refresh its sweetness and appeal! Butterfinger Puppy Chow Recipe FAQs What type of Rice Chex should I use for Butterfinger Puppy Chow? You should use Rice Chex cereal that is certified gluten-free if you need a gluten-free option. Look for boxes that clearly indicate they meet this standard on the packaging. This ensures that everyone can enjoy your delicious Butterfinger Puppy Chow without any dietary concerns. How should I store leftovers of Butterfinger Puppy Chow? Store leftover Butterfinger Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For extended freshness, you can refrigerate it for up to 2 weeks, though the crunchiness may slightly diminish. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it, which can preserve its deliciousness for up to 3 months. Always allow it to cool completely before storage to maintain that delightful texture. Can I freeze Butterfinger Puppy Chow? If so, how? Absolutely! To freeze Butterfinger Puppy Chow, pack it into a freezer-safe bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. This delectable mixture can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. For a fresh touch, consider sprinkling a little powdered sugar on top after thawing. What should I do if my Butterfinger Puppy Chow is soggy? If your Butterfinger Puppy Chow turns out soggy, you might not have coated the cereal evenly or might have used too much chocolate mixture. To remedy this for future batches, ensure all cereal is well-coated but not oversaturated and mix gently rather than vigorously to avoid breaking down the cereal. If sogginess occurs, try spreading it out on a baking sheet and toasting it in a low oven (around 200°F) for a few minutes to help crisp it up again, while keeping an eye on it to prevent burning! Are there any allergy considerations for Butterfinger Puppy Chow? Yes, Butterfinger Puppy Chow can contain allergens such as peanuts and dairy, given the use of peanut butter and butter. For nut allergies, consider substituting peanut butter with sunflower seed butter to accommodate those with nut allergies. Always check labels on candy bars and other ingredients for allergies specific to your guests, including gluten in the cereal and any dairy concerns as well. Butterfinger Puppy Chow: Irresistibly Crunchy & Sweet Treat Discover the delightful Butterfinger Puppy Chow, a sweet and crunchy treat perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 5 minutes minsCooling Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 10 servingsCourse: SnacksCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cereal Base9 cups Rice Chex cereal Adds essential crunch and structure; certified gluten-free options are available.For the Chocolate Mixture1 cup Semisweet chocolate chips Offers a rich chocolate flavor; swap for dark chocolate for a deeper taste.1/2 cup Creamy peanut butter Infuses creaminess and a nutty depth; can be replaced with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free alternative.1/4 cup Unsalted butter Enhances the richness of the chocolate blend; use coconut oil for a dairy-free version.1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Adds a delightful aromatic note; consider using vanilla bean paste for an extra flavor boost.For the Sweet Coating2 cups Powdered sugar Sweetens and achieves that signature coating; try sugar-free powdered sugar for a lower-sugar option.For the Crunchy Finish1 cup Crushed Butterfinger candy bars Introduces a delightful buttery crunch; swap with Reese’s Pieces for a new twist! Equipment large mixing bowlMicrowave-safe BowlSpatulaResealable plastic bagBaking sheetParchment paper Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Butterfinger Puppy ChowBegin by pouring 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl.In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips, 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter, and 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. Heat the mixture in the microwave for 1 minute, stirring halfway through.Once the chocolate mixture is silky smooth, mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.Pour the warm chocolate mixture over the Rice Chex cereal and gently fold the cereal into the chocolate.Transfer the chocolate-coated mixture into a large resealable plastic bag.Add 2 cups of powdered sugar to the bag, seal it, and shake vigorously.Open the bag and add 1 cup of crushed Butterfinger candy bars. Reseal and shake again.Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and allow it to cool completely for 15-20 minutes.Store your Puppy Chow in an airtight container for up to a week. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gCalcium: 2mgIron: 4mg NotesEnsure all cereal is evenly coated for the best texture. Consider adding festive M&Ms for a vibrant holiday touch. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
