Why You’ll Love Butterfinger Puppy Chow Recipe
This recipe takes the nostalgic charm of puppy chow and gives it a delightful Butterfinger upgrade. It’s great for sharing, travels well, and can be made in large batches. The combination of crispy cereal, smooth chocolate, and crunchy candy bits creates a texture and flavor combo that’s completely crave-worthy.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Rice Chex cereal
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Butterfinger candy bars (crushed)
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Creamy peanut butter
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Semi-sweet chocolate chips
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Butter
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Vanilla extract
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Powdered sugar
Directions
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In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.
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Stir in the vanilla extract.
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In a large mixing bowl, add the Chex cereal. Pour the melted mixture over the cereal and gently stir until evenly coated.
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Add the crushed Butterfinger candy and gently toss to combine.
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Transfer the coated cereal into a large zip-top bag. Add the powdered sugar, seal the bag, and shake vigorously until all pieces are well coated.
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Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet to cool and set before serving or storing.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 10 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 10–15 minutes
Total time: 20–25 minutes
Variations
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Use a mix of milk and dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
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Substitute Reese’s or Snickers for the Butterfinger to switch up the candy flavor.
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Add mini pretzels or peanuts for extra crunch.
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Use almond or cashew butter instead of peanut butter for a nutty twist.
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Mix in a handful of M&Ms after the powdered sugar step for added color and fun.
Storage/Reheating
Store Butterfinger Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 2 months. No reheating is necessary—just let it come to room temperature if chilled or frozen.
FAQs
What kind of cereal works best for puppy chow?
Rice Chex is the most commonly used cereal because of its light and crispy texture, but Corn Chex or similar cereals also work well.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for making ahead. Just store it in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve.
Is Butterfinger Puppy Chow gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free Rice Chex and check that your Butterfinger candy bars are gluten-free, the recipe can be made gluten-free.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but the consistency may vary. Make sure it’s well stirred and not too oily or dry.
How do I crush Butterfinger bars?
Place them in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin or the bottom of a glass to gently crush them into small pieces.
Can I use a different kind of candy?
Absolutely. Try using other candy bars like Milky Way, Reese’s, or Crunch bars for different flavors.
What can I use instead of powdered sugar?
You can use a mix of cocoa powder and powdered sugar for a chocolaty twist, or a sugar-free powdered sweetener if you’re reducing sugar.
How do I prevent the puppy chow from getting soggy?
Make sure the cereal is completely coated and cooled before storing. Also, keep it in an airtight container to avoid moisture.
Is this safe for people with nut allergies?
This version contains peanut butter and Butterfinger, which also has peanut ingredients. Use a nut-free alternative and candy to accommodate allergies.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it’s very easy to scale up. Just make sure you have a big enough mixing bowl or work in batches.
Conclusion
Butterfinger Puppy Chow is the ultimate snackable treat for candy lovers and fans of classic muddy buddies. It’s quick to make, loaded with texture, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a movie night, game day, or gift-giving, this sweet mix is sure to be a hit with everyone.
Butterfinger Puppy Chow
This Butterfinger Puppy Chow is a sweet and crunchy no-bake snack mix that combines crispy cereal with melted chocolate, peanut butter, and crushed Butterfinger candy. Perfect for parties, holidays, or an indulgent treat, this dessert snack is quick to make and irresistibly addictive!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: About 8 cups
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 6 fun-size Butterfinger bars, crushed (or 1 cup crushed Butterfinger bits)
Instructions
- Place the Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl. Set aside.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until melted and smooth.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour the chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the cereal and gently stir to coat evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to a large zip-top bag or container with a lid. Add powdered sugar and shake until all the cereal is well coated.
- Fold in the crushed Butterfinger pieces.
- Spread on a baking sheet to cool and dry slightly before serving or storing.
Notes
- You can substitute Butterfinger bits with other candy bars like Reese’s or Snickers for a twist.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Great make-ahead option for holidays and parties.
- For extra crunch, chill the mix briefly in the fridge before serving.