Butterfinger Puppy Chow Recipe

If you’re craving a snack that’s outrageously fun, sweet, and packed with a perfect crunch, Butterfinger Puppy Chow is the ultimate treat to whip up. Imagine crispy cereal coated in luscious chocolate and peanut butter, sprinkled generously with chopped Butterfinger candy bars, and dusted with powdered sugar for that irresistible melt-in-your-mouth finish. This recipe brings together the nostalgic flavors of Butterfinger candy with a playful twist on traditional puppy chow, making it a snack that’s impossible to resist at any gathering or quiet night in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but absolutely essential in crafting the perfect Butterfinger Puppy Chow. Each one adds its own charm — from the rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter to the iconic candy bars that bring the signature crunch and flavor you expect.

• Semi-sweet or milk chocolate (4 oz): Melts smoothly to coat the cereal, adding rich cocoa warmth.
• Rice or Corn Chex Cereal (4 cups): Provides the crispy base that soaks up all the delicious coatings perfectly.
• BUTTERFINGER® Peanut Butter Cup Minis (1 cup): Adds delightful peanut butter pockets and a soft, creamy texture.
• Peanut butter (1/2 cup): Adds indulgent nuttiness that complements the chocolate coating beautifully.
• BUTTERFINGER® Fun-Size Bars (6 bars): Chopped up for that signature crunch and irresistible Butterfinger flavor in every bite.
• Powdered sugar (1 cup): Gives that classic puppy chow dusting, balancing sweetness with a light, snow-like finish.

How to Make Butterfinger Puppy Chow

Step 1: Melt Chocolate

Start by melting your chocolate either over a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave. Keep stirring frequently to avoid any burning and ensure it becomes smooth and glossy. This luscious chocolate will be the first flavor layer to coat half your cereal.

Step 2: Warm Peanut Butter

Next, gently warm your peanut butter until it turns liquidy but not boiling. This warming makes it easier to mix and coat the other half of your cereal with that rich, creamy nutty flavor.

Step 3: Chop Candy Bars

Take your Butterfinger Fun-Size Bars and chop them into small, bite-friendly pieces. Setting these aside prepares you for adding the signature crunch into the cereal mix later.

Step 4: Mix Chocolate Cereal

Combine 2 cups of Chex cereal with the melted chocolate and stir gently until each piece is evenly coated with that silky chocolate goodness. Then fold in half of the chopped Butterfinger bars carefully so you get chunks scattered throughout.

Step 5: Mix Peanut Butter Cereal

In a separate bowl, mix the other 2 cups of cereal with your warmed peanut butter. Once evenly coated, fold in the remaining chopped Butterfinger pieces to infuse every bite with buttery crunch and flavor.

Step 6: Coat Chocolate Cereal

Place the chocolate-coated cereal into a gallon-sized ziplock bag with half the powdered sugar. Seal the bag with some air inside and shake well until every morsel is coated in a delicate dusting of sweetness that adds that signature puppy chow finish.

Step 7: Coat Peanut Butter Cereal

Repeat the same process with the peanut butter-coated cereal in another ziplock bag using the remaining powdered sugar. This step ensures both flavors have that perfect sweet coating that balances crunchy and soft textures delightfully.

Step 8: Combine And Serve

Finally, mix both coated cereal blends together in a large bowl and stir in the Butterfinger Peanut Butter Cup Minis. This combo creates a medley of textures and flavors, from crisp to creamy to crunchy. Now your Butterfinger Puppy Chow is ready to enjoy — grab a handful and prepare to be delighted!

How to Serve Butterfinger Puppy Chow

Garnishes

For an extra special touch, sprinkle some crushed Butterfinger bits or additional peanut butter cup minis on top. This will amp up the texture and make your presentation look as indulgent as it tastes. A light drizzle of melted chocolate over the bowl can also add an elegant, glossy finish perfect for parties.

Side Dishes

Butterfinger Puppy Chow shines as a standalone snack, but it pairs wonderfully with simple sides like fresh fruit slices, vanilla yogurt for dipping, or even a scoop of ice cream for an adventurous dessert variation. These additions balance the richness and keep things refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Butterfinger Puppy Chow in festive bowls or mason jars for casual gatherings, or package individual portions in clear cellophane bags tied with a colorful ribbon as charming party favors. You can also layer it with whipped cream and caramel in dessert parfait glasses for a stunning presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Butterfinger Puppy Chow fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays crisp and flavorful for up to a week, making it perfect for snacking throughout the week or prepping for events ahead of time.

Freezing

You can freeze Butterfinger Puppy Chow by placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well for up to a month. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to bring back that perfect bite without any sogginess.

Reheating

This snack doesn’t require reheating, but if your chocolate hardens too much after storage, sitting it out for a few minutes at room temperature will soften it just enough for the perfect texture without losing any crunch or flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cereal?

Absolutely! While Rice or Corn Chex is traditional for puppy chow due to its crispy texture and coating ability, you can experiment with other cereals like honey nut Cheerios or even gluten-free options. Just make sure the cereal stays crunchy when coated.

Is Butterfinger Puppy Chow kid-friendly?

Yes, this treat is perfect for kids and adults alike. It’s sweet, fun, and easy to snack on. Just be mindful of any nut allergies since this recipe contains peanut butter and candy with nuts.

Can I use regular peanut butter instead of crunchy?

Definitely! Creamy or crunchy peanut butter will work fine. Creamy peanut butter creates a smoother coating, while crunchy adds a bit of extra texture. Choose based on your preference.

How long does Butterfinger Puppy Chow last?

Stored properly in an airtight container, it stays fresh and delicious for about a week. After that, it may lose some crispness, but usually remains tasty enough to enjoy for several days more.

Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, use dairy-free chocolate and peanut butter alternatives. Vegan Butterfinger-type candies might be tricky to find, but you can replace with other nutty candy bars or omit them if needed for dietary preferences.

Final Thoughts

Butterfinger Puppy Chow is one of those joyful recipes that brings happiness by the handful. It’s simple enough to throw together quickly but tastes like something you’d find in a gourmet candy shop. Whether you’re making it for a festive occasion, a movie night, or just an everyday treat, give this recipe a try — your taste buds will thank you for it!

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