Butterfinger Puppy Chow is a dangerously addictive snack mix made with crispy rice cereal, melted chocolate, peanut butter, and a generous coating of powdered sugar , all tossed with crunchy Butterfinger pieces. Each bite is a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and chocolatey flavors that tastes just like a Butterfinger candy bar in snack form!
It’s an easy, no-bake treat that takes less than 15 minutes to make and is perfect for parties, movie nights, or Christmas gift bags. The crispy cereal gives it that signature crunch, while the melted peanut butter and chocolate create a smooth coating that binds everything together. Whether you’re making it for Halloween, Christmas, or just because, this sweet snack mix will disappear fast!
Ingredients
- 9 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 6 fun-size Butterfinger bars, crushed (or 3 regular-size bars)
Preparation
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate and Peanut Butter
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and melted (about 1½ minutes total).
- Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 2: Mix with the Cereal
- Place Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal.
- Gently stir until all pieces are evenly coated.
Step 3: Coat with Powdered Sugar
- Transfer half of the coated cereal to a large zip-top bag.
- Add 1 cup of powdered sugar, seal the bag, and shake until the cereal is fully coated.
- Repeat with the remaining cereal and powdered sugar.
Step 4: Add Butterfinger Pieces
- Pour all coated cereal into a large bowl or onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Gently mix in the crushed Butterfinger pieces.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Allow to cool completely before storing.
- Enjoy immediately or pack into jars or gift bags for sharing!
Variations
- Holiday Mix: Add red and green M&M’s for a festive Christmas version.
- Peanut Butter Lovers: Use Reese’s Pieces instead of Butterfingers.
- Double Chocolate: Stir in mini chocolate chips after coating.
- Nut-Free: Use cookie butter instead of peanut butter.
Cooking Notes
- Use fresh cereal to keep the mix extra crispy.
- Crush Butterfingers just before adding to maintain their texture.
- For easier mixing, divide everything into two batches if your bowl is small.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in decorative bowls for parties or snack tables.
- Fill mason jars or treat bags for edible holiday gifts.
- Sprinkle over ice cream for an indulgent dessert topping.
- Add to a Christmas snack board for color and crunch.
Tips
- Shake well in the zip-top bag for even coating , no clumps of sugar!
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Freeze for up to 3 months (it stays crunchy even after thawing).
- If making for a crowd, double the recipe , it disappears quickly!
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, about 1 cup)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 210mg
FAQs
Q1: Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
- Yes! It adds a little extra crunch and texture.
Q2: What can I use instead of Butterfinger bars?
- Try using Reese’s cups, toffee bits, or any peanut butter-flavored candy.
Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
- Yes, it stores beautifully in an airtight container for up to a week.
Q4: How do I keep the coating from getting soggy?
- Make sure the cereal is completely cool before sealing it in a container.
Q5: Is it freezer-friendly?
- Yes! It freezes well , just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
Butterfinger Puppy Chow is the ultimate sweet snack , crunchy, chocolatey, peanut buttery, and perfectly coated in sugar. It’s the kind of easy, crowd-pleasing treat that everyone loves and no one can resist grabbing by the handful. Perfect for the holidays, parties, or just a cozy movie night at home, this recipe transforms a few simple ingredients into pure snack magic.