BUTTERFINGER PUPPY CHOW!

Introduction

If you’re a fan of crunchy, sweet, and utterly irresistible no-bake desserts, then this Butterfinger Puppy Chow is about to become your new favorite. Packed with crispy Rice Chex cereal, smooth melted chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and crushed Butterfinger candy, this recipe combines nostalgic childhood flavors with a fun, snackable twist. Perfect for parties, holidays, or simply when you’re craving something indulgent, it’s a dessert mix that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

My recipe story

I first stumbled upon the idea of Puppy Chow (also known as Muddy Buddies) during a family gathering where big bowls of the classic chocolate-peanut butter snack disappeared faster than any other dessert. The light crunch of the cereal coated in chocolate and powdered sugar had everyone reaching for more. I decided to take it up a notch by adding one of my favorite candy bars—Butterfinger. The result was a game-changer: a sweet, nutty, chocolatey, crispy, and slightly salty treat that instantly became a household favorite. Now, every time I make this Butterfinger Puppy Chow, it feels like sharing a little piece of comfort and nostalgia with the people I love most.

Ingredient breakdown

The beauty of this Butterfinger Puppy Chow lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a role in creating a balanced sweet treat that’s both crunchy and satisfying.

Rice Chex Cereal: This is the base of the recipe and provides the light, crispy crunch that makes Puppy Chow so addictive. The cereal’s hollow squares are perfect for catching melted chocolate and peanut butter, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Semi-sweet chocolate chips: These melt into a smooth, rich coating. Semi-sweet chocolate provides just the right balance of sweetness without overpowering the peanut butter and Butterfinger flavors.

Creamy peanut butter: Peanut butter adds richness and a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with both the chocolate and the Butterfinger candy. It also helps the chocolate cling to the cereal.

Salted butter: A touch of salted butter balances the sweetness, bringing out all the flavors. It makes the melted chocolate mixture velvety smooth and easy to coat over the cereal.

Butterfinger candy bars (crushed): The star of the show! Butterfingers add a crispy, peanut-buttery crunch that enhances the whole recipe, giving it a fun, candy-studded texture that’s unforgettable.

Powdered sugar: Though not in the base list above, powdered sugar is typically used to coat Puppy Chow, giving it that snowy look and ensuring the pieces don’t stick together.

Equipment you’ll need

• Large mixing bowl
• Microwave-safe bowl or saucepan
• Rubber spatula
• Zip-top bag or airtight container
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-step directions

1. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, peanut butter, and salted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each one, until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy. This usually takes about 1 to 1½ minutes. Be careful not to overheat or the chocolate may seize.
2. Place the Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl. Slowly pour the melted chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the cereal, gently folding with a spatula until every piece is well coated. Work slowly so the cereal doesn’t crush.
3. Add the coated cereal to a large zip-top bag or keep it in the bowl if preferred. Pour in powdered sugar and shake or stir until the cereal is evenly covered. The powdered sugar prevents clumping and adds that signature sweet finish.
4. Once coated, sprinkle in the crushed Butterfinger pieces. Stir gently to distribute them evenly without breaking down the cereal too much.
5. Allow the mix to cool and set for about 10 minutes. Serve immediately in a large bowl for sharing or divide into small bags or jars for gifting. Enjoy your crunchy, chocolatey, Butterfinger-filled snack!

Variations & substitutions

One of the joys of Puppy Chow is how adaptable it can be. If you don’t have Butterfingers on hand, try Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Snickers, or even chopped-up Twix bars. White chocolate can be substituted for semi-sweet chocolate to create a sweeter, creamier version. For a nut-free option, replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or cookie butter. If you want more texture, toss in mini pretzels, peanuts, or M&Ms to make it more of a snack mix.

Storage, freezing & make-ahead

This recipe stores beautifully for up to a week in an airtight container at room temperature. To keep it extra fresh, add a small piece of parchment paper inside the container to absorb moisture. If you’d like to make it ahead, prepare the recipe, let it cool completely, and store it in freezer-safe bags. Frozen Puppy Chow can last up to 2 months and thaws quickly at room temperature, making it an excellent make-ahead party snack.

Serving ideas & pairings

Butterfinger Puppy Chow is best served in a big bowl for sharing during movie nights, game days, or holiday gatherings. For parties, portion it into small paper cups or clear treat bags tied with ribbon for easy grab-and-go snacking. Pair it with salty snacks like pretzels, popcorn, or mixed nuts to balance out the sweetness. It also makes a fun topping for ice cream sundaes or milkshakes, adding extra crunch and candy flavor.

FAQ

Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Yes! Simply swap the peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or cookie butter, and use a nut-free candy in place of Butterfinger.

How much powdered sugar should I use?
Generally, 1½ to 2 cups of powdered sugar is enough to coat 7 cups of cereal evenly.

Can I use white chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Absolutely! White chocolate makes the mix extra sweet and pairs wonderfully with peanut butter.

Do I need to refrigerate Puppy Chow?
No, refrigeration is not necessary. In fact, storing at room temperature keeps it crispier.

What if I don’t have Butterfinger bars?
You can use other candy bars like Reese’s, Kit Kat, or Snickers for a different twist.

Final thoughts

This Butterfinger Puppy Chow is more than just a snack—it’s a sweet memory-maker that brings smiles to everyone who tastes it. With its crunchy texture, chocolatey coating, and candy-filled surprise, it’s the perfect treat for celebrations or cozy nights at home. Whether you’re whipping it up for a holiday dessert table, packing it into lunchboxes, or gifting it to friends, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself reaching for this fun twist on a classic time and time again.

BUTTERFINGER PUPPY CHOW!

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• Author: Sarah White
• Total Time: 12 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A crunchy, chocolate-peanut butter snack mix coated in powdered sugar and loaded with crushed Butterfingers. Perfect for parties or gifting!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 7 cups Rice Chex cereal
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup salted butter
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 4 Butterfinger candy bars, crushed

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Instructions

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. 
2. Place the Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal and gently fold until fully coated. 
3. Transfer the coated cereal to a large zip-top bag. Add powdered sugar, seal, and shake until the cereal is evenly coated. 
4. Add crushed Butterfinger pieces to the mix and stir gently to distribute. 
5. Let cool for 10 minutes, then serve or store in an airtight container.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 2 months. Perfect for parties, holidays, or as a sweet edible gift.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American