Description

Butterfinger Puppy Chow is a sweet, crunchy no-bake treat made with crispy Rice Chex cereal coated in rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, crushed Butterfinger candy bars, and powdered sugar. Perfect for parties, holidays, movie nights, and easy homemade snacking.

Ingredients

7 cups Rice Chex cereal

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

½ cup creamy peanut butter

¼ cup salted butter

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

18 standard-size Butterfinger candy bars, crushed (reserve approximately 1 cup for topping)

1¼ cups powdered sugar

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Instructions

Place the Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl, leaving enough room to gently toss the cereal without breaking it.
Unwrap the Butterfinger candy bars and place them in a resealable plastic bag. Crush them into small pieces using a rolling pin. Reserve approximately 1 cup of crushed candy for the final topping.
Combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, and salted butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each interval, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
Stir the pure vanilla extract into the melted chocolate mixture until evenly incorporated.
Slowly pour the warm chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Using a large spatula, gently fold until all the cereal pieces are evenly coated.
Add most of the crushed Butterfinger candy to the chocolate-coated cereal, keeping the reserved portion aside. Gently toss until the candy is evenly distributed.
Transfer the coated cereal into a large resealable plastic bag or container with a secure lid. Add the powdered sugar, seal, and gently shake until every piece is coated. Work in two batches if necessary.
Spread the puppy chow in an even layer on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow it to cool and set for approximately 15 minutes, or until the chocolate coating has firmed up.
Sprinkle the reserved crushed Butterfinger candy over the cooled puppy chow. Gently toss once more, transfer to a serving bowl, and enjoy.

Notes

Chocolate variations: Substitute white chocolate chips for a sweeter coating or dark chocolate chips for a richer, less sweet flavor.

Extra peanut butter flavor: Slightly increase the creamy peanut butter or add peanut butter chips for additional richness.

Sweet and salty variation: Mix in mini pretzels or lightly salted peanuts for extra crunch and a balanced flavor.

Party variation: Add mini chocolate candies, chopped chocolate bars, or festive sprinkles after the puppy chow has cooled.

Cereal substitutions: Corn Chex or another sturdy, square-shaped cereal can replace Rice Chex.

Prevent clumping: Avoid overheating the chocolate mixture, coat the cereal evenly with powdered sugar, and separate large clusters before cooling.

Peanut butter substitutions: Almond butter or sunflower seed butter can replace creamy peanut butter, but Butterfinger candy still contains peanuts, so the recipe will not be peanut-free.

Room temperature storage: Store completely cooled puppy chow in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for 4–5 days.

Refrigerator storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Let stand at room temperature briefly before serving.

Freezer storage: Freeze in a freezer-safe airtight container or resealable bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the sealed container at room temperature to help prevent condensation.

Make-ahead tip: Prepare the puppy chow 1–2 days before serving and store in an airtight container to maintain its crunch.

Setting time: Allow approximately 15 additional minutes for the chocolate coating to firm up after the 20 minutes of active preparation and cooking.

Serving suggestion: Serve in individual snack cups, party bowls, or decorative treat bags for holidays, birthdays, and gatherings.

Allergen information: Contains peanuts, milk, and potentially soy. Check cereal, chocolate, and candy labels for additional allergens.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Dessert, Snack
Method: No-Bake, Microwave
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1/12 of recipe)
Calories: 900 kcal
Sugar: 94 g
Sodium: 420 mg
Fat: 44 g
Saturated Fat: 19 g
Unsaturated Fat: 23 g
Trans Fat: 0.3 g
Carbohydrates: 122 g
Fiber: 5 g
Protein: 13 g
Cholesterol: 20 mg