Get ready to fall in love with the snack you didn’t know you needed Butterfinger Puppy Chow (aka muddy buddies with a sweet, nutty twist). It’s crispy, chocolatey, peanut buttery, and dusted in a blanket of powdered sugar that makes it dangerously snackable. Think your favorite childhood treat, but upgraded with crushed Butterfingers for that irresistible candy bar crunch.

This is one of those “just one more handful” recipes perfect for movie nights, road trips, parties, or sneaking from the fridge in your pajamas. Trust me, once you taste this sweet-and-salty combo, you’re going to want to keep a secret stash just for yourself.

Why You’ll Love Butterfinger Puppy Chow

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Works as a party snack, edible gift, dessert, or just a fun anytime treat.

Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients with big flavor payoffs and one batch feeds a crowd.

Quick and Easy: No baking, no fuss just melt, mix, and shake.

Customizable: Add pretzels, mini marshmallows, or extra chocolate chips for a fun twist.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Butterfinger Puppy Chow

This is sweet snack magic made from pantry staples and candy bars. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chex Cereal (Rice or Corn): Light, crispy squares that hold all the gooey goodness without getting soggy.

Butterfinger Candy Bars (crushed): The star of the show! Brings that buttery, peanut-buttery crunch to every bite.

Peanut Butter: Creamy, rich, and perfect for binding everything together.

Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet or milk chocolate, melted into pure snackable heaven.

Butter: Helps create a smooth, pourable chocolate coating.

Powdered Sugar: Coats every piece with a sweet, snowy finish that keeps your fingers deliciously dusted.

Vanilla Extract (optional): Adds a subtle warm flavor that enhances the chocolate and peanut butter combo.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment

No oven here just get a large mixing bowl, a microwave-safe bowl, and a gallon-sized zip-top bag or container ready for coating.

Combine Ingredients

Place the Chex cereal in a large bowl and set aside. 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. Stir in the vanilla extract, if using.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel

Place the powdered sugar into a large zip-top bag or lidded container you’ll use this to shake everything into sweet-coated perfection.

Assemble the Dish

Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the Chex cereal and gently stir with a spatula until every piece is coated. Work slowly to avoid crushing the cereal.

Cook to Perfection

(Not really cooking, but here’s the fun part!) Add the crushed Butterfinger pieces and gently toss again so they stick to the chocolate coating. Then transfer the mixture to the bag or container with powdered sugar.

Finishing Touches

Seal and shake until every piece is covered in a light, fluffy coat of powdered sugar. Spread onto a baking sheet to cool and dry for about 10–15 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooled, transfer to a serving bowl or just dig in straight from the tray. Store leftovers in an airtight container, if you have any!

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 10–12
Calories per serving: Approx. 290 calories

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2 minutes (microwaving)
Total Time: 15 minutes

How to Serve Butterfinger Puppy Chow

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
– Serve in little snack cups or jars for party-ready portions.
– Mix with popcorn, pretzels, or mini peanut butter cups for a snack mix upgrade.
– Use it to top ice cream or milkshakes for a sweet crunch.
– Package in cellophane bags with ribbons for cute edible gifts.
– Set it out in a big bowl for game day, movie night, or your next potluck.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
– Don’t crush the cereal while mixing use a folding motion with a spatula.
– Let the mixture cool slightly before adding the powdered sugar to avoid melting it.
– Use parchment paper when cooling to keep cleanup easy.
– Want it crunchier? Add crushed pretzels or roasted peanuts to the mix.
– Freeze leftovers for an extra cold, crunchy treat.
– Crush the Butterfingers finely so they stick well to the coating.
– If the chocolate thickens too fast, microwave for a few seconds to loosen.
– Add a pinch of salt to the chocolate mix to balance the sweetness.
– Make it extra chocolatey by dusting with cocoa powder before powdered sugar.
– Don’t skimp on the powdered sugar it’s what gives the signature coating.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use a different cereal?
Yes! Crispix or even Golden Grahams work well, though texture may vary slightly.

2. Can I make this nut-free?
Try sunflower seed butter or cookie butter instead of peanut butter.

3. Do I have to use Butterfinger candy bars?
They’re the signature twist, but you can sub in Reese’s, Heath, or any crunchy candy bar you love.

4. How long does this keep?
Stored in an airtight container at room temp, it stays fresh for about a week.

5. Can I freeze puppy chow?
Absolutely. It freezes beautifully just thaw at room temp before serving.

6. Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk or semi-sweet?
Yes! It adds a more intense, less sweet flavor if that’s your vibe.

7. Why is my puppy chow soggy?
Too much liquid or not enough powdered sugar. Make sure the cereal is coated but not drowning.

8. Can I make this vegan?
Use dairy-free chocolate, plant-based butter, and a vegan candy bar substitute.

9. Is this gluten-free?
If using gluten-free Chex and candy bars, yes! Always check your labels.

10. Can I double the recipe?
Totally. Just make sure to mix in a very large bowl or in batches to coat evenly.

Conclusion

Butterfinger Puppy Chow is more than just a snack it’s a crave-worthy, candy-studded treat that brings instant joy in every crunchy, powdery bite. It’s fast, fun, and seriously addictive. Whether you’re making it for a party or hoarding it all to yourself (no shame), this sweet treat is bound to be a hit. So grab a bowl, shake it up, and enjoy every delicious handful!

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