Butterfinger Puppy Chow Recipe
Introduction
Butterfinger Puppy Chow is a deliciously addictive snack mix combining crunchy cereal, rich peanut butter chocolate coating, and the crunchy sweetness of Butterfinger candy bars. It’s perfect for parties, movie nights, or whenever you want a sweet, crunchy treat.

Ingredients
- 7 cups Rice Chex Cereal (or store brand version)
- 1 cup semi sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup salted butter
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 18 fun size Butterfinger candy bars (15 crushed and 3 roughly chopped for garnish)
- 1 ¼ cup powdered sugar (sifted)
Instructions
- Step 1: Add the cereal to an extra large bowl.
- Step 2: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir well until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
- Step 3: Stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- Step 4: Drizzle the chocolate peanut butter mixture over the cereal. Gently stir to coat the cereal evenly.
- Step 5: Stir in the 15 crushed Butterfinger candy bars.
- Step 6: To coat with powdered sugar, sprinkle the powdered sugar over the coated cereal mixture and stir, or add the mixture to an extra large (2-gallon) ziplock bag and shake thoroughly. The bag method helps keep powdered sugar contained and simplifies cleanup.
- Step 7: Spread the coated cereal out on a baking sheet to dry. Just before serving, sprinkle the 3 chopped fun size Butterfinger bars on top for garnish.
Tips & Variations
- Use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for added texture.
- For a festive touch, add a pinch of cinnamon or a few mini marshmallows.
- If you prefer a less sweet snack, reduce the powdered sugar slightly or substitute with cocoa powder for a chocolate twist.
- Crush candy bars gently to avoid turning them into powder, which helps maintain a nice crunch.
Storage
Store the Butterfinger Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and crunchy. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks. To enjoy after freezing, allow it to thaw at room temperature. Reheating is not necessary as it is best served cold or at room temperature.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different cereal instead of Rice Chex?
Yes, you can substitute with other crisp and sturdy cereals like Corn Chex or Wheat Chex, or even a similar puffed rice or corn cereal. Just make sure it’s crunchy enough to hold the coating well.
Is it possible to make this recipe without a microwave?
Absolutely. You can melt the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter on the stovetop using a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over simmering water. Stir constantly until smooth before adding the vanilla extract.
PrintButterfinger Puppy Chow Recipe
Butterfinger Puppy Chow is a deliciously addictive snack mix featuring crispy Rice Chex cereal coated in a smooth chocolate, peanut butter, and butter mixture, mixed with crushed Butterfinger candy bars, and dusted with powdered sugar for a sweet and crunchy treat. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or any time you crave a nostalgic snack with a peanut buttery twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 minute
- Total Time: 11 minutes
- Yield: About 10–12 cups 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Microwaving
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Cereal
- 7 cups Rice Chex Cereal (or store brand equivalent)
Chocolate Coating
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup salted butter
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Candy
- 18 fun size Butterfinger candy bars (15 crushed, 3 roughly chopped for garnish)
Coating
- 1 ¼ cups powdered sugar (sifted)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cereal: Add 7 cups of Rice Chex cereal to an extra large bowl, making sure there’s enough room to stir and coat the cereal thoroughly.
- Melt the Chocolate Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, ½ cup creamy peanut butter, and ¼ cup salted butter. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir well until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract until it’s well combined with the melted chocolate mixture.
- Coat the Cereal: Drizzle the chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the cereal. Gently stir the mixture to evenly coat every piece of cereal without crushing it.
- Add Crushed Butterfingers: Mix in the 15 crushed Butterfinger candy bars into the coated cereal, distributing them evenly throughout the mix.
- Powdered Sugar Coating: Either sprinkle 1 ¼ cups of sifted powdered sugar over the coated cereal and stir to coat, or transfer the mixture to a large (2 gallon) ziplock bag, add the powdered sugar, seal, and shake until the cereal is fully coated. Using the ziplock bag helps contain the powdered sugar and makes cleanup easier.
- Dry and Garnish: Spread the powdered sugar-coated cereal out on a baking sheet to let it dry. Just before serving, sprinkle the 3 roughly chopped fun size Butterfinger candy bars on top as a garnish.
Notes
- Using a large ziplock bag to coat with powdered sugar helps keep the mess contained and makes stirring easier.
- Make sure to gently stir when coating the cereal to avoid breaking the pieces.
- Store the puppy chow in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- You can adjust the amount of Butterfinger candy bars based on how sweet or crunchy you prefer your mix.
Keywords: Butterfinger Puppy Chow, Puppy Chow, Muddy Buddies, Chocolate Peanut Butter Snack, Chex Mix Dessert, Candy Snack Mix, Party Snack

