This Butterfinger Puppy Chow is everything you want in an easy, no-bake treat—crunchy, chocolatey, peanut buttery, and packed with bits of that unmistakable Butterfinger crunch. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or just a sweet snack at home, this recipe delivers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. With minimal prep time and no baking required, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in just minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious treat without the need for baking.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chocolate, peanut butter, and Butterfinger candy creates a flavor explosion that everyone will love.
- Versatile Treat: Ideal for birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or casual get-togethers. This snack fits any occasion!
- Shareable Goodness: Perfect for sharing at work or with friends. Everyone will appreciate this delightful snack.
- No Special Equipment Needed: You don’t need fancy gadgets; just basic kitchen tools will do!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Baking sheet
- Ziplock bag (2-gallon)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl helps you easily combine all ingredients without making a mess.
- Microwave-safe bowl: This allows you to melt ingredients safely and efficiently.
- Baking sheet: Used for spreading out the finished product to cool properly.
- Ziplock bag: Makes coating with powdered sugar easier and minimizes cleanup.

Ingredients
This Butterfinger Puppy Chow is everything you want in an easy, no-bake treat—crunchy, chocolatey, peanut buttery, and packed with bits of that unmistakable Butterfinger crunch.
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)
How to Make Butterfinger Puppy Chow
Step 1: Prepare the Cereal
- Add the Rice Chex Cereal to an extra large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, and salted butter.
- Microwave on high for 1 minute.
- Stir well until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
Step 3: Add Vanilla
- Stir in the pure vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Coat the Cereal
- Drizzle the chocolate peanut butter mixture over the cereal.
- Gently stir to coat all the cereal evenly.
Step 5: Mix in Butterfinger Candy
- Stir in the 15 crushed Butterfinger candy bars until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Powdered Sugar Coating
- You can either sprinkle powdered sugar over the coated cereal mixture and stir it in or add the coated cereal to an extra large (2-gallon) ziplock bag and shake until coated with powdered sugar.
Step 7: Cool Before Serving
- Spread out on a baking sheet to dry.
- Just before serving, sprinkle in the remaining chopped fun size candy bars for an extra touch of sweetness.
Enjoy your delicious Butterfinger Puppy Chow!
How to Serve Butterfinger Puppy Chow
Butterfinger Puppy Chow is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.
At Parties
- In Individual Cups: Portion the Puppy Chow into small cups for easy serving. This makes it convenient for guests to grab and enjoy.
- On a Snack Table: Create a colorful display by placing Butterfinger Puppy Chow in a large bowl surrounded by other snacks like popcorn or chips.
As a Dessert
- With Ice Cream: Top vanilla ice cream with Butterfinger Puppy Chow for an extra crunch. It’s a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
- Garnished with Extra Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the Puppy Chow before serving for an indulgent touch.
As Gifts
- In Gift Bags: Fill decorative bags with Butterfinger Puppy Chow as treats for friends and family. They make perfect homemade gifts!
- For Special Occasions: Package it in festive containers for birthdays or holidays, adding a personalized note for that special touch.
How to Perfect Butterfinger Puppy Chow
Perfecting your Butterfinger Puppy Chow is all about the details. Follow these tips to ensure an amazing treat every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your Rice Chex and Butterfinger bars are fresh for the best taste and texture.
- Microwave Carefully: When melting the chocolate mixture, microwave in short bursts to prevent burning.
- Coat Evenly: Gently stir the cereal while drizzling the chocolate mixture to ensure each piece is coated well.
- Sift Powdered Sugar: Sifting helps eliminate clumps, allowing for an even coating on your Puppy Chow.
- Store Properly: Keep leftover Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunch.
Best Side Dishes for Butterfinger Puppy Chow
Butterfinger Puppy Chow pairs nicely with several side dishes that complement its sweet and crunchy profile. Here are some great options.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the Puppy Chow.
- Veggie Platter: Crisp veggies with hummus provide a savory contrast, making it a well-rounded snack spread.
- Cheese Board: Include a variety of cheeses and crackers for guests who enjoy both sweet and savory flavors.
- Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: These add a sweet-and-salty element that pairs beautifully with the Peanut Butter flavor.
- Mini Sandwiches: Small sandwiches filled with turkey or chicken keep things satisfying without overshadowing the treat.
- Popcorn Mix: Combine popcorn with nuts and dried fruit for another crunchy option that complements the sweetness of the Puppy Chow.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Butterfinger Puppy Chow even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the Sifting: Not sifting the powdered sugar can lead to clumps in your mix. Always sift it before adding for a smooth texture.
- Overheating Chocolate: Microwaving chocolate too long can cause it to seize. Heat in short bursts and stir until smooth.
- Not Coating Evenly: Failing to coat the cereal properly can lead to dry spots. Make sure to drizzle and stir gently for even coverage.
- Using the Wrong Cereal: Substituting with non-Chex cereals may alter the texture. Stick with Rice Chex for that perfect crunch.
- Ignoring Cooling Time: Rushing to serve can result in a sticky mess. Allow the mixture to cool completely on a baking sheet.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Keep it away from moisture to maintain crunchiness.
Freezing Butterfinger Puppy Chow
- Freeze in a sealed, freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating Butterfinger Puppy Chow
- Oven: Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C) and spread on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat in 10-second intervals, stirring between each, until warm but not melted.
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, stirring constantly until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Butterfinger Puppy Chow, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:
What is Butterfinger Puppy Chow?
Butterfinger Puppy Chow is a sweet treat made with cereal, chocolate, peanut butter, and crushed Butterfinger candy bars, creating a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Can I customize my Butterfinger Puppy Chow?
Yes! You can add different types of candies or nuts based on your preferences. Just ensure they complement the existing flavors.
How long does Butterfinger Puppy Chow last?
Properly stored in an airtight container, it lasts about a week at room temperature or up to two months if frozen.
Is there a way to make it healthier?
You can use dark chocolate chips and reduce the amount of powdered sugar for a slightly healthier version while still enjoying its delicious taste!
Final Thoughts
This Butterfinger Puppy Chow is not just a tasty treat; it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion. Its crunchy texture combined with chocolate and peanut butter makes it irresistible. Plus, you can customize it with different ingredients if you wish. Try this recipe today for a delightful snack that everyone will love!
Butterfinger Puppy Chow
- Total Time: 41 minute
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Description
Butterfinger Puppy Chow is the ultimate no-bake treat that combines the delightful crunch of cereal with a rich mixture of chocolate and peanut butter, all enhanced by the irresistible flavor of crushed Butterfinger candy bars. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or just a sweet snack at home, this easy-to-make recipe will have everyone coming back for more. With its crunchy texture and sweet taste, Butterfinger Puppy Chow is a versatile dessert that fits any occasion!
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 fun-size Butterfinger candy bars (15 crushed, 3 chopped for garnish)
- 1 ¼ cup powdered sugar (sifted)
Instructions
- Place Rice Chex Cereal in a large mixing bowl.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt together chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter on high for about 1 minute. Stir until smooth.
- Mix in vanilla extract until well combined.
- Drizzle the chocolate mixture over the cereal and gently stir to coat evenly.
- Add in crushed Butterfinger bars and mix until distributed.
- Coat with sifted powdered sugar by either sprinkling it over the mixture or shaking it in a ziplock bag.
- Spread on a baking sheet to cool before serving, topping with remaining chopped Butterfinger.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: For a twist, try adding nuts or different candies to customize your Puppy Chow. Ensure all ingredients are fresh for optimal flavor and texture.




