Butterfinger Puppy Chow

Butterfinger Puppy Chow is a sweet and crunchy treat that brings together Chex cereal, chocolate, and everyone’s favorite Butterfinger candy. This delightful mix is perfect for parties, movie nights, or simply as an afternoon snack. Its easy preparation and irresistible flavor make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends and family, this puppy chow is sure to impress with its unique blend of textures and tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delicious treat in no time.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chocolate and Butterfinger creates a sweet experience that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Snack: Perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy night in. Butterfinger Puppy Chow fits any occasion!
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve your little ones in the making process for a fun family activity that results in a tasty reward.
• Customizable Treat: Feel free to add your favorite candies or nuts for a personal touch!

Tools and Preparation

To make Butterfinger Puppy Chow, having the right tools will streamline your cooking experience. Gather these essential items before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Double boiler or microwave
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Gallon ziplock bags
• Baking sheet (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Double boiler or microwave: Ensures even melting of chocolate without burning.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently.
• Gallon ziplock bags: Perfect for coating the cereal in powdered sugar while keeping the mess contained.

Ingredients

A delightful mix of Chex cereal, chocolate, and Butterfinger candy creates a crunchy, sweet treat that’s hard to resist.

For the Chocolate Mixture

• 4 oz semi-sweet or milk chocolate
• 4 cups Rice or Corn Chex Cereal

For the Peanut Butter Mixture

• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• 6 BUTTERFINGER® Fun-Size Bars (chopped)

For Coating and Garnishing

• 1 cup BUTTERFINGER® Peanut Butter Cup Minis
• 1 cup powdered sugar

How to Make Butterfinger Puppy Chow

Step 1: Melt the Chocolate

Melt chocolate using either a double boiler or microwave in short increments. Stir continuously to prevent burning. Once completely melted, remove from heat.

Step 2: Warm the Peanut Butter

In a separate bowl, gently warm peanut butter in the microwave until it becomes smooth and liquidy.

Step 3: Chop the BUTTERFINGER® Bars

Chop the six BUTTERFINGER® bars into small pieces and set them aside for mixing later.

Step 4: Combine Cereal with Chocolate

Take 2 cups of the Rice or Corn Chex cereal and mix it with the melted chocolate. Stir softly until all pieces are nicely coated. Add half of the chopped candy bars, mixing gently.

Step 5: Mix Cereal with Peanut Butter

In another bowl, take another 2 cups of cereal and mix it with warmed peanut butter. Fold in the remaining chopped candy bars carefully.

Step 6: Coat with Powdered Sugar (Chocolate)

In a gallon ziplock bag, combine 1/2 cup powdered sugar with the chocolate-coated cereal. Seal tightly while allowing some air inside. Shake until well coated.

Step 7: Coat with Powdered Sugar (Peanut Butter)

Repeat step six using another gallon ziplock bag for the peanut butter mixture with the remaining powdered sugar.

Step 8: Combine Both Mixtures

Once both mixtures are coated well, combine them in a large bowl. Add in the BUTTERFINGER® Peanut Butter Cup Minis. Serve immediately and 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 for a party or a cozy movie night, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

As a Snack Mix

• Serve in a large bowl for guests to grab handfuls while mingling.
• Pair with popcorn for a sweet and salty combination.

In Individual Bags

• Fill small bags for an easy grab-and-go option.
• Perfect for school lunches or as party favors.

With Ice Cream

• Use Butterfinger Puppy Chow as a crunchy topping on vanilla or chocolate ice cream.
• Adds texture and sweetness to your dessert.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange alongside other treats like brownies and cookies.
• Makes for an eye-catching dessert display at gatherings.

For Movie Nights

• Place in popcorn buckets for a fun twist on traditional snacks.
• Great for family or date nights at home.

How to Perfect Butterfinger Puppy Chow

To make your Butterfinger Puppy Chow even more delightful, follow these simple tips.

• Use quality chocolate: Choosing high-quality chocolate will enhance the overall flavor of the snack.
• Adjust peanut butter amount: Feel free to add more peanut butter if you prefer a richer taste.
• Mix well: Ensure all cereal pieces are evenly coated for consistent flavor in every bite.
• Experiment with candy: Try adding other candies along with the Butterfinger candies for variety.
• Store properly: Keep your Puppy Chow in an airtight container to maintain its crunchiness.

Best Side Dishes for Butterfinger Puppy Chow

While Butterfinger Puppy Chow is delicious on its own, pairing it with some side dishes can elevate your snack experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the Puppy Chow.
2. Veggie Platter: Crisp vegetables with hummus offer a healthy contrast to the sugary treat.
3. Cheese Cubes: A selection of cheese pairs well, providing savory flavors alongside the sweet mix.
4. Mini Sandwiches: Small sandwiches are perfect finger foods that complement the crunchy texture of Puppy Chow.
5. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: These add an extra layer of sweetness while introducing saltiness to your spread.
6. Popcorn: A classic side that can be seasoned in various ways, making it ideal alongside sweet treats like Puppy Chow.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Butterfinger Puppy Chow, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the double boiler: Using a microwave without careful timing can lead to burned chocolate. Always melt chocolate using a double boiler or in short bursts while stirring.
• Overmixing the cereal: Stirring too vigorously can break the cereal pieces, resulting in a less crunchy treat. Gently fold the ingredients together instead.
• Not letting it cool: Serving immediately after coating can lead to a messy mix. Allow your Butterfinger Puppy Chow to cool before serving for the best texture.
• Ignoring storage tips: Improper storage can affect freshness. Store in an airtight container to keep it crunchy and delicious.
• Using different cereals: While you may want to experiment, not all cereals provide the same texture. Stick with Rice or Corn Chex for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Butterfinger Puppy Chow in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Butterfinger Puppy Chow

• Place Butterfinger Puppy Chow in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Butterfinger Puppy Chow

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm for about 10 minutes for a crispy texture.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 15 seconds, stirring between each until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently heat in a non-stick pan on low heat, stirring continuously.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about Butterfinger Puppy Chow, here are some common questions answered.

How do you make Butterfinger Puppy Chow more chocolatey?

You can add extra melted chocolate when mixing with the cereal for an even richer flavor.

Can I use other candies besides Butterfinger?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite candies like M&M’s or Reese’s Pieces for variety.

Is Butterfinger Puppy Chow gluten-free?

Yes, if you use certified gluten-free Chex cereal, this treat is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

How can I customize my Butterfinger Puppy Chow?

You can add nuts, pretzels, or dried fruit to give it a unique twist that suits your taste!

Final Thoughts

Butterfinger Puppy Chow is a delightful treat that’s perfect for parties or as a cozy snack at home. With its crunchy texture and sweet flavor, it’s hard not to love! Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite candies or mix-ins for endless variations. Give it a try!