Butterfinger Puppy Chow

Butterfinger Puppy Chow is a fun and addictive treat that combines the flavors of chocolate and Butterfinger candy with crunchy Chex cereal. Perfect for parties, game nights, or just a sweet snack at home, this dish offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes. Its ease of preparation makes it suitable for all skill levels, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this irresistible dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this treat in no time.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chocolate, peanut butter, and Butterfinger creates a sweet explosion in every bite.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or movie night, Butterfinger Puppy Chow is always a hit.
• Easy Cleanup: Using ziplock bags for coating means less mess and easier cleanup after you’re done.
• Customizable Mix-ins: Feel free to add your favorite candies or nuts for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

Tools and Preparation

To make Butterfinger Puppy Chow efficiently, having the right tools will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Double boiler or microwave
• Mixing bowls
• Ziplock bags (gallon size)
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Double boiler or microwave: Essential for melting chocolate safely without burning it.
• Mixing bowls: Needed for combining ingredients without spilling.
• Ziplock bags: Great for shaking the cereal with powdered sugar without making a mess.

Ingredients

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

For the Chocolate Coating

• 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

• 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 a double boiler or microwave in short increments. Stir continuously to prevent burning. Once melted, remove from heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Butter

In another bowl, gently warm peanut butter in the microwave until it becomes liquidy.

Step 3: Chop the Butterfinger Bars

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

Step 4: Coat Cereal with Chocolate

Combine 2 cups of the cereal with the melted chocolate. Stir softly to coat. Then add half of the chopped candy bars and mix gently.

Step 5: Coat Cereal with Peanut Butter

Take another 2 cups of cereal. Mix it with the melted peanut butter and fold in the remaining chopped candy bars carefully.

Step 6: Shake with Powdered Sugar – Chocolate Coated

In a gallon ziplock bag, combine 1/2 cup powdered sugar and the chocolate-coated cereal. Seal the bag (allowing air inside), then shake until coated.

Step 7: Shake with Powdered Sugar – Peanut Butter Coated

Repeat the process with the peanut butter cereal in a second gallon ziplock bag along with the remaining powdered sugar.

Step 8: Combine Everything Together

Once coated, mix both cereal blends in a large bowl. Add the BUTTERFINGER® Peanut Butter Cup Minis. Serve and enjoy!

How to Serve Butterfinger Puppy Chow

Butterfinger Puppy Chow is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in several fun and creative ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging at home, serving this sweet snack can be made even more enjoyable with the right presentation.

In Individual Cups

• Use small cups or bowls to serve individual portions. This makes it easy for guests to grab and enjoy without mess.

As Party Favors

• Package Butterfinger Puppy Chow in clear bags tied with ribbons. They make charming take-home gifts for guests at parties or gatherings.

With Ice Cream

• Serve a scoop of Butterfinger Puppy Chow over vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that adds crunch and flavor.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Incorporate Butterfinger Puppy Chow into a dessert charcuterie board. Pair it with fruits, chocolates, and other snacks for a visually appealing spread.

During Movie Nights

• Place a big bowl of Butterfinger Puppy Chow on your coffee table for movie night. It’s the perfect crunchy snack to munch on while watching your favorite films.

How to Perfect Butterfinger Puppy Chow

To achieve the best results when making Butterfinger Puppy Chow, follow these helpful tips. With just a few adjustments, you can elevate your snack game!

• Use Quality Chocolate: Choose high-quality semi-sweet or milk chocolate for better flavor and smooth melting.

• Warm Peanut Butter Gently: Heat peanut butter slowly in the microwave to ensure it becomes liquid without overheating, which can affect its texture.

• Coat Evenly: Stir gently but thoroughly when mixing cereal with chocolate and peanut butter to ensure every piece is evenly coated.

• Seal Bags Tightly: When shaking the powdered sugar with cereal in bags, make sure they are sealed tightly to prevent spillage.

• Mix Varieties: Don’t hesitate to combine different types of Chex cereals for additional textures and flavors in your puppy chow.

Best Side Dishes for Butterfinger Puppy Chow

While Butterfinger Puppy Chow stands beautifully on its own, pairing it with certain side dishes can enhance the overall experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Fruit Skewers: Colorful fruit skewers provide a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the puppy chow. Use strawberries, pineapple, and grapes for variety.

2. Popcorn: A light popcorn seasoned with salt or caramel complements the rich flavors of puppy chow perfectly. Consider adding some crushed candies for extra sweetness!

3. Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses such as cheddar or brie alongside your puppy chow to create an interesting contrast between sweet and savory.

4. Mini Brownie Bites: These fudgy treats add another layer of indulgence when served with puppy chow, making them ideal for dessert tables.

5. Veggie Sticks: Crunchy veggie sticks like carrots or celery add freshness and balance out the richness of your sweet treat.

6. Dips: Consider serving creamy dips like chocolate ganache or peanut butter dip as accompaniments that guests can use to enhance their snacking experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Butterfinger Puppy Chow is fun, but there are a few mistakes you should watch out for.

• Skipping the double boiler: Using a microwave without careful monitoring can lead to burnt chocolate. Always melt chocolate using a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring continuously.
• Overheating the peanut butter: Heating peanut butter for too long may cause it to separate. Warm it just enough until it becomes liquidy for easy mixing.
• Not chopping the candy bars correctly: Large pieces of BUTTERFINGER® bars won’t mix well. Ensure you chop them into small pieces for even distribution in your Puppy Chow.
• Using the wrong cereal: Not all cereals work equally well. Stick with Rice or Corn Chex for the best texture and flavor.
• Neglecting to shake well: Failing to shake the ziplock bag thoroughly can leave some pieces uncoated. Make sure to seal the bag and shake until everything is well coated.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Butterfinger Puppy Chow in an airtight container.
• It will last for 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 2 months without losing its flavor.

Reheating Butterfinger Puppy Chow

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread it on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes until warmed.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 10-15 seconds, stirring between each interval until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick pan over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Butterfinger Puppy Chow that might help you enjoy this sweet treat even more.

What is Butterfinger Puppy Chow?

Butterfinger Puppy Chow is a delightful snack mix made from Chex cereal, melted chocolate, peanut butter, and crushed Butterfinger candy bars.

How long does it take to make Butterfinger Puppy Chow?

The preparation and cooking time combined is about 25 minutes, making it a quick and easy dessert option.

Can I customize my Butterfinger Puppy Chow?

Absolutely! You can add other candies, nuts, or even different flavored cereals to create your unique mix.

How should I store leftover Butterfinger Puppy Chow?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Is Butterfinger Puppy Chow suitable for sharing?

Definitely! This recipe serves about eight cups, perfect for parties or as gifts for friends and family.

Final Thoughts

Butterfinger Puppy Chow offers a perfect blend of sweet and crunchy flavors that everyone will love. It’s versatile—you can easily customize it with different ingredients based on your preferences. Give this delightful snack a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!