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Butterfinger Puppy Chow | Sweet, Crunchy & Irresistible Snack Mix

If you love classic Puppy Chow (aka Muddy Buddies) and Butterfinger candy bars, you’re in for a serious treat. This Butterfinger Puppy Chow combines the iconic crunchy cereal coated in melted chocolate and peanut butter with the nutty, crispy, peanut-buttery sweetness of Butterfinger bars. The result? An irresistible sweet snack mix that’s perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime you want a fun dessert-style snack. It’s quick to make, requires no baking, and is dangerously addictive. Each bite has the crunch of Chex cereal, the creamy chocolate-peanut butter coating, a dusting of powdered sugar, and pops of Butterfinger candy pieces mixed in. This will easily become one of your favorite no-bake snack recipes—let’s dive in!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 12 cups
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base:
  • 9 cups Rice Chex or Corn Chex cereal
Coating:
  • 1 ½ cups semisweet chocolate chips
  • ½ cup creamy peanut butter
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
Finish:
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
Mix-Ins:
  • 1 ½ cups chopped Butterfinger bars fun-size or full-size
  • Optional: 1 cup mini Reese’s Pieces or peanut butter chips for extra flair

✨ Kitchen Essentials You’ll Love

Quick picks I trust for better results, faster prep, and easier cleanup.

  • 🍳

    Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet

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  • ⚡

    Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric

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  • 🔥

    CHEFMAN Digital Air Fryer XL 10L

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Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Microwave-safe bowl (or double boiler)
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Large zip-top bag (or airtight container with lid)
  • Baking sheet lined with parchment paper

Method
 

Step 1: Prep Cereal Base
  1. Place Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for cooling.
Step 2: Melt Chocolate & Peanut Butter
  1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter.
  2. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth and melted.
  3. Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 3: Coat the Cereal
  1. Pour the chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the Chex cereal.
  2. Stir gently until all pieces are evenly coated.
Step 4: Powdered Sugar Toss
  1. Transfer coated cereal into a large zip-top bag.
  2. Add powdered sugar, seal, and shake until cereal is fully coated.
Step 5: Add Butterfinger Pieces
  1. Spread Puppy Chow on parchment paper to set.
  2. Once slightly cooled, fold in chopped Butterfinger pieces (and Reese’s Pieces, if using).
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
  1. Transfer to a serving bowl or package into bags for gifting.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Room Temperature: Store in airtight containers up to 1 week.
Freezer: Freeze in zip-top bags for up to 1 month.
Reheating: Not necessary—just thaw and snack.
🥄 Variations
Butterfinger Lovers’ Mix: Add extra chopped Butterfingers plus Butterfinger baking bits.
White Chocolate Butterfinger Chow: Swap semisweet chocolate for white chocolate.
Nut-Free: Use sunflower butter and swap Butterfinger for a nut-free candy.
Holiday Butterfinger Chow: Add holiday-colored M&Ms and sprinkles for festive flair.
Crunch Boost: Add pretzels or peanuts for extra salty balance.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use store-bought Butterfinger baking bits?
Yes, they work perfectly and save time chopping.
Do I have to use Chex cereal?
No, Crispix or Cheerios can work, but Chex holds the coating best.
Can I make this nut-free?
Use sunflower butter instead of peanut butter and swap Butterfinger for a nut-free candy.
Why powdered sugar?
It prevents sticking and gives the mix its signature sweet crunch.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, but creamy gives smoother coating.
How do I prevent clumps?
Shake with powdered sugar while still warm and spread to cool evenly.
Can I make this ahead for parties?
Absolutely—it stays fresh for up to a week.
Is this freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze up to a month and thaw before serving.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semisweet?
Yes, it will just be slightly sweeter.
How do I package this for gifts?
Clear treat bags tied with ribbon or mason jars with festive labels.
🏁 Conclusion
This Butterfinger Puppy Chow is a peanut-buttery, chocolatey, crunchy snack mix that combines everything you love about Puppy Chow with the iconic flavor of Butterfinger candy bars. It’s quick to make, no-bake, and dangerously addictive.
Perfect for parties, holidays, or gifting, this recipe will quickly become a go-to sweet snack in your kitchen. Make a double batch—you’ll thank yourself later!