Butterfinger Puppy Chow Recipe: A Crispy, Chocolatey, Peanut-Buttery Snack Attack
Butterfinger Puppy Chow (also known as Muddy Buddies) is the ultimate no-bake snack that’s equal parts crunchy, sweet, and absolutely addictive. This twist on the classic treat takes the familiar combo of chocolate and peanut butter and kicks it up a notch with crushed Butterfinger candy mixed in. The result? A decadent coating over crispy cereal that hits all the right textures and flavors—sweet, salty, creamy, and crunchy. Perfect for movie nights, parties, game days, or as an edible gift, this snack comes together in minutes and disappears just as fast. If you’re a fan of Butterfingers and peanut butter, this easy treat will become your new go-to.
What Makes This Snack Special?
Butterfinger Puppy Chow takes the nostalgic charm of traditional muddy buddies and infuses it with the unmistakable crunch and caramel-peanut flavor of Butterfinger candy bars. It’s an elevated version of a childhood favorite with a bold, candy-packed flavor. Plus, it’s quick to make, requires no baking, and stores beautifully—perfect for make-ahead snacks and edible gifts.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (microwave)
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 10–12
Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Chex or Corn Chex cereal
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 ½ cups crushed Butterfinger bars (about 5 full-size bars)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cereal
Measure the Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl and set aside. Make sure the bowl is big enough for tossing everything later.
2. Melt the Chocolate Mixture
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is melted and smooth (about 1½ to 2 minutes total). Stir in the vanilla extract once melted.
3. Coat the Cereal
Pour the chocolate mixture over the cereal. Gently fold with a spatula until every piece is evenly coated. Be careful not to crush the cereal.
4. Add the Powdered Sugar and Butterfinger
Place the coated cereal in a large zip-top bag (or use a clean, large container with a lid). Add the powdered sugar and crushed Butterfinger. Seal the bag and shake vigorously until all pieces are fully coated.
5. Let It Set
Spread the finished puppy chow on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool and set for about 10 minutes. Once dry, transfer to a serving bowl or airtight container.
Variations
- Extra Crunchy: Add chopped roasted peanuts or pretzel sticks for more texture.
- White Chocolate Version: Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a lighter, creamier take.
- Holiday Twist: Toss in colored sprinkles or candy-coated chocolates to match the season.
- Double Butterfinger: Stir in additional Butterfinger chunks after shaking for extra bites of crunch.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Gallon-size zip-top bag or large container with lid
- Baking sheet with parchment paper
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)
- Calories: ~290
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 3g
- Sugar: 22g
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months in a sealed bag—great for make-ahead treats.
- Make Ahead: Can be made a few days in advance; just store in a cool, dry place.
My Cooking Experience
This recipe is one I come back to every holiday season and movie night. It’s a huge hit with kids and adults alike. The Butterfinger adds a nostalgic crunch that takes the whole snack to another level. I love gifting it in mason jars or treat bags—it’s always the first thing gone at the dessert table. Plus, it’s a fun recipe to make with kids since it doesn’t involve any baking.
Conclusion
Butterfinger Puppy Chow is the perfect sweet snack for when you need something quick, indulgent, and universally loved. It’s crispy, chocolatey, peanut-buttery, and totally addictive. Whether you’re making it for a party or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this easy no-bake treat is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Make a batch—you won’t regret it!
Butterfinger Puppy Chow
Ingredients
Method
- Measure the Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl and set aside. Make sure the bowl is big enough for tossing everything later.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is melted and smooth (about 1½ to 2 minutes total). Stir in the vanilla extract once melted.
- Pour the chocolate mixture over the cereal. Gently fold with a spatula until every piece is evenly coated. Be careful not to crush the cereal.
- Place the coated cereal in a large zip-top bag (or use a clean, large container with a lid). Add the powdered sugar and crushed Butterfinger. Seal the bag and shake vigorously until all pieces are fully coated.
- Spread the finished puppy chow on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool and set for about 10 minutes. Once dry, transfer to a serving bowl or airtight container.
Notes
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months in a sealed bag—great for make-ahead treats.
- Make Ahead: Can be made a few days in advance; just store in a cool, dry place.
