Peanut Butter Bugle Bites Recipe

Peanut Butter Bugle Bites Recipe

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 (7 ounce) bag crunchy corn snacks (such as Bugles)
  • 1 cup lightly packed brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup butter
  • 2/3 cup peanut butter
  • 1/3 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • Flaky sea salt (optional)

Directions

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment or waxed paper. Spread the Bugles out evenly on the sheet.
  2. In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, peanut butter, and corn syrup. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a boil. Continue boiling for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
  3. Stir in the baking soda. Immediately pour the mixture over the Bugles, tossing quickly to coat them evenly. Spread the Bugles into a single layer on the baking sheet.
  4. In a separate small bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Melt the mixture in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until fully melted.
  5. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the Bugles, making sure they are evenly covered. Let the snack cool completely.
  6. For the best results, place the snack in the refrigerator for about 5 minutes to allow the chocolate to harden.
  7. Once cooled and hardened, break the snack into large pieces. Store in an airtight in a cool, dry place.

Cook's Note: You can store these treats in an airtight freezer bag in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Simply let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient Amount per serving % Daily Value*
Calories 360
Total Fat 21g 27%
Saturated Fat 10g 49%
Cholesterol 16mg 5%
Sodium 176mg 8%
Total Carbohydrate 44g 16%
Dietary Fiber 2g 8%
Total Sugars 37g
Protein 5g 10%
Vitamin C 0mg 0%
Calcium 34mg 3%
Iron 1mg 6%
Potassium 209mg 4%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Peanut Butter Bugle Bites

Author: Nicole McLaughlin

History and Origin

The origin of Peanut Butter Bugle Bites can be traced to the U.S., where the love for sweet and salty snacks continues to inspire creative culinary innovations. Bugles, the iconic cone-shaped corn snack, have been around since the 1960s, but the concept of combining them with peanut butter and chocolate has likely evolved more recently, as people sought new ways to enhance this already beloved snack. The combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and crispy Bugles quickly became a crowd-pleaser, perfect for sharing during family gatherings, holidays, or casual snacking.

Regional Variations

While the recipe for Peanut Butter Bugle Bites is popular across the U.S., it has found particular favor during Halloween and festive seasons, when sweet treats are abundant. The variations mostly arise in the type of chocolate usedsome prefer dark chocolate, others opt for milk chocolate or even white chocolate. Additionally, some versions of the recipe may incorporate a touch of cinnamon or chili powder for a more complex flavor profile, reflecting regional tastes that enjoy a bit of spice alongside the sweetness.

Comparison to Similar Dishes

Peanut Butter Bugle Bites are often compared to other popular sweet-and-salty snacks like peanut butter brittle or chocolate-covered pretzels. However, the unique shape of Bugles and the combination of peanut butter with a chocolate drizzle set them apart. While pretzels offer a salty base and brittle provides a crunchy, sugary sweetness, the Bugles in this recipe are light and airy, creating a different texture that melts in your mouth when paired with the creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate coating.

Where to Serve Peanut Butter Bugle Bites

Peanut Butter Bugle Bites are versatile and can be served at various events. They're particularly popular as a party snack, Halloween treat, or during the holiday season, where they offer a fun, easy-to-make alternative to traditional cookies or candy. They're perfect for casual gatherings, movie nights, or as a gift in a festive tin. Given their sweetness and the crunch of the Bugles, these bites are a hit for both children and adults alike.

Fun Facts

  • Bugles, the main ingredient in this snack, are one of the oldest snack foods still in production today, introduced by General Mills in 1966.
  • Peanut butter and chocolate are considered a classic pairing in American snacks, with a history dating back to the early 20th century.
  • These sweet and salty bites are not only easy to make but can also be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks, making them an excellent make-ahead snack for busy times.
  • If you're feeling adventurous, adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top enhances the sweet-salty contrast, creating a gourmet touch to this simple snack.

Nutrition Information:

  • Calories: 360 kcal
  • Fat: 21g
  • Carbs: 44g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Sugar: 37g

Note: For those who prefer a lower-sugar version, you can experiment with sugar substitutes or dark chocolate, which can balance out the sweetness.

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FAQ about Peanut Butter Bugle Bites Recipe

Store the Peanut Butter Bugle Bites in an airtight container at room temperature in a cool, dry place. They should stay fresh for about 1 week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in an airtight freezer bag for up to 2 weeks. Allow them to thaw at room temperature before serving.

Yes, you can substitute Bugles with other crunchy corn snacks like corn chips or similar snacks, though the texture and flavor may slightly differ.

Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter for added texture, but keep in mind that it will slightly alter the smoothness of the final coating.

You can use chopped chocolate or chocolate bars instead of chocolate chips. However, chocolate chips are ideal because they hold their shape when melted.

Coconut oil helps the chocolate coating set smoothly and adds a slight coconut flavor. If you prefer not to use coconut oil, you can melt the chocolate without it, but the texture might be a bit firmer.

The flaky sea salt adds a nice contrast to the sweetness of the peanut butter and chocolate, but it’s optional. You can skip it if you prefer a sweeter snack or use another type of salt.

For the best results, refrigerate the Peanut Butter Bugle Bites for about 5 minutes to allow the chocolate to fully harden.

Yes, you can double the recipe. Just be sure to adjust your cooking times accordingly and use a larger baking sheet to spread the Bugles evenly.