If you have a sweet tooth and a love for the perfect bite-sized treat, this Butterfinger Balls Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine creamy peanut butter blended with powdered sugar and buttery softness, all studded with crunchy, finely crushed Butterfinger bars. These little balls of joy strike a glorious balance between rich, crunchy, and melt-in-your-mouth creamy, making them an irresistible snack or dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re whipping up something quick for a party or craving a nostalgic candy twist, these Butterfinger balls deliver delight one bite at a time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Butterfinger Balls Recipe lies in its deceptively simple ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in giving these treats their unique texture, flavor, and charm—no fancy additions required!
- Creamy peanut butter: The luscious base that brings richness and a smooth, nutty flavor.
- Unsalted butter, softened: Adds a velvety texture and enhances softness without overpowering the peanut butter.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the mixture while helping it hold together with a powdery touch.
- Vanilla extract: Offers a subtle warmth and depth that elevates every bite.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and sharpens the flavors beautifully.
- Butterfinger candy bars, finely crushed: The star ingredient that injects irresistible crunch and that unmistakable Butterfinger taste.
- Semisweet or milk chocolate, chopped (optional): Perfect for coating the balls in a gorgeously glossy shell that adds richness and keeps them nicely together.
How to Make Butterfinger Balls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture
Start by combining creamy peanut butter, softened unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer or whisk by hand until you achieve a smooth, fully blended consistency. This silky mixture forms the flavorful foundation for your Butterfinger balls, ensuring every bite is creamy and sweet without being overly dense.
Step 2: Incorporate the Butterfinger Bars
Next, gently fold in the finely crushed Butterfinger candy bars. Make sure to distribute them evenly throughout the peanut butter mixture. This step is what gives these treats their signature crunch and that nostalgic Butterfinger flavor everyone adores. It’s the perfect contrast to the smooth base.
Step 3: Form the Balls
Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking. Then, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them gently between your palms into neat little balls. Place them on the prepared sheet, making sure to space them slightly apart. These prepped mini spheres are ready for the next delicious step.
Step 4: Dip in Chocolate (Optional)
If you want to add an extra layer of indulgence, melt semisweet or milk chocolate over low heat on the stove, stirring constantly, or microwave it in short bursts, mixing frequently. Dip each Butterfinger ball into the melted chocolate using a fork or dipping tool to coat completely, then tap off any excess and place them back on the lined baking sheet. This chocolate shell adds a beautiful shine and decadent taste that pairs perfectly with the crunchy interior.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Pop the baking sheet into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set and the balls to firm up nicely. This chilling step is key to ensuring they hold their shape and offer a satisfying bite every time.
Step 6: Serve and Store
Once chilled, your Butterfinger Balls are ready to be enjoyed! Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. They stay fresh, tasty, and just as delightful as when you first made them.
How to Serve Butterfinger Balls Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor, consider sprinkling crushed Butterfinger bits, chopped peanuts, or a light drizzle of melted chocolate on top. These little finishing touches add visual appeal and a tasty crunch that’s sure to impress your guests.
Side Dishes
Butterfinger Balls pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a rich cup of coffee or hot cocoa. Their sweetness perfectly complements the warmth and creaminess of your favorite beverage, making for an unbeatable snack-time combo.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange these delightful Butterfinger balls on a decorative platter lined with festive tissue paper or serve them in mini cupcake liners for an adorable, party-ready presentation. You can also stack them in a glass jar or box as a lovely edible gift. Their bite-sized charm makes them incredibly versatile!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Butterfinger Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps them fresh and firm for up to a week, so you can enjoy their deliciousness whenever the craving strikes without worrying about them drying out or losing their crunch.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze your Butterfinger Balls. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Reheating
Since Butterfinger Balls are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, reheating isn’t recommended. If your chocolate coating softens too much after thawing, just pop them back in the fridge for a few minutes to firm up again before serving.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for this Butterfinger Balls Recipe?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture to your Butterfinger Balls, which can be quite enjoyable if you love a bit of crunch alongside the candy pieces.
Is it necessary to dip the balls in chocolate?
Not at all! The chocolate coating is optional and just adds an extra layer of richness and a smooth finish. The balls taste fantastic without it, especially if you want to keep things quick and simple.
How big should the balls be?
A tablespoon per ball is ideal. This size gives you that perfect bite-sized treat that’s rich but not overwhelming and allows them to set well in the fridge.
Can I substitute the Butterfinger candy bars with another candy?
You can experiment with other crunchy candy bars, but Butterfinger bars have a distinctive flaky texture and flavor that really make this recipe special. Substitutions might change the taste and texture significantly.
What’s the best way to crush Butterfinger bars for mixing?
Placing the bars in a sealed plastic bag and gently pounding with a rolling pin or using a food processor in short pulses works wonderfully. You want small, even pieces for that perfect crunch in every bite.
Final Thoughts
This Butterfinger Balls Recipe hits all the right notes when you need a sweet treat that’s easy, quick, and utterly delicious. It’s like having a nostalgic candy bar reinvented into a rich, creamy, crunchy bite that’s perfect for sharing or indulging solo. I can’t wait for you to try making these at home and see how quickly they disappear—trust me, they’re a crowd-pleaser every single time!
Print
Butterfinger Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Butterfinger Balls are a delicious no-bake treat combining creamy peanut butter, crushed Butterfinger candy bars, and an optional chocolate coating. Perfect for quick preparation, they offer a crunchy, sweet, and peanut buttery flavor in bite-sized form.
Ingredients
Peanut Butter Mixture
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Add-ins
- 6 Butterfinger candy bars, finely crushed
Optional Coating
- 12 ounces semisweet or milk chocolate, chopped (for dipping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until smooth and fully incorporated, using either an electric mixer or mixing by hand.
- Incorporate the Butterfinger Bars: Gently fold in the finely crushed Butterfinger candy bars ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the peanut butter mixture for consistent flavor and texture.
- Form the Balls: Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the peanut butter mixture and roll them into smooth balls. Arrange the balls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Dip in Chocolate (Optional): Melt the semisweet or milk chocolate either in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning, or use the microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. Dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate using a fork or dipping tool, coating them completely. Gently tap off any excess chocolate and place the coated balls back on the baking sheet.
- Chill and Set: Refrigerate the Butterfinger Balls for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate coating is firm and the balls have set properly, ensuring the texture is firm and easy to handle.
- Serve and Store: Once set, transfer the Butterfinger Balls to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness and flavor.
Notes
- You can skip the chocolate coating for a simpler, less sweet version.
- Crushing Butterfinger bars finely helps the balls hold their shape better.
- Ensure the butter is softened for easier mixing.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent melting and maintain freshness.
- Use a small scoop or tablespoon to make uniformly sized balls for even setting.
