Butterfinger Balls
Indulge your taste buds with these irresistible Butterfinger Balls, where creamy peanut butter harmoniously melds with the crunch of graham crackers and Butterfinger candy bars, all cloaked in sumptuous melted chocolate. Perfect for social soirées and festive occasions, these heavenly morsels will vanish before you know it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delightful treats in no time.
- No-Bake Treats: Enjoy the simplicity of no-baking required, making this recipe a breeze for any home cook.
- Versatile & Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or adjust sweetness to suit your taste. These Butterfinger Balls can be personalized!
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties or family gatherings, everyone will love the unique flavor combination of peanut butter and Butterfinger.
- Fun to Make: Get the kids involved in rolling the balls and decorating them for an enjoyable cooking experience.
Tools and Preparation
To create these delicious Butterfinger Balls, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Cookie sheet
- Parchment paper
- Microwave-safe bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients efficiently without spills.
- Electric mixer or stand mixer: Using an electric mixer helps achieve a creamy texture quickly, ensuring all ingredients blend seamlessly.
- Cookie sheet: A reliable cookie sheet provides a flat surface for chilling your Butterfinger Balls before coating them in chocolate.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make these delightful Butterfinger Balls:
- 4 tablespoons softened butter (½ stick)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 ounces chocolate bark or chocolate chips
- ½ cup Butterfinger bars (crushed)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup peanut butter (avoid all-natural varieties)
- ¾ cup crumbs from graham crackers
- Optional garnishes: additional crushed Butterfinger bars (festive sprinkles, or coarse sea salt)
How to Make Butterfinger Balls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and softened butter. Use an electric or stand mixer set to medium speed and blend until the mixture is creamy and uniform.
Step 2: Add Aromatic Notes
Incorporate the vanilla extract into the mixture and blend thoroughly until well combined.
Step 3: Sweeten the Deal
Gradually add the powdered sugar in increments while blending at a low speed. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
Step 4: Crunch Time
Gently fold in the graham cracker crumbs and crushed Butterfinger bars, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 5: Shape ’em Up
Line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper. Scoop out approximately 1 to 1½ tablespoons of dough, roll into neat balls, and place them on the cookie sheet.
Step 6: Chilling Phase
Freeze the dough balls on the sheet for about 30 minutes until they are completely firm.
Step 7: Melting the Chocolate
Once chilled, it’s time to melt your chocolate.
Step 8: Chocolate Symphony
Utilize a microwave-safe bowl to melt your chocolate bark or chips. Heat in 30-second spurts at 50% power, stirring after each interval. Be careful not to overheat; some lumps should remain as they will melt when stirred.
Step 9: Coat and Decorate
Submerge each chilled ball into the luscious melted chocolate. You can choose to fully coat them or leave a bit of the peanut butter mixture exposed for a beautiful presentation.
Step 10: Finishing Touches
Sprinkle additional crushed Butterfinger bars, festive sprinkles, or a dash of flaky sea salt on top for that extra pop of flavor and color.
Step 11: The Grand Finale
Allow the chocolate coating to solidify completely before indulging in your delectable Butterfinger Balls. Enjoy every bite!
How to Serve Butterfinger Balls
Butterfinger Balls are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. These sweet bites are perfect for parties, holidays, or just as a special dessert at home. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your experience.
As Party Favors
- Create small gift bags filled with Butterfinger Balls. Tie them with festive ribbons for a delightful party favor that guests can take home.
On a Dessert Platter
- Arrange the Butterfinger Balls on a colorful platter alongside other desserts like cookies and brownies. This creates an eye-catching display at any gathering.
With Ice Cream
- Serve Butterfinger Balls on top of a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. The combination of flavors and textures will impress your guests.
At Holiday Gatherings
- Place Butterfinger Balls in decorative bowls during holiday parties. They make an inviting addition to any festive table setting.
With Coffee or Tea
- Pair these delicious balls with a cup of coffee or tea for a sweet afternoon treat. The rich flavors complement each other perfectly.
How to Perfect Butterfinger Balls
To get the best results from your Butterfinger Balls, consider these helpful tips for perfection.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and peanut butter are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
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Chill Thoroughly: Allow the balls to chill completely before dipping them in chocolate. This helps maintain their shape during coating.
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Quality Chocolate Matters: Choose high-quality chocolate or chocolate bark for melting. It enhances the overall flavor of your Butterfinger Balls.
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Experiment with Coatings: Try rolling some balls in crushed nuts or sprinkles after coating them in chocolate for added crunch and visual appeal.
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Store Properly: Keep leftover Butterfinger Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Butterfinger Balls
While Butterfinger Balls are incredibly delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:
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Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with berries and citrus balances the sweetness of the Butterfinger Balls.
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Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip fruits and other treats alongside their Butterfinger Balls.
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Cheese Platter: Include a variety of cheeses with crackers to provide savory bites that contrast well with the sweetness.
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Mini Cupcakes: Serve mini cupcakes in different flavors to create a fun dessert spread that pairs nicely with Butterfinger Balls.
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Coffee Cake: A slice of moist coffee cake complements the richness of the dessert while providing a comforting option.
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Nut Mixes: Offer assorted nut mixes as a crunchy snack that enhances the overall texture experience when enjoying your sweets.
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Cookies & Brownies: Classic cookies or fudgy brownies will round out your dessert table beautifully, offering variety for every palate.
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Ice Cream Floats: Create ice cream floats using soda or sparkling water topped with whipped cream, which pairs perfectly with these sweet treats.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Butterfinger Balls can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the Chilling Step: Not freezing the dough before coating can result in messy balls that lose their shape. Always chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Overheating Chocolate: Melting chocolate too quickly can cause it to seize. Use low power and heat in increments while stirring.
- Using Natural Peanut Butter: All-natural peanut butter can alter the texture and consistency. Stick with classic peanut butter for best results.
- Ignoring Measurements: Improper measurements can ruin the balance of flavors and textures. Always measure your ingredients accurately.
- Neglecting Decorations: A sprinkle of crushed Butterfinger bars or sea salt adds a delightful touch. Don’t skip this step for an extra flavor boost!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Butterfinger Balls in an airtight container in the fridge.
- They will stay fresh for up to one week.
Freezing Butterfinger Balls
- For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a cookie sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
- They can be stored for up to three months.
Reheating Butterfinger Balls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes until slightly softened.
- Microwave: Heat each ball for 10-15 seconds on medium power; check frequently to avoid melting too much.
- Stovetop: Gently heat in a pan over low heat, flipping occasionally until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Butterfinger Balls.
What are Butterfinger Balls?
Butterfinger Balls are delicious treats made from peanut butter, crushed graham crackers, and Butterfinger candy bars, all coated in chocolate.
How long do Butterfinger Balls last?
Properly stored in the refrigerator, they last about a week, while frozen they can stay good for up to three months.
Can I customize my Butterfinger Balls?
Absolutely! You can add different toppings like nuts or sprinkles, or even try using different types of chocolate for coating.
Are Butterfinger Balls gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free graham crackers, these treats can easily be made gluten-free.
Can I use other candies instead of Butterfingers?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with other candy bars that you enjoy or have on hand.
Final Thoughts
Butterfinger Balls are perfect for any occasion, bringing joy and satisfaction with every bite. Their creamy texture combined with a crunchy finish makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize these treats with your favorite toppings or candies to make them your own!
Butterfinger Balls
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich, creamy delight of Butterfinger Balls, a no-bake treat combining smooth peanut butter, crunchy graham crackers, and crushed Butterfinger bars, all enveloped in luscious melted chocolate. In just 15 minutes of prep, you can create these irresistible morsels that are perfect for parties or family gatherings. With their unique flavor profile and easy customization options, Butterfinger Balls are sure to be a hit with everyone. Get the kids involved for an enjoyable cooking experience, and watch these delightful bites disappear before your eyes!
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons softened butter
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ¾ cup graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup crushed Butterfinger bars
- 8 ounces chocolate bark or chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, blend softened butter and peanut butter until smooth.
- Mix in vanilla extract thoroughly.
- Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing at low speed. Scrape the sides to mix evenly.
- Fold in graham cracker crumbs and crushed Butterfinger bars until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into balls (1 to 1½ tablespoons each) and place on a parchment-lined cookie sheet.
- Freeze for about 30 minutes until firm.
- Melt chocolate bark or chips in a microwave-safe bowl using low heat in increments.
- Coat each ball in melted chocolate and decorate with additional toppings if desired.
- Allow the coating to set before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
