Butterfinger Balls

Introduction

I recently made a batch of Butterfinger Balls for a family gathering, and I have to say, they were an instant hit! These little bites of heaven combine the rich, creamy flavor of peanut butter with the irresistible crunch of Butterfinger candy bars, all coated in smooth, melty chocolate. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a fun homemade gift, or just treating yourself, these Butterfinger Balls are the perfect indulgence. My family couldn’t get enough of them, and I’m sure you’ll love them just as much.

Ingredients

• 2 cups crushed Butterfinger candy bars (about 16 fun-sized bars)
• 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 tbsp optional vegetable shortening for smoother dipping
• Optional: Butterfinger or chocolate sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

1. Mix Ingredients: In a spacious bowl, combine the crushed Butterfinger candy bars, softened cream cheese, and any additional ingredients such as graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and peanut butter. Stir the mixture until it is evenly combined, and the ingredients are well blended.
2. Form Balls: Take the mixture and form it into 1-inch balls. Lay them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm them up and make dipping easier.
3. Melt Chocolate: While the balls are chilling, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted. If desired, add a tablespoon of vegetable shortening to the melted chocolate for a smoother consistency when dipping.
4. Dip Balls: After the balls have chilled, dip each one into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is completely coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off.
5. Set and Enjoy: Place the chocolate-covered balls back on the parchment paper and allow them to set. If you’re adding sprinkles for decoration, do so while the chocolate is still slightly warm. Let the balls sit until the chocolate has fully set.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 24 balls
• Calories per serving: 180 kcal
• Total Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 16g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 15mg
• Sodium: 35mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• At a Party: Arrange the Butterfinger Balls on a platter or dessert table for a delicious treat that will disappear fast.
• As a Gift: These make fantastic homemade gifts. Package them in a decorative box or jar for a sweet, thoughtful present.
• For Movie Night: Serve these alongside popcorn for the perfect movie snack combination.
• With Coffee or Tea: Pair with your favorite hot beverage for a satisfying treat during your afternoon break.
• As a Snack: Enjoy one or two of these balls as a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.

Additional Tips

1. Crush the Butterfingers Finely: For a consistent texture, make sure the Butterfinger candy bars are crushed into small, uniform pieces.
2. Chill the Balls: After forming the balls, chill them for 30 minutes to make dipping easier and ensure they hold their shape better.
3. Use High-Quality Chocolate: Opt for semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate for a rich, well-balanced flavor.
4. Optional Shortening: Adding vegetable shortening to the melted chocolate will make the coating smoother and shinier, making the balls look more polished.
5. Decorate with Sprinkles: For an extra touch of flair, decorate the chocolate-coated balls with Butterfinger crumbs or colorful sprinkles.

Recipe Variations

• Peanut Butter Version: For an extra peanut butter punch, add a tablespoon of peanut butter to the mixture alongside the cream cheese.
• Almond Joy Balls: Substitute the Butterfingers with chopped almonds or coconut and dip in milk chocolate for a twist.
• Dark Chocolate Coating: Swap the semi-sweet chocolate for dark chocolate for a slightly more bitter, sophisticated flavor.
• Nut-Free Version: If you need a nut-free version, replace the Butterfingers with crushed non-nut candy bars, or use a graham cracker crust mixture for a different texture.
• Vegan Version: Use vegan cream cheese and vegan chocolate chips for a dairy-free alternative.

Serving Suggestions

• For Dessert Buffets: Serve these Butterfinger Balls alongside other chocolate treats like brownies, cookies, or fudge for a candy lover’s dream buffet.
• For Special Occasions: These are perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration. Package them in a gift box and tie with a ribbon for an elegant touch.
• With Milk: Serve with a cold glass of milk for a nostalgic pairing.
• At Bake Sales: They are easy to transport and will be a hit at any bake sale or potluck.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Butterfinger Balls freeze wonderfully. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave them in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
• Storing: These balls will stay fresh for up to 1 week if stored in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also leave them at room temperature for up to 3 days, but they’ll last longer in the fridge.
• Keep Them Safe: Ensure the chocolate coating is firm and completely set before storing to avoid smudging or sticking.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?
   Yes, you can swap it, but the overall sweetness will be different. Semi-sweet chocolate adds a nice balance to the rich peanut butter and Butterfinger flavor.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, these can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge.
3. Do I have to chill the balls before dipping?
   Chilling the balls helps them keep their shape and makes the dipping process easier. If you skip this step, the balls may fall apart in the chocolate.
4. Can I use peanut butter instead of Butterfingers?
   You can, but the texture and taste will be quite different. The Butterfinger provides a crunchy texture that peanut butter doesn’t.
5. Can I add more chocolate to the balls?
   You can drizzle extra chocolate on top after the balls are dipped or melt chocolate into the mixture for a more decadent bite.
6. How do I make sure the chocolate coating is smooth?
   Make sure the chocolate is fully melted and add a tablespoon of shortening to make it smoother when coating the balls.
7. Can I use almond bark instead of chocolate chips?
   Yes, almond bark is an excellent option. Just make sure to melt it properly and use it to coat the balls.
8. How long will the Butterfinger Balls last?
   These treats will last up to 1 week in the fridge or 3 days at room temperature.
9. Can I add other candy bars to the mixture?
   Absolutely! Chopped Snickers or Milky Way bars can be a fun variation.
10. How can I make them less sweet?
    You can reduce the amount of powdered sugar or switch to a darker chocolate for a less sweet treat.

Conclusion

Butterfinger Balls are the perfect blend of crunchy, creamy, and sweet flavors that every chocolate and peanut butter lover will appreciate. Easy to make and even easier to eat, these balls are a fun treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a party, giving them as gifts, or enjoying them as a personal indulgence, they are sure to satisfy your cravings. Follow the simple steps, customize with your favorite toppings, and get ready to enjoy a decadent dessert everyone will love!

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