Introduction
If you’re a chocolate and peanut butter enthusiast, you’re in for a delightful treat! These Butterfinger Balls are the perfect combination of crunchy, sweet, and creamy goodness. With their irresistible flavor and simple preparation, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing for a party, looking for a fun gift, or simply treating yourself, these delectable bites are a hit every time. My family absolutely adores them; they vanish quickly whenever I make a batch!
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
- Mix Ingredients: In a spacious bowl, combine the crushed Butterfinger candy bars, softened cream cheese, and if desired, a splash of vanilla extract. Mix until well blended.
- Form Balls: Using your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm them up.
- Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips following the package instructions. If desired, stir in the vegetable shortening to achieve a smoother consistency.
- Dip Balls: Once the Butterfinger balls are chilled, take them out of the refrigerator. Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Set and Enjoy: Arrange the coated balls on a parchment or wax paper-lined baking sheet. If you like, sprinkle some crushed Butterfinger or chocolate sprinkles on top for decoration before the chocolate sets. Allow them to sit until the chocolate has hardened.
Nutrition Facts
- Servings: Approximately 24 balls
- Calories per serving: About 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 2g
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
How to Serve
- Serve chilled for the best texture.
- Use a decorative platter to present your Butterfinger Balls.
- Pair with coffee or milk for a delightful treat.
- Garnish with additional sprinkles or chopped Butterfinger pieces for an extra touch.
Additional Tips
- Crushing Butterfingers: Ensure the candy bars are finely crushed for a consistent texture and easier mixing.
- Chill the Balls: Refrigerating the shaped balls for 30 minutes makes them firmer and easier to dip.
- Melting Chocolate: Stir the chocolate frequently while melting to avoid scorching.
- Smoother Coating: The optional vegetable shortening can help achieve a smoother chocolate coating.
- Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Recipe Variations
- Peanut Butter Variation: Substitute half of the cream cheese with peanut butter for a richer peanut flavor.
- Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a more intense chocolate flavor.
- Nut Topping: Roll the finished balls in chopped nuts for added crunch.
- Coconut Flakes: Coat the balls in toasted coconut flakes for a tropical twist.
- Mint Chocolate: Add a drop of peppermint extract to the chocolate for a minty flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Gift Packaging: These make fantastic gifts! Package them in a decorative tin or box.
- Party Platter: Include them on a dessert platter alongside other treats for a fun variety.
- Holiday Treats: Perfect for holidays—add seasonal sprinkles to match the occasion.
Freezing and Storage
- Freezing: These Butterfinger Balls freeze well! Place them in an airtight container and layer parchment paper between each layer. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
- Thawing: To enjoy, simply remove from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours.
FAQ Section
- Can I use other candy bars instead of Butterfinger?
- Yes! Feel free to substitute with any chocolate-covered candy bars you prefer.
- How do I know when the chocolate is melted?
- The chocolate should be smooth and pourable without any lumps. Stir every 30 seconds in the microwave until fully melted.
- Can I make these without cream cheese?
- You can replace cream cheese with peanut butter or a nut-free alternative like sunbutter.
- What’s the best way to crush Butterfinger bars?
- Place the bars in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin for a mess-free option.
- How long do these last in the fridge?
- They can last up to a week in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Can I make these gluten-free?
- Yes! Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or an alternative cookie crumb for the base.
- Is it necessary to chill the balls?
- Yes, chilling helps them maintain their shape during dipping.
- What if the chocolate hardens before I dip all the balls?
- You can reheat the chocolate gently in the microwave to make it pourable again.
- Can I add flavoring to the chocolate?
- Absolutely! You can add vanilla or almond extract for extra flavor.
- What’s the best way to store leftovers?
- Store them in an airtight container in the fridge or freeze them for longer shelf life.
Conclusion
Butterfinger Balls are a delightful treat that captures the essence of chocolate and peanut butter in every bite. With their simple ingredients and straightforward process, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them at home or sharing with friends, these sweet bites are sure to impress. So go ahead, whip up a batch and indulge in the deliciousness—your taste buds will thank you!
PrintButterfinger Balls 🥜🍫
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Calling all chocolate and peanut butter lovers! These Butterfinger Balls are a heavenly treat that combines the crunchy, peanut buttery goodness of Butterfinger candy bars with creamy chocolate. Perfect for parties, gifts, or just because you deserve a sweet treat! 😍
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
- Mix Ingredients: In a spacious bowl, mix together the crushed Butterfinger candy bars and cream cheese until well combined.
- Form Balls: Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Melt Chocolate: Follow the package instructions to melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips. If using, add the vegetable shortening for a smoother consistency.
- Dip Balls: Take the chilled balls from the refrigerator and dip them into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Set and Enjoy: Arrange the coated balls on parchment or wax paper and allow them to sit until the chocolate has set. Optionally, decorate with sprinkles before the chocolate sets.
Notes
- Ensure the candy bars are finely crushed for a consistent texture.
- Refrigerate the shaped balls for 30 minutes to make dipping easier.
- Adding sprinkles can enhance the visual appeal of your Butterfinger Balls.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Butterfinger Ball
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg