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
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, making Butterfinger Balls is a breeze for bakers of all levels.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and Butterfinger candy creates a delightful explosion of flavors.
- Versatile Treat: These treats are perfect for parties, holidays, or even as a sweet snack during movie nights.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve the kids in making these treats; they’ll love rolling the balls and decorating them.
Tools and Preparation
To ensure your Butterfinger Balls come out perfectly, gather a few essential tools. These will make your preparation easier and more efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric or stand mixer
- Cookie sheet
- Parchment paper
- Microwave-safe bowl for melting chocolate
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl allows you to mix ingredients thoroughly without spills.
- Electric or stand mixer: This tool helps achieve a smooth, creamy texture quickly, saving time and effort.
- Cookie sheet: Provides a flat surface to freeze the dough balls evenly.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup hassle-free.
Ingredients
For the Base Mix:
- 4 tablespoons softened butter (½ stick)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup peanut butter (avoid all-natural varieties)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
For the Crunch:
- ¾ cup crumbs from graham crackers
- ½ cup Butterfinger bars (crushed)
For Coating:
- 8 ounces chocolate bark or chocolate chips
Optional Garnishes:
- Additional crushed Butterfinger bars
- Festive sprinkles
- 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. Blend thoroughly until combined.
Step 3: Sweeten the Deal
Gradually add the powdered sugar, 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. Mix until just combined.
Step 5: Shape ’em Up
Align a large cookie sheet with parchment paper. Scoop out approximately 1 to 1½ tablespoons of the dough, roll them into neat balls, and place on the cookie sheet.
Step 6: Chilling Phase
Freeze the dough balls on the sheet for roughly 30 minutes until they are completely firm.
Step 7: Melting the Chocolate
Once chilled, proceed to melt your chocolate. Use a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second spurts at 50% power while stirring in between each interval. Be cautious not to overheat; some lumps should remain as they will melt while stirring.
Step 8: Coat and Decorate
Submerge each chilled ball into the luscious melted chocolate. You can fully coat them or leave part of the peanut butter mixture exposed for added texture.
Step 9: Finishing Touches
Sprinkle additional crushed Butterfinger bars, holiday-themed sprinkles, or a dash of flaky sea salt on top for that extra pop of flavor.
Step 10: The Grand Finale
Allow the chocolate coating to solidify completely before enjoying your delightful Butterfinger Balls!
Servings: 20 Balls
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Keywords: Butterfinger Balls
How to Serve Butterfinger Balls
Butterfinger Balls are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging at home, these suggestions will elevate your experience.
For a Sweet Snack
- Party Platter: Arrange Butterfinger Balls on a colorful platter for a stunning centerpiece at gatherings.
- Dessert Table Addition: Include them alongside other sweets like cookies and cupcakes for a diverse dessert experience.
With Coffee or Tea
- Afternoon Treat: Serve Butterfinger Balls with your afternoon coffee or tea for an indulgent break.
- Pair with Hot Chocolate: Enjoy them alongside a warm cup of hot chocolate for the ultimate cozy experience.
As Gifts
- Gift Boxes: Package Butterfinger Balls in decorative boxes as sweet gifts for friends and family.
- Holiday Treats: Use them as festive treats during holidays by adding themed wrapping or ornaments.
At Celebrations
- Birthday Parties: These delicious bites make perfect party favors for birthdays.
- Holiday Gatherings: Add them to your holiday dessert spread to impress your guests.
How to Perfect Butterfinger Balls
To achieve the best Butterfinger Balls, consider these tips that will enhance both flavor and presentation.
- Choice of Peanut Butter: Use creamy peanut butter instead of natural varieties for the best texture and flavor.
- Chill Time Matters: Ensure you freeze the balls long enough so they hold their shape when coated in chocolate.
- Even Coating Technique: Dip the balls gently in melted chocolate to avoid breaking them apart while coating.
- Sprinkle Creativity: Experiment with different toppings like crushed nuts or colored sprinkles for added flair.
- Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness and taste.
Best Side Dishes for Butterfinger Balls
While Butterfinger Balls are delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary sides can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options:
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: Fresh strawberries dipped in chocolate add a fruity contrast to the rich flavors of Butterfinger Balls.
- Mini Cheesecakes: The creamy texture of mini cheesecakes pairs well with the crunchy elements of Butterfinger Balls.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances out the sweetness and provides a light option amidst indulgence.
- Ice Cream Sundaes: Top ice cream sundaes with crumbled Butterfinger Bars for a fun twist on classic desserts.
- Brownie Bites: Rich brownie bites complement the texture of Butterfinger Balls, making for a decadent duo.
- Pecan Pie Bites: These mini pies offer an extra crunch that matches well with the smoothness of peanut butter and chocolate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Butterfinger Balls, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to look out for and how to steer clear of them.
- Using all-natural peanut butter: All-natural varieties can be too oily and won’t hold the mixture together well. Stick with regular peanut butter for the best texture.
- Not chilling the dough balls: Skipping the chilling step can lead to a messy coating process. Always freeze them for at least 30 minutes before dipping in chocolate.
- Overheating the chocolate: Melting chocolate too quickly can cause it to seize up. Use short bursts in the microwave and stir regularly to keep it smooth.
- Neglecting to scrape down the bowl: Failing to scrape down the sides of your mixing bowl may result in uneven mixing. Make sure to do this step while adding powdered sugar.
- Forgetting optional garnishes: Missing out on garnishes like crushed Butterfinger bars or sprinkles can make your dessert less visually appealing. Don’t skip this finishing touch!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking.
Freezing Butterfinger Balls
- Freeze in a single layer on a cookie sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
- They will keep well for up to three months.
Reheating Butterfinger Balls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on low power in 10-second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Gently reheat in a non-stick pan over low heat, turning frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Butterfinger Balls that might help you.
What are Butterfinger Balls?
Butterfinger Balls are delicious treats made from peanut butter, crushed Butterfinger bars, and graham cracker crumbs, all coated in chocolate.
How long do Butterfinger Balls last?
When stored properly, they last up to one week in the refrigerator or about three months in the freezer.
Can I customize my Butterfinger Balls?
Absolutely! You can add different types of crushed candy or nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Are Butterfinger Balls gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free graham crackers, then yes! Just check the label to ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I make these without chocolate?
Yes, you can skip the chocolate coating for a lighter version, though they might not have that rich finish.
Final Thoughts
Butterfinger Balls are a delightful treat that combines sweet and salty flavors with creamy textures. They’re perfect for parties or just a cozy night at home. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings or mix-ins. Enjoy creating these heavenly bites!
Butterfinger Balls
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the delightful world of Butterfinger Balls, where creamy peanut butter meets the satisfying crunch of graham crackers and Butterfinger candy, all enveloped in rich melted chocolate. These sweet treats are not only easy to make but also perfect for any occasion—be it parties, family gatherings, or cozy nights at home. With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and minimal ingredients, you’ll find yourself whipping up these irresistible delights in no time. Their rich flavor profile will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons softened butter
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ¾ cup graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup crushed Butterfinger bars
- 8 ounces chocolate bark or chocolate chips
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and peanut butter until creamy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and blend well.
- Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing at low speed; scrape down the sides to ensure even blending.
- Fold in graham cracker crumbs and crushed Butterfinger bars until just combined.
- Roll mixture into balls (about 1 to 1½ tablespoons each) and place on a parchment-lined cookie sheet.
- Freeze the balls for about 30 minutes until firm.
- Melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring frequently.
- Dip each chilled ball into melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
- Add garnishes like crushed Butterfinger or sprinkles before the chocolate sets.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball (22g)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
