🍫🥜 Butterfinger Balls — No-Bake Peanut Butter & Chocolate Perfection
These Butterfinger Balls combine creamy peanut butter, buttery graham cracker crumbs, and crunchy Butterfinger candy, all wrapped in a smooth chocolate coating. They’re an easy, no-bake dessert perfect for holidays, parties, edible gifts, or a quick sweet fix. The mix of creamy, crunchy, and chocolaty textures makes them irresistible! 🎉
Why This Recipe Works
- ✅ No-bake simplicity: No oven needed — perfect for quick preparation.
- ✅ Classic flavors: Chocolate, peanut butter, and Butterfinger — a match made in dessert heaven.
- ✅ Perfect for gifting: Pack them in pretty boxes or jars for homemade holiday treats.
- ✅ Freezer-friendly: Make ahead and store for weeks.
Ingredients 🛒
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Softened butter | 4 tablespoons (½ stick) |
Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
Chocolate bark or chocolate chips | 8 ounces |
Crushed Butterfinger bars | ½ cup |
Powdered sugar | 1 cup |
Peanut butter (avoid all-natural) | 1 cup |
Graham cracker crumbs | ¾ cup |
Optional garnishes | Extra crushed Butterfinger, sprinkles, or coarse sea salt |
Step-by-Step Instructions 👨🏾🍳
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine peanut butter and softened butter. Beat with an electric mixer until creamy. Add vanilla extract and blend well. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until incorporated. Fold in graham cracker crumbs and crushed Butterfinger bars until evenly distributed.
Step 2: Shape & Chill
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop out about 1 to 1½ tablespoons of dough per ball and roll until smooth. Place on the sheet and freeze for 30 minutes until firm.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate bark or chips in 30-second intervals at 50% power, stirring between each burst until smooth. Avoid overheating.
Step 4: Coat & Decorate
Dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, coating completely or partially. Immediately sprinkle with crushed Butterfinger, sprinkles, or sea salt if desired.
Step 5: Set & Store
Allow chocolate to harden completely at room temperature or return to the freezer for a few minutes. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Expert Chef Tips 👩🍳
- Ina Garten: “Use high-quality chocolate for the coating — it makes a big difference in flavor.”
- Bobby Flay: “Chill the balls thoroughly before dipping to prevent them from falling apart.”
- Gordon Ramsay: “Add a pinch of sea salt after dipping — it will balance the sweetness and enhance the chocolate.”
Health & Safety Tips 🩺
- Ensure hands and utensils are clean to prevent contamination when making no-bake desserts.
- For nut allergies, substitute sunflower seed butter and skip the Butterfinger candy.
- Store chilled to maintain texture and freshness.
Nutrition Information (per ball, approx. 20 balls total)
Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Sugar | Fiber |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
140 kcal | 3g | 14g | 8g | 11g | 1g |
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
- Serve with homemade hot chocolate for a cozy winter treat.
- Package in decorative tins for DIY holiday gifts.
- Pair with other peanut butter desserts for a dessert platter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) ❓
- Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, they store well for up to a week in the fridge.
- Can I freeze Butterfinger Balls? Absolutely — freeze for up to 2 months in an airtight container.
- What’s the best chocolate to use? Semi-sweet or milk chocolate, depending on your sweetness preference.
- Can I use all-natural peanut butter? Not recommended — it can cause the mixture to be too oily and loose.
- Can I skip graham crackers? Yes, but the texture will be softer.
- How do I make them dairy-free? Use dairy-free butter and vegan chocolate.
- Do they need to be refrigerated? Yes, especially if your kitchen is warm.
- Can I coat them in white chocolate? Yes, for a fun flavor twist.
- What size should I make them? About 1-inch balls are perfect for bite-sized treats.
- How do I prevent chocolate from seizing? Melt at low heat and keep water away from the chocolate.
Final Thoughts
Butterfinger Balls are the perfect bite-sized indulgence — creamy, crunchy, and irresistibly chocolaty. Whether you’re making them for a party, holiday, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, they’re simple, versatile, and guaranteed to disappear fast. 🍫🥜