Butterfinger Balls

Introduction

If you’re a fan of chocolate and peanut butter, this treat is a must-try! Butterfinger Balls combine the irresistible crunch of Butterfinger candy bars with smooth, creamy chocolate for the ultimate indulgence. This recipe is a hit at any gathering, perfect for gifting, or just a sweet treat when you’re craving something simple but decadent. The buttery, peanut-buttery flavor of the Butterfinger candy bars paired with a rich chocolate coating is sure to satisfy every sweet tooth in your family. This delightful treat is incredibly easy to prepare and will leave everyone asking for the recipe.

Ingredients

For this easy-to-make Butterfinger Balls recipe, you’ll need the following 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

These ingredients come together to make a deliciously crunchy, creamy ball of goodness. The key ingredients—Butterfinger candy bars and chocolate chips—bring that perfect combination of peanut butter and chocolate flavors.

Instructions

Mix the Ingredients: Start by crushing the Butterfinger candy bars into small pieces. You can use a food processor or simply crush them by hand. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed Butterfingers, softened cream cheese, graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and peanut butter. Stir well until everything is thoroughly mixed together and has formed a dough-like consistency.
Form the Balls: Once the mixture is combined, use your hands or a small scoop to form the dough into 1-inch balls. Arrange the formed balls on a baking sheet or plate lined with parchment paper. Chill the balls in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow them to firm up, making them easier to dip in chocolate.
Melt the Chocolate: While the balls are chilling, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips. You can use a microwave or a double boiler. If you want a smoother coating, add the vegetable shortening to the melted chocolate and stir until it is fully incorporated.
Dip the Balls: After 30 minutes, remove the chilled balls from the refrigerator. Using a fork or dipping tool, carefully dip each ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring that it is fully coated. Gently tap the fork against the side of the bowl to remove any excess chocolate.
Set and Enjoy: Place the dipped balls back onto the parchment paper, and if desired, sprinkle them with additional crushed Butterfinger bits or chocolate sprinkles for decoration. Let them sit at room temperature or refrigerate them for a few minutes until the chocolate has fully set.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Here is an approximate breakdown of the nutrition for Butterfinger Balls:

Serving Size: 1 ball
Calories: 150 kcal
Fat: 9 g
Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 16 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 13 g
Protein: 2 g
Cholesterol: 15 mg
Sodium: 60 mg

This nutritional breakdown can vary slightly based on how large or small you make the balls, and the ingredients you use. Regardless, these treats are rich and indulgent, so they’re best enjoyed in moderation!

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes (excluding chilling time)
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

These Butterfinger Balls are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

As a Party Treat: Arrange the balls on a decorative tray for a fun and festive snack at any party or gathering.
Gift Them: Package these treats in small gift boxes or bags to create thoughtful homemade gifts for friends, family, or colleagues.
Perfect for Movie Night: Enjoy these bite-sized treats while watching your favorite movie for a little extra indulgence.
As a Post-Dinner Delight: Serve them as a sweet finish to a dinner party or holiday meal.
On-the-Go: These balls are easy to transport, so you can enjoy them as a quick snack or take them to work or school for a midday treat.

Additional Tips

Finely Crush the Butterfingers: To achieve a consistent texture, make sure the Butterfinger bars are crushed well. You can pulse them in a food processor, but if you don’t have one, put them in a plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is easier to incorporate into the mixture, so make sure it’s at room temperature to avoid lumps.
Refrigerate for Easier Dipping: Chilling the balls for 30 minutes helps them firm up, which makes them much easier to dip into the chocolate.
Customize the Chocolate: You can use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate, depending on your preference. The chocolate should complement the flavor of the Butterfinger filling.
Use Shortening for Smooth Dipping: If you want your chocolate coating to be extra smooth and glossy, add a tablespoon of vegetable shortening to the melted chocolate.

Recipe Variations

There are endless ways you can modify this Butterfinger Balls recipe to suit your taste. Here are some ideas to try:

Add Chopped Nuts: You can enhance the crunch factor by adding chopped peanuts or other nuts to the mixture.
Use Other Candies: Swap out the Butterfinger bars for other types of candy like Reese’s or Snickers for a fun twist.
Make Them Peanut Butter Free: If you prefer to avoid peanut butter, you can substitute it with almond butter or a different nut butter for a similar consistency.
Use White Chocolate: For a sweeter version of these treats, use white chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate.
Add a Pinch of Salt: If you love the sweet and salty combo, sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the chocolate-coated balls before they set.

Serving Suggestions

As a Dessert: Butterfinger Balls are perfect for serving as a dessert after a meal, alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea.
Snack on-the-Go: Pack them in a lunchbox or take them with you on trips to satisfy your sweet tooth anytime.
With Ice Cream: Top a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream with a few Butterfinger Balls for a decadent dessert.
With Fruit: Serve them alongside fresh fruit, like strawberries or apples, to balance the sweetness and add some refreshing contrast.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing: If you want to store these treats for a longer period, you can freeze them! Just place the uncoated balls on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, dip them in melted chocolate and set them as usual.
Storage: These Butterfinger Balls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer, you can store them in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to 10 days.

FAQ Section

Can I use another type of candy besides Butterfingers?
Yes! You can substitute Butterfingers with Reese’s, Snickers, or any other candy bar you enjoy.
Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate can all be used in this recipe.
How long do these Butterfinger Balls last?
They’ll last up to a week at room temperature or 10 days if refrigerated.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these can be made up to a few days ahead of time. Just store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve.
Can I make these without peanut butter?
Yes, try using almond butter or cashew butter as a substitute.
Can I freeze these?
Yes! You can freeze the uncoated balls before dipping in chocolate for long-term storage.
Can I make these with sugar-free chocolate?
Yes, you can use sugar-free chocolate to make a lower-sugar version of this treat.
What can I use instead of graham cracker crumbs?
You can use digestive biscuits or crushed shortbread cookies as a substitute.
Can I use milk instead of cream cheese?
No, cream cheese provides a specific texture. It’s important for binding and flavor.
How can I make the coating smoother?
Add a bit of vegetable shortening to the melted chocolate for a smoother finish.

Conclusion

These Butterfinger Balls are the ultimate treat for any chocolate and peanut butter lover. With a crunchy center and a rich chocolate coating, they make the perfect indulgence for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a party, looking for a gift idea, or simply craving something sweet, these easy-to-make candy balls will satisfy your sweet tooth in the best way possible. Try them today, and watch them become an instant favorite!