Butterfinger Balls

If you’re craving a sweet treat that’s both simple to make and irresistibly delicious, then look no further than Butterfinger Balls. These little bites are a perfect balance of crunchy, creamy, and chocolatey goodness. With a rich combination of Butterfingers, peanut butter, and a sweet coating, Butterfinger Balls will quickly become a favorite at any gathering.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this easy and delectable treat. From key ingredients to step-by-step instructions, expert tips, creative twists, and answers to frequently asked questions, you’ll have all the tools you need to make the perfect Butterfinger Balls every time. Let’s dive in!

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

The ingredients for Butterfinger Balls are simple yet effective. Each component plays an essential role in creating the final delicious treat. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients:

1. Butterfinger Candy Bars

The star ingredient of the Butterfinger Balls is, of course, the Butterfinger candy bars. Their crispy, peanut-buttery crunch is what gives this treat its signature flavor and texture.

Role: Provides the crunch and peanut butter flavor that forms the base of the treat.
Tip: Crush the Butterfinger bars into small, bite-sized pieces to get the perfect texture when mixed with the other ingredients.

2. Peanut Butter

Peanut butter not only enhances the peanut flavor in the Butterfinger Bars, but it also helps bind the mixture together, making the balls easier to form.

Role: Adds creaminess, moisture, and depth of flavor, while also helping hold the mixture together.
Tip: Use smooth peanut butter for the best consistency. If you like more texture, you can use crunchy peanut butter, but be sure it’s fully stirred to avoid any oil separation.

3. Powdered Sugar

Powdered sugar adds sweetness and helps to thicken the mixture so that it holds its shape when rolled into balls.

Role: Adds sweetness and helps create the ideal consistency for the ball shape.
Tip: Make sure to sift the powdered sugar before adding it to prevent any lumps in the mixture.

4. Butter

Butter is the key to adding richness and helping the other ingredients meld together. It provides a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture to the Butterfinger Balls.

Role: Adds richness, moisture, and binds the mixture together.
Tip: Use unsalted butter to better control the sweetness of your treat.

5. Milk Chocolate

The milk chocolate coating is what transforms these into decadent, irresistible treats. It envelops the peanut-buttery interior and provides that sweet, creamy contrast.

Role: Adds sweetness and smoothness to balance the crunchy and peanut-buttery center.
Tip: Use high-quality milk chocolate for the best flavor. You can also use semi-sweet chocolate if you prefer a less sweet coating.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: None (no baking required)
Total Time: 50 minutes

These Butterfinger Balls come together quickly, making them perfect for last-minute treats or a fun activity to do with friends or family. With no baking required, the preparation is quick and easy, and the chill time allows the balls to firm up before coating them in chocolate.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make the perfect Butterfinger Balls:

4 full-size Butterfinger candy bars (or 6 fun-size bars)
1 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
2 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips (or more for coating)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s get into how to make these delightful Butterfinger Balls from start to finish!

Step 1: Crush the Butterfingers

Start by unwrapping the Butterfinger candy bars and breaking them into smaller pieces. You can do this by using a rolling pin or a food processor. The goal is to get small, crunchy pieces but not powder—just small enough to give the mixture texture.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, softened butter, and powdered sugar. Mix them together until smooth and well-combined. You can use a hand mixer or do this by hand with a spatula. The consistency should be thick enough to roll into balls, but not dry.

Step 3: Add the Crushed Butterfingers

Once your peanut butter mixture is smooth, stir in the crushed Butterfingers. Mix until evenly distributed. This step will create that signature crunch in the center of the balls.

Step 4: Roll the Mixture into Balls

Take about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Repeat this process with the entire mixture, placing each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet. You should get around 20 to 24 balls, depending on how large or small you make them.

Step 5: Chill the Balls

Once all the balls are rolled, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour. This allows the balls to firm up and makes them easier to coat in chocolate.

Step 6: Melt the Chocolate

While the balls are chilling, melt the milk chocolate. You can do this in a heatproof bowl over a double boiler or in the microwave in short intervals (20-30 seconds at a time). Stir the chocolate between each interval until it’s fully melted and smooth.

Step 7: Coat the Balls in Chocolate

Once the Butterfinger Balls have firmed up, remove them from the refrigerator. Use a fork to dip each ball into the melted chocolate, coating it completely. Gently tap the fork on the edge of the bowl to remove any excess chocolate.

Step 8: Set the Chocolate

Place the coated balls back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow them to set for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate hardens completely. You can speed up this process by refrigerating them again for a few minutes.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Once the chocolate has set, your Butterfinger Balls are ready to be served! Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for up to a week.

Expert Tips

Use Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter blends more easily with the peanut butter and powdered sugar, resulting in a smoother mixture that’s easier to roll into balls.
Don’t Overheat the Chocolate: If using the microwave to melt the chocolate, be sure to melt it in short bursts and stir frequently to prevent it from seizing up or burning.
Chill Before Dipping: Make sure your Butterfinger Balls are well-chilled before dipping them in chocolate. This helps them maintain their shape and prevents them from becoming too soft and messy during the coating process.
Double Coating: For an extra indulgent treat, you can dip the balls in chocolate twice. Simply let the first layer of chocolate set, then dip them again for a thicker, more decadent coating.

Presentation Tips

Decorative Drizzle: After the chocolate has set, you can drizzle a little more melted chocolate (in a different color, like white or dark chocolate) over the top for a decorative touch.
Garnish: For extra flair, sprinkle crushed nuts, candy sprinkles, or additional crushed Butterfingers on top of the chocolate-coated balls before the chocolate hardens.
Serving Platters: Arrange the finished Butterfinger Balls on a decorative platter, or serve them in mini cupcake liners for an elegant presentation at parties or gatherings.

Creative Twists

Crunchy Peanut Butter Balls: Instead of using smooth peanut butter, try crunchy peanut butter for an extra layer of texture in each bite.
Dark Chocolate Coating: For a slightly less sweet version, use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate. The bitter notes of dark chocolate will balance the sweetness of the peanut butter and Butterfinger.
Add Some Flavor: Mix in a little vanilla extract, sea salt, or even a touch of cinnamon to enhance the flavor of the peanut butter mixture.
Mini Versions: If you want smaller bites, roll the mixture into mini bite-sized balls for a daintier treat that’s easier to pop in your mouth.

Pro Tip for Customization

Want to customize your Butterfinger Balls for different dietary needs or preferences? Here’s how:

For a Vegan Option: Use dairy-free chocolate chips and a plant-based butter substitute. Make sure to choose a peanut butter that doesn’t contain any added milk products.
For Nut-Free: If you have a nut allergy, you can replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or a soy-based spread, and use chocolate without milk products.
For a Healthier Version: Swap out the powdered sugar for a natural sweetener like stevia, erythritol, or monk fruit sweetener, and choose dark chocolate with a higher cocoa percentage.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long do Butterfinger Balls last?

Butterfinger Balls can be stored at room temperature for up to a week in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks.

2. Can I freeze Butterfinger Balls?

Yes, you can freeze them! Place the Butterfinger Balls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or

bag, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.

3. Can I use other candy bars instead of Butterfingers?

Yes! You can substitute Butterfingers with other candy bars like Snickers, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, or Milky Way for a different flavor.

4. Can I make these in advance?

Absolutely! These treats can be made a day or two in advance, and they store well in the fridge. Just be sure to let them cool completely before storing to avoid melting the chocolate.

Conclusion

Butterfinger Balls are a simple, fun, and delicious treat that everyone will love. With minimal ingredients, easy preparation, and countless customization options, these bite-sized delights are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a party, or just as a personal indulgence, these peanut-buttery, chocolate-covered treats will satisfy any sweet tooth. Happy snacking!