The Butterfinger Balls Recipe That Melts Hearts (and in Your Mouth)
If you’ve never tried a butterfinger balls recipe, you’re in for a dangerously delicious surprise. These bite-sized chocolate-dipped treats bring together crushed Butterfinger bars, creamy peanut butter, and powdered sugar in a no-bake format that practically screams “make me now.” Whether it’s your first attempt or your fiftieth, this butterfinger balls recipe delivers sweet nostalgia with every crunchy, melt-in-your-mouth bite.
Butterfinger Balls Recipe Overview
Imagine the rich scent of peanut butter and chocolate wafting through your kitchen, punctuated by the nutty-sweet aroma of crushed Butterfinger candy bars. That’s what this butterfinger balls recipe is all about — fast prep, big flavor, and zero oven time. It’s the kind of dessert that disappears minutes after it hits the table.
The best part? This butterfinger balls recipe uses just a handful of pantry staples and requires no special skills. Kids can help roll the balls. Grown-ups can sneak bites between fridge checks. It’s endlessly adaptable, crowd-pleasing, and freezer-friendly — a winning trifecta for any modern home cook.
Make it for the holidays. Whip it up after Halloween. Add it to your Valentine’s Day dessert board. This butterfinger balls recipe is the kind of thing you’ll reach for every season, any excuse.
Butterfinger Balls Recipe Ingredients List
To make the perfect butterfinger balls recipe, you’ll need:
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter – smooth is best for easy mixing
- 1½ cups powdered sugar – sweetens and binds the filling
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – optional, but adds depth
- 2 cups crushed Butterfinger candy bars – the star of the show
- 2½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips – for that luscious chocolate shell
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening – helps smooth the chocolate coating
Optional Add-Ins:
- Pinch of salt – balances the sweetness
- Crushed pretzels – for extra crunch
- Mini marshmallows – for a fluffier texture
Every ingredient in this butterfinger balls recipe plays its role, but feel free to get creative once you’ve mastered the base version.
Tools You’ll Need for This Butterfinger Balls Recipe
Before diving into the mixing and rolling, make sure you’ve got the right tools ready. This butterfinger balls recipe is simple, but a few kitchen basics will help things go smoothly:
- Mixing bowls – one large, one medium
- Hand mixer or wooden spoon – to blend peanut butter, sugar, and candy
- Rubber spatula – for scraping the bowl clean
- Baking sheet – to chill the rolled balls
- Parchment paper – prevents sticking
- Microwave-safe bowl – for melting chocolate
- Fork or dipping tool – for chocolate-coating each ball
- Refrigerator or freezer – to set the balls properly
Optional but helpful:
- Small cookie scoop – for even portions
- Cooling rack – lets excess chocolate drip off easily
This butterfinger balls recipe doesn’t require fancy equipment, but a few thoughtful tools can turn a quick treat into an impressive, professional-looking dessert.
Substitutes for Your Butterfinger Balls Recipe
One reason this butterfinger balls recipe is such a favorite? It’s incredibly flexible. Whether you’re accommodating allergies, pantry limitations, or just craving a twist, there are smart substitutions that keep the flavor going strong.
Peanut Butter Substitutes:
If peanut butter is off the table, try:
- Almond butter – a slightly nuttier, more delicate taste
- Sunflower seed butter – nut-free and school-safe
- Cashew butter – sweet, creamy, and decadent
Candy Swaps:
No Butterfingers? No problem. This butterfinger balls recipe works beautifully with other crunchy candies:
- Heath Bars – for a toffee-rich alternative
- Crunch Bars – for light chocolate crisp
- Snickers (chopped finely) – adds a caramel-chewy dimension
- Homemade Butterfinger bits – yes, DIY candy is a thing!
Chocolate Options:
Don’t love semi-sweet? Switch it up:
- Dark chocolate chips – for a richer shell
- Milk chocolate – classic and sweet
- White chocolate – for a holiday snowball twist
- Vegan chocolate – for dairy-free diets
This butterfinger balls recipe isn’t just a dessert — it’s a customizable candy canvas. Mix, match, and make it your own.
Step-by-Step Butterfinger Balls Recipe Instructions
Here’s where the magic happens. Follow these steps closely, and your butterfinger balls recipe will yield creamy-crunchy perfection every time.
❶ Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine:
- 2 cups peanut butter
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Use a hand mixer or a wooden spoon to blend until smooth and thick. Then stir in:
- 2 cups of crushed Butterfinger candy bars
Mix until fully combined. The mixture will be stiff but cohesive. This forms the delicious core of your butterfinger balls recipe.
Pro Tip: Crush Butterfingers in a sealed plastic bag with a rolling pin for perfect bits — not dust, not chunks.
❷ Roll Into Balls
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the filling and roll between your palms to form balls. Place each on the parchment-lined tray.
This butterfinger balls recipe typically yields 30–36 balls depending on size.
Once shaped, refrigerate or freeze for 15–30 minutes to firm up before dipping.
❸ Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine:
- 2½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening
Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring after each, until fully melted and silky. Let it cool for 2–3 minutes — it should still be warm but not scorching.
This smooth, glossy chocolate shell is what elevates your butterfinger balls recipe into candy shop territory.
❹ Dip and Set
Using a fork or candy-dipping tool, lower each chilled ball into the chocolate. Coat completely, then lift and let the excess drip off.
Place back on the parchment. If desired, sprinkle the tops with a pinch of crushed Butterfinger bits for extra flair.
Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or until chocolate is fully set.
Your butterfinger balls recipe is now complete — and totally irresistible.
Bonus: Freeze for Later
If you’re prepping ahead, place finished balls in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze for 1 hour. Then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
The butterfinger balls recipe holds up in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw for 15 minutes before serving.
Serving the Butterfinger Balls Recipe Right
When it comes to sharing your butterfinger balls recipe, a little presentation goes a long way. These bite-sized wonders are not just candy — they’re a conversation starter.
Serving Ideas:
- Dessert Platters: Arrange your butterfinger balls recipe on a tray with assorted truffles, peanut butter balls, and chocolate-dipped pretzels for a festive spread.
- Holiday Tins: Nestle the balls in colorful paper liners inside a holiday cookie tin. This butterfinger balls recipe makes a perfect edible gift!
- Buffet-Style Parties: Serve alongside other no-bake favorites like Oreo balls or Rice Krispie treats.
- DIY Sundae Bar: Crumble a few balls over vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable topping.
Because they’re small, rich, and deeply satisfying, one or two pieces of your butterfinger balls recipe will delight guests without overwhelming.
Expert Tips for Success
Want your butterfinger balls recipe to turn out flawless every single time? Follow these pro tips.
Temperature Matters
- Chill thoroughly before dipping to avoid the balls falling apart.
- Let chocolate cool slightly before dipping. Overheated chocolate can melt the centers.
Consistent Sizing
- Use a cookie scoop for even balls. Uniformity means more even chilling and prettier finished candies.
No Overmixing
- When folding in crushed Butterfinger bits, mix gently to keep some crunchy pieces intact. Overmixing leads to a mushy center and compromises the texture of your butterfinger balls recipe.
Dipping Techniques
- Use two forks to roll balls in melted chocolate, letting excess drip through the tines.
- For extra neatness, set dipped balls on a wire rack with parchment underneath to catch drips.
Clean As You Go
- Chocolate dipping can get messy fast. Keep a damp cloth nearby and wipe down between batches to keep your workspace smooth and stress-free.
The difference between good and great results with your butterfinger balls recipe comes down to little details — and now you know all of them!
Storing and Freezing
Done making your gorgeous treats? Here’s how to keep your butterfinger balls recipe tasting freshly made, days (or weeks!) later.
Storage at Room Temperature
- Keep your butterfinger balls recipe in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
- They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days.
- Perfect for casual snacking or party prepping.
Refrigerator Storage
- If your kitchen runs warm, store the butterfinger balls recipe in the fridge.
- Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- They’ll hold beautifully for up to 2 weeks.
Freezer Storage
- To freeze, lay the balls on a baking sheet in a single layer. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with the date.
- The butterfinger balls recipe freezes well for up to 3 months.
- To enjoy, thaw at room temperature for 10–15 minutes.
Storage Mistakes to Avoid:
- Don’t store uncovered — the chocolate coating can absorb fridge odors.
- Don’t stack warm balls — wait until chocolate is fully set to prevent smudging or flattening.
Whether you’re saving leftovers or making a big batch in advance, this butterfinger balls recipe is as freezer-friendly as it is fantastic.
FAQ
Can I make them ahead of time?
Absolutely! These candy balls are perfect for making ahead. After dipping them in chocolate, simply refrigerate or freeze. They’ll stay fresh for weeks, making them ideal for busy holiday seasons or last-minute dessert needs.
What’s the best way to crush the candy?
Place the Butterfinger bars inside a sealed plastic bag and gently smash them with a rolling pin. This technique ensures you have small, crunchy pieces without turning everything into dust. The satisfying texture of these treats depends on that perfect crush!
Can I coat them with different types of chocolate?
Definitely. Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate all work beautifully. Choose your favorite to personalize each batch to your taste or the occasion.
How can I make these candy balls vegan?
Swap the Butterfinger candy for a dairy-free alternative, use vegan chocolate, and ensure your peanut butter contains no animal products. With a few easy tweaks, these sweets can fit a plant-based lifestyle while remaining totally irresistible.
Wrapping Up
Few desserts are as easy and memorable as these chocolate-covered candy bites. A crispy, peanut-buttery center wrapped in silky chocolate makes them impossible to resist. Whether you’re making them for a birthday, packing them into lunchboxes, or gifting during the holidays, these little sweets always bring big smiles.
From the first crunchy bite to the last finger-lick of chocolate, these treats capture pure joy.
So grab your favorite candies, stir up some peanut butter magic, and enjoy making—and eating—every last one.
Butterfinger Balls Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 30–36 balls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Irresistible no-bake Butterfinger balls with peanut butter, crushed candy, and rich chocolate coating – perfect for holidays or anytime!
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 2 cups crushed Butterfinger candy bars
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 2½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening
Optional Add-Ins:
- Pinch of salt
- Crushed pretzels
- Mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Mix until smooth and thick. Stir in crushed Butterfingers until fully combined.
- Roll into Balls: Line a baking sheet with parchment. Scoop and roll mixture into 1-inch balls. Place on tray. Chill in fridge or freezer for 15–30 minutes.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and coconut oil in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- Dip and Set: Dip each chilled ball in chocolate, allow excess to drip off, and place back on parchment. Optional: top with crushed Butterfinger bits. Chill until set.
Notes
- Use a cookie scoop for even-sized balls.
- Substitute peanut butter with almond, cashew, or sunflower butter if needed.
- Store in an airtight container at room temp (5 days), fridge (2 weeks), or freezer (3 months).
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 185 kcal
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 62mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 2mg
More Recipes
If you loved this butterfinger balls recipe, here are more sweets you’ll adore:
- Cheesecake Ball Recipe – Creamy, tangy, and perfect for dipping with graham crackers or fruit.
- White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Balls – A decadent bite-sized dessert bursting with fruity sweetness and silky white chocolate.
- Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters – Rich, gooey, and nutty—these candy shop favorites are irresistible.
- Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe – Effortless and indulgent, this layered treat bakes up bubbly and golden.
These treats are fun to make and even more fun to share—perfect for parties, holidays, or just a sweet craving!
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