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Butterfinger Balls

BENARDI

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Everyday Culinary Delights 👩‍🍳

 

Butterfinger Balls are the ultimate no-bake treat, bringing together the creamy texture of softened cream cheese with the rich, crunchy flavor of Butterfinger candy bars. These bite-sized delights offer an irresistible blend of flavors and textures that cater to both candy lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike. They’re easy to prepare and require minimal ingredients, making them a go-to option for anyone looking to whip up a delicious treat in no time. Perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or even as a quick indulgence at home, Butterfinger Balls are versatile enough to suit any occasion. Best of all, they don’t require baking or complicated equipment, so even beginners can achieve professional-tasting results. Whether you’re craving a quick snack or want to impress guests, these Butterfinger Balls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients Overview 

To create Butterfinger Balls, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:

  • Crushed Butterfinger candy bars: For this recipe, about 16 fun-sized bars or 2 cups are crushed to add flavor and crunch.
  • Cream cheese (8 oz., softened): This provides a creamy base that pairs perfectly with the candy.
  • Semi-sweet chocolate chips (2 cups): Used for coating the balls, adding a rich chocolatey layer.
  • Vegetable shortening (optional): A tablespoon can be added to smooth the chocolate consistency.
  • Optional sprinkles or extra Butterfinger pieces: These add a finishing decorative touch.
    With these minimal ingredients, you can create a no-bake dessert that tastes delicious and is easy to make.

Step-by-Step Instructions 

  1. Mix Ingredients –  Begin by softening the cream cheese to room temperature, ensuring it’s pliable and easy to blend. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the crushed Butterfinger candy bars. Use a sturdy spoon or a spatula to mix, pressing the candy into the cream cheese until well incorporated. The goal is to achieve a smooth, creamy mixture with evenly distributed pieces of Butterfinger, giving each ball a balanced taste. If the mixture feels too thick or sticky, allow it to rest at room temperature for a few minutes to make blending easier. As you mix, ensure there are no lumps of cream cheese, as these could affect the consistency when shaping the balls later on. Taking time to blend thoroughly will create a more uniform texture and make the next steps smoother.
  2. Form the Balls – Once the mixture is well-blended, it’s time to form the Butterfinger Balls. Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls, aiming for consistent sizing. This will help them chill and set evenly. Place each ball onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. For a firmer texture that holds its shape, chill the tray of Butterfinger Balls in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step is essential for making them easier to dip in chocolate later and helps the balls maintain their structure.
  3. Melt the Chocolate –  For the chocolate coating, place the semi-sweet chocolate chips and optional vegetable shortening (if using) into a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20–30 second intervals, stirring after each to prevent overheating. The shortening helps to create a smoother, shinier chocolate, but it’s optional. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate in a double boiler if preferred. Stir until fully melted and smooth. If the chocolate thickens too much as it cools, reheat in short bursts until the ideal dipping consistency returns. Properly melted chocolate will give each Butterfinger Ball a professional, glossy finish.
  4. Dip and Coat Each Ball –  After the Butterfinger Balls have chilled, it’s time to dip them in chocolate. Using a fork or a dipping tool, lower each ball into the melted chocolate, coating it completely. Gently tap the fork against the bowl’s edge to remove any excess chocolate, creating a cleaner, more even coating. Place each dipped ball back onto the parchment-lined sheet to set. Taking time with this step will give your treats a polished look and help avoid any chocolate pooling beneath the balls, which can occur if too much excess chocolate remains.
  5. Decorate and Set –  While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle each ball with extra crushed Butterfinger pieces or decorative sprinkles for a final flourish. This step not only adds texture but enhances the visual appeal of your Butterfinger Balls. Allow them to set at room temperature or refrigerate them briefly to speed up the setting process.

Tips for Perfect Butterfinger Balls

  • Softening Cream Cheese: For smooth mixing, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this can melt it, making the mixture too soft.
  • Crushing Butterfinger Bars: To evenly crush Butterfinger bars, place them in a sealed bag and use a rolling pin to break them into small pieces. This creates a finer texture that blends well with the cream cheese.
  • Smoother Chocolate Coating: Adding a small amount of vegetable shortening or coconut oil to the chocolate can help achieve a smoother, shinier finish. Be cautious with the quantity, as too much can thin the chocolate excessively. If the chocolate thickens while dipping, briefly reheat in the microwave in short bursts.

How to Make Delicious Butterfinger Balls: A Perfect No-Bake Treat 

Flavor Variations and Customizations 

If you want to add a unique twist to your Butterfinger Balls, there are many creative variations and customizations you can try. For flavor variety, consider substituting the crushed Butterfinger candy bars with other popular candy bars, like Snickers, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, or Kit Kat bars, each adding its own unique flavor and texture to the recipe. Mixing and matching candy options can result in surprising and delightful combinations.

To add more texture, you might incorporate a dollop of peanut butter into the mixture for a richer, creamier taste that pairs well with the chocolate coating. A caramel drizzle over the finished balls or substituting semi-sweet chocolate with white or dark chocolate also creates a delicious contrast. These additions elevate the flavor and create a more complex profile for your dessert.

Seasonal decorations offer endless customization possibilities. For a festive look, sprinkle your Butterfinger Balls with colored sprinkles or edible glitter during holidays. Halloween-themed sprinkles or red and green sprinkles for Christmas add a fun, themed touch. You can even use colored chocolate melts to match the season or event. Customizing Butterfinger Balls this way makes them perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to seasonal celebrations.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips 

Butterfinger Balls are versatile and can be served in many creative ways. For a polished presentation, arrange them on a decorative platter and sprinkle a bit of extra crushed Butterfinger or drizzle melted chocolate on top for added visual appeal. Alternatively, serve them in mini cupcake liners for a clean, bite-sized presentation at parties.

To store Butterfinger Balls, place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week, maintaining their freshness and texture. If you plan to keep them longer, Butterfinger Balls can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. When freezing, layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Allow them to thaw slightly before serving for the best taste and texture. With proper storage, you can enjoy this delicious treat anytime you’re in the mood for a quick snack or dessert.

Nutritional Information and Dietary Tips 

Butterfinger Balls are a decadent treat, with each serving containing approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the ingredients and size. For a lighter option, consider using low-fat or reduced-fat cream cheese, which maintains the creamy texture while reducing calorie and fat content. Using dark chocolate in place of semi-sweet chocolate can offer a richer taste with added health benefits from antioxidants. While Butterfinger Balls are an indulgent treat, these small adjustments allow you to enjoy them in moderation while balancing your dietary preferences.

Troubleshooting Common Issues 

Here are some common challenges when making Butterfinger Balls and how to resolve them:

  • Balls too soft or sticky: If the mixture is too soft to shape, try chilling it in the refrigerator for an additional 10-15 minutes. Adding a bit more crushed Butterfinger candy can also help firm up the texture.
  • Uneven chocolate coating: Chocolate consistency is key for a smooth coating. If your chocolate thickens while dipping, reheat it in the microwave in short bursts to restore the smoothness. Using a fork or a dipping tool to lift and gently tap off excess chocolate helps prevent clumping.
  • Sprinkles or decorations not sticking: Timing is essential; apply any decorations immediately after dipping each ball in chocolate, while it’s still wet. This ensures that decorations adhere firmly before the chocolate sets.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to achieve beautiful, professional-looking Butterfinger Balls every time.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I use other types of candy?
Yes, Butterfinger Balls can be customized with various candy bars. Snickers, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, or even Twix can all make great alternatives, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and textures.

2. How long will Butterfinger Balls last?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, Butterfinger Balls stay fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to two months. Make sure they are well-sealed and use parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.

3. Do I need to use vegetable shortening in the chocolate?
No, vegetable shortening is optional. Adding it can help achieve a smoother, shinier chocolate coating, but if you prefer, you can skip it or substitute it with a small amount of coconut oil.

4. Can I freeze Butterfinger Balls for later?
Yes, Butterfinger Balls freeze very well. To store, place them in a freezer-safe container, layering them with parchment paper. Thaw them in the refrigerator for a short time before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.

5. What’s the best way to crush Butterfinger bars?
For best results, place Butterfinger bars in a sealed plastic bag and use a rolling pin to crush them into small pieces. This method keeps your hands clean and helps achieve an even texture, which is ideal for mixing into the cream cheese base.

6. Can I use flavored cream cheese in this recipe?
Yes, flavored cream cheese can add a unique twist to Butterfinger Balls. Try using vanilla or chocolate-flavored cream cheese for a different taste. Just be cautious with strongly flavored options, as they might overpower the Butterfinger flavor.

7. What’s the best type of chocolate for coating?
Semi-sweet chocolate works well for a balanced sweetness, but you can also use milk chocolate for a sweeter taste or dark chocolate for a richer flavor. Chocolate melts or candy melts are also great alternatives, especially if you want vibrant colors for special occasions.

8. Do Butterfinger Balls need to be refrigerated?
Yes, since they contain cream cheese, it’s best to keep them refrigerated to maintain freshness and safety. They can be stored at room temperature for a short period if served immediately, but for longer storage, refrigeration is recommended.

9. Can I make Butterfinger Balls in advance?
Absolutely! Butterfinger Balls are a great make-ahead treat. Prepare and refrigerate them up to three days before serving, or freeze them if you’re making them further in advance. Thaw them slightly before serving for the best flavor and texture.

10. Can I make Butterfinger Balls without chocolate coating?
Yes, you can skip the chocolate coating if you prefer a lighter version or are short on time. The balls will still hold their shape and taste delicious, though the chocolate coating does add a satisfying, crunchy texture.

11. Can I make mini or jumbo versions of Butterfinger Balls?
Yes, you can adjust the size of each Butterfinger Ball to suit your preference or the occasion. For mini versions, use a smaller scoop or roll smaller portions of the mixture, perfect for bite-sized treats. For jumbo versions, make slightly larger balls, but note that they may need additional chilling time to set properly.

12. What can I use if I don’t have a microwave to melt the chocolate?
If you don’t have a microwave, you can melt chocolate using a double boiler on the stovetop. Place a heat-safe bowl over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bowl doesn’t touch the water, and stir until the chocolate is melted and smooth.

13. Can I make Butterfinger Balls vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, you can make a vegan or dairy-free version by substituting dairy-free cream cheese and using dairy-free chocolate chips. Just be sure the candy you choose is also vegan, as traditional Butterfinger bars contain dairy.

14. Can I use a food processor to crush the Butterfinger bars?
Definitely! A food processor is a quick and efficient way to crush Butterfinger bars, especially if you’re making a larger batch. Pulse the bars a few times to achieve a crumbly texture, but be careful not to over-process, as they can become too fine.

15. How can I prevent the chocolate from cracking when it sets?
If you notice the chocolate coating cracks after setting, it may be due to temperature changes. To prevent this, ensure that the chocolate isn’t too hot when dipping, and let the coated balls set at room temperature before refrigerating. Gradual cooling helps prevent cracks.

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Butterfinger Balls


  • Author: BENARDI
  • Total Time: 50 minutes

Description

These Butterfinger Balls are a delicious, no-bake treat that combines creamy, peanut butter-filled centers with a crunchy Butterfinger coating, all covered in smooth chocolate. Perfect for parties or holiday trays, they’re easy to make and packed with flavor!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups crushed Butterfinger candy bars (about 16 fun-sized bars)
  • 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 tbsp vegetable shortening (optional, for smoother chocolate)
  • Optional: Butterfinger or chocolate sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

1️⃣ Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and crushed Butterfinger candy bars. Stir until well mixed and creamy.

2️⃣ Form Balls: Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls, placing them on a lined baking sheet. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.

3️⃣ Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips along with the vegetable shortening (if using) in 20-30 second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.

4️⃣ Dip Balls: Remove the chilled balls from the refrigerator. Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, coating evenly. Let any excess chocolate drip off, then place back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.

5️⃣ Decorate and Set: While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle the balls with extra crushed Butterfinger pieces or chocolate sprinkles, if desired. Allow them to set at room temperature or refrigerate for faster setting.

Notes

  • Crushing the Candy: For a smoother texture, crush Butterfinger bars finely.
  • Easier Dipping: Chilling the balls for at least 30 minutes before dipping helps them hold their shape.
  • Optional Decorations: Customize with sprinkles or drizzle melted white chocolate for added flair.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: About 24 Butterfinger Balls

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