Butterfinger Balls are a luscious blend of creamy cream cheese and crunchy Butterfinger candy, all enveloped in a smooth chocolate coating that melts delightfully in your mouth. The contrast of textures creates a treat that’s both satisfying and indulgent, perfect for candy lovers and dessert fans alike.
This no-bake delight is ideal for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a holiday party, gifting sweet treats, or just craving an easy homemade dessert. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for sharing, and the buttery crunch inside ensures everyone will be asking for seconds. Customize the coating to chocolate or vanilla chips for a personal twist!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
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2 cups powdered sugar
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2 cups crushed Butterfinger candy bars (about 4-5 bars)
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3 cups vanilla or chocolate baking chips
Directions:
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In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
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Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until fully combined.
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Fold in the crushed Butterfinger candy pieces evenly throughout the mixture.
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Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Freeze the balls for about 30 minutes to firm up.
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While the balls are chilling, melt the baking chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring after each, until smooth.
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Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each chilled Butterfinger ball into the melted baking chips, coating completely.
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Place the coated balls back on parchment paper and allow the chocolate to set at room temperature or refrigerate until firm.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling)
Kcal: Approximately 180 kcal per ball | Servings: About 24 balls
The Origin of Butterfinger Candy and Its Role in the Recipe
Butterfinger candy bars have been a beloved treat since their creation in the 1920s. Known for their crispy, flaky peanut butter core and chocolate coating, Butterfingers offer a unique texture and flavor that sets them apart from many other candy bars. The idea behind Butterfinger Balls is to take that iconic candy bar and transform it into an easy-to-make, shareable dessert. Crushing the Butterfinger bars adds that unmistakable crunch and nutty peanut butter flavor, which contrasts beautifully with the soft and creamy base created by the cream cheese.
Why Butterfinger Balls Are So Popular
One of the key reasons Butterfinger Balls are so popular is their simplicity combined with impressive taste. Unlike many desserts that require baking and complex preparation, Butterfinger Balls require no oven time and can be prepared in under an hour, making them accessible to almost anyone. The recipe involves basic ingredients and straightforward techniques, making it ideal for beginner bakers or anyone pressed for time. Additionally, they make a visually appealing treat—perfect for gifting or for serving at festive occasions.
Texture and Flavor Profile
The magic of Butterfinger Balls lies in their texture contrast. The creamy, slightly tangy cream cheese base melts in your mouth, while the crushed Butterfinger pieces provide a satisfying crunch and a distinct peanut butter flavor. The chocolate coating ties everything together, adding a smooth, rich outer layer that balances sweetness and offers a glossy, professional finish. This contrast of smooth, crunchy, and chocolatey layers creates a well-rounded flavor and mouthfeel that keeps you coming back for more.
How to Customize Butterfinger Balls
Though the classic Butterfinger Balls recipe is incredible on its own, it also serves as a fantastic base for customization. For example, you can switch up the coating by using dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or white chocolate to cater to different preferences. You could also add a sprinkle of sea salt on top after dipping for an added salty-sweet dimension. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder in the cream cheese mixture can give an unexpected kick. Another variation includes rolling the balls in crushed nuts, sprinkles, or cocoa powder for different textures and visual appeal.
Occasions Perfect for Butterfinger Balls
These treats shine brightest during the holiday season but are truly suitable for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday party, a family reunion, a potluck event, or even a casual weekend snack, Butterfinger Balls deliver. Their bite-sized form makes them ideal for sharing and serving at social gatherings. They also make wonderful homemade gifts, especially when wrapped in decorative boxes or jars tied with ribbons. Because they’re easy to transport and don’t require refrigeration for short periods, they’re convenient to take along to picnics or office parties.
Storing and Serving Tips
Butterfinger Balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, which makes them great for preparing ahead of time. If you want to enjoy them at room temperature, simply take them out of the fridge about 15 minutes before serving so they soften slightly. For longer storage, they freeze well; just thaw them in the refrigerator before serving to maintain their texture and flavor. When serving, arranging them on a pretty platter or using cupcake liners can enhance their presentation and make them easier to pick up.
Nutritional Considerations
While Butterfinger Balls are undeniably a treat, it’s worth noting they contain cream cheese, powdered sugar, candy bars, and chocolate, which means they are calorie-dense and rich in sugars and fats. They are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. For those with dietary restrictions, there are potential modifications such as using sugar substitutes, dairy-free cream cheese alternatives, or vegan chocolate chips to make the recipe more inclusive.
The Allure of No-Bake Desserts
No-bake desserts like Butterfinger Balls have a special place in many kitchens because they combine ease and indulgence. With no need for an oven, they require minimal time and effort yet produce results that taste like they came from a gourmet bakery. This makes them perfect for busy home cooks, those new to dessert-making, or anyone who prefers quick and fuss-free recipes. Butterfinger Balls also fit the trend of finger foods that are easy to eat, share, and enjoy without utensils.
Why Butterfinger Balls Make a Great Gift
Gifting homemade treats is a wonderful way to show care, and Butterfinger Balls make an excellent gift because they look festive and taste luxurious without being complicated. They can be packaged beautifully in small boxes, jars, or tins, making them suitable for occasions such as Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or thank-you gifts. Since they don’t require refrigeration immediately, they’re practical for sending through the mail or giving to friends and neighbors.
Conclusion
Butterfinger Balls are a perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey goodness that makes them an irresistible treat for candy lovers everywhere. Their easy preparation, customizable nature, and delightful flavor profile have cemented their place as a beloved no-bake dessert. Whether you’re making them for yourself, your family, or as gifts, these balls offer a luxurious candy experience in a bite-sized form. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a crowd-pleasing dessert that fits any occasion—from holidays to casual hangouts.
If you’ve never tried Butterfinger Balls before, this recipe invites you to dive into a sweet, crunchy, and creamy sensation that’s both nostalgic and new. Once you make them, you’ll likely find yourself coming back to this recipe season after season, sharing them with loved ones, and customizing them to your taste. Enjoy the ease and indulgence that Butterfinger Balls bring to your dessert table!