Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and softened butter. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat them together until smooth and creamy.
Add the powdered sugar in small increments, mixing well after each addition. Continue to mix until the mixture is smooth and dough-like.
Next, fold in the crushed Butterfinger bars and vanilla extract. The mixture should now have a delicious combination of peanut butter and crunchy bits of Butterfinger candy.
Step 2: Shape the Balls
Use your hands or a small cookie scoop to form the peanut butter mixture into 1-inch balls. Place each ball onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once all the balls are shaped, refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes, or until firm.
Step 3: Coat the Balls in Chocolate
While the peanut butter balls are chilling, melt the milk chocolate chips. You can do this by placing them in a microwave-safe bowl and heating them in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate using a double boiler over low heat.
Once the peanut butter balls have firmed up, dip each one into the melted chocolate, making sure to coat it evenly. You can use a fork or toothpicks to dip and lift the balls. Place the coated balls back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Chill and Set
Once all the balls are coated in chocolate, refrigerate them again for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate has set and hardened.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the chocolate has hardened, your Butterfinger Balls are ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 weeks. Serve them chilled or at room temperature—either way, they’re bound to disappear quickly!
Serving and Storage
Butterfinger Balls make an excellent treat for any occasion. Serve them at parties, during the holidays, or simply as a fun dessert for the family. They’re also perfect for gift-giving when wrapped in cute packaging!
To store, place the balls in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for about 1-2 weeks, though they are so delicious, they’re likely to be gone long before then! If you want to keep them for a longer period, you can freeze the balls for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store them in a single layer to prevent them from sticking together.
Tips
- Use High-Quality Chocolate: For the best coating, use good-quality milk chocolate chips or even chopped chocolate bars. The chocolate shell is one of the best parts of these treats, so it’s worth using the best you can find!
- Customize the Coating: If you’re a fan of white chocolate or dark chocolate, feel free to use those instead of milk chocolate for a different flavor profile.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet filling, reduce the powdered sugar by a little. You can always taste the mixture before forming the balls to make sure it’s to your liking.
- Make Them Extra Crunchy: If you want an even crunchier texture, you can mix in some additional crushed Butterfinger pieces into the chocolate coating before dipping the balls.
- Give Them as Gifts: These make a wonderful homemade gift. Just place them in a decorative box or a clear bag and tie with a ribbon for a personal touch!
Conclusion
Butterfinger Balls are a simple yet indulgent treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Combining creamy peanut butter, crunchy Butterfinger candy, and rich chocolate, these bite-sized morsels are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a special event, to share with friends and family, or just for a little snack, they are sure to be a crowd favorite. Easy to make and even easier to eat, these delicious balls are the perfect way to bring a little joy to your day!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use crunchy peanut butter for this recipe?
Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter for an extra bit of texture. However, make sure to adjust the consistency of the mixture if needed by adding a little more powdered sugar to keep it firm enough to shape into balls.
Can I use other candy bars instead of Butterfinger?
Absolutely! You can substitute Butterfinger with other crunchy candy bars like Snickers, Twix, or Reese’s, depending on your preference. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces for easy mixing.
Can I make Butterfinger Balls ahead of time?
Yes! Butterfinger Balls can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 weeks. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just make sure they’re well-wrapped and sealed.
Do I have to refrigerate the Butterfinger Balls?
Yes, it’s best to refrigerate the Butterfinger Balls to keep the chocolate coating firm and to maintain their freshness. They can also be frozen for longer-term storage.
Can I make these without chocolate coating?
While the chocolate coating adds a delicious touch, you could technically make Butterfinger Balls without it. However, the chocolate shell is what gives them that signature texture and taste, so we recommend keeping it!