If you’re craving a delightful, sweet treat that’s both simple to make and irresistibly delicious, look no further than this Butterfinger Balls: Easy No-Bake Chocolate-Covered Treats Recipe. These little bites combine the crunchy, buttery essence of Butterfinger candy bars with the creamy richness of cream cheese, all wrapped up in a smooth chocolate coating. They are perfect for sharing with friends, gifting during the holidays, or simply enjoying as a quick dessert that feels truly special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is as straightforward as it gets, with just a handful of ingredients that each bring their own magic to the table. From the iconic crunch of Butterfinger bars to the silky texture of cream cheese and the luscious meltiness of chocolate, every component plays a key role in crafting these delicious Butterfinger Balls.
- Butterfinger bars: Provides the signature crispy, peanut-buttery crunch essential to the flavor and texture.
- Cream cheese: Adds a smooth, creamy base that binds everything together and balances sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, comforting note.
- Salt: A pinch helps to elevate the sweetness and deepen flavor complexity.
- Chocolate chips or melting wafers: For that irresistible, glossy chocolate coating that encases each ball.
- Shortening (optional): Keeps the chocolate smooth and easier to dip.
- Sprinkles, chopped nuts, or crushed Butterfinger pieces (optional): Perfect for adding extra visual appeal and texture when decorating.
How to Make Butterfinger Balls: Easy No-Bake Chocolate-Covered Treats Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Butterfinger Bars
Start by unwrapping your Butterfinger candy bars and chopping them into small pieces, roughly a quarter inch or smaller. For convenience, a food processor can be used, but pulse carefully to avoid turning the mixture into a paste. You want those delightful crunchy bits to shine through in every bite.
Step 2: Soften the Cream Cheese
Allow your cream cheese to come to room temperature for at least an hour, or soften it quickly by microwaving in short 15-second bursts. This step ensures it will blend smoothly with the chopped Butterfingers, creating that luscious texture we all crave.
Step 3: Combine Butterfingers and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped Butterfinger pieces along with the softened cream cheese. This combination is where the magic begins, blending crunch and creaminess in one bowl.
Step 4: Add Vanilla and Salt
Pour in a splash of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. These small additions go a long way in brightening the flavors and creating that irresistibly balanced taste we associate with Butterfinger Balls.
Step 5: Mix Until Smooth
Using an electric mixer, beat the ingredients together until the mixture is uniform and creamy. Remember to occasionally scrape down the sides of your bowl to incorporate every bit of goodness.
Step 6: Chill the Mixture
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step firms up the mixture, making it easier to shape the Butterfinger Balls in the next step.
Step 7: Form the Butterfinger Balls
Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking. Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, scoop portions of the mixture and roll them between your palms to create smooth, round balls. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 8: Freeze for Easier Dipping
Pop the baking sheet into the freezer for 15 to 20 minutes. This chilling makes the balls firm, which simplifies the dipping process and helps the chocolate coating set beautifully.
Step 9: Melt the Chocolate
Choose your favorite chocolate chips or melting wafers. If using chocolate chips, add about a tablespoon of shortening per cup to keep the chocolate silky and easier to work with. Melt the chocolate by microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or melt it over a double boiler until perfectly smooth.
Step 10: Dip the Butterfinger Balls
Using a fork or specialized dipping tool, coat each chilled Butterfinger ball completely with the melted chocolate. Gently tap off any excess coating to avoid thick layers. Place the dipped balls back on the parchment-lined tray.
Step 11: Add Final Touches
While the chocolate is still wet, get creative! Sprinkle with colorful sprinkles, chopped nuts, or even crushed Butterfinger pieces for extra crunch and flair. These garnishes add that extra wow factor that everyone loves.
Step 12: Let the Chocolate Set
Allow the chocolate to firm up fully, either at room temperature for about an hour or in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes. Once set, your Butterfinger Balls are ready to be enjoyed or stored.
How to Serve Butterfinger Balls: Easy No-Bake Chocolate-Covered Treats Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkles of crushed candy, colorful nonpareils, or a dusting of cocoa powder can elevate these treats from simple to spectacular. Don’t be shy to experiment with textures and colors that make each bite visually delightful as well as tasty.
Side Dishes
Serve these Butterfinger Balls alongside a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee for a classic pairing. They also complement vanilla ice cream and fresh fruit beautifully, adding richness without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the balls on a decorative platter lined with parchment paper, or serve them individually in mini cupcake liners for a polished, party-ready look. You might also stack them in a glass jar with layers of crumbled nuts or candy bits for an eye-catching dessert display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Butterfinger Balls fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They hold up beautifully for up to a week, making them an ideal treat to prepare ahead for any occasion.
Freezing
If you want to save them for longer, freezing works wonderfully. Arrange the balls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a sealed container or freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to three months without losing their flavor or texture.
Reheating
Since these treats are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, there’s no need to reheat. Simply thaw frozen Butterfinger Balls in the fridge or on the counter before serving for the best taste and texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of candy bar instead of Butterfinger bars?
Absolutely! While Butterfinger bars provide a unique crunchy peanut butter flavor, you can experiment with other candy bars like Heath or Skor for a similar crunch or even Snickers for a nuttier, caramel twist.
What type of chocolate works best for dipping?
Melting wafers or high-quality chocolate chips are ideal because they melt smoothly and harden nicely. If you want a glossy finish and easy dipping, adding a bit of shortening helps keep the chocolate fluid and shiny.
Is cream cheese necessary in the recipe?
Yes, cream cheese adds that creamy binding that allows the chopped candy bars to stick together perfectly. It also balances out the sweetness and gives the Butterfinger Balls a rich, smooth texture.
Can I make these Butterfinger Balls vegan or dairy-free?
With some ingredient swaps, yes! Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and choose vegan chocolate chips. Just keep in mind the texture might be slightly different, but still delicious.
How long do Butterfinger Balls last?
Stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, these treats last up to one week. For longer storage, freezing is recommended and they maintain their quality for several months.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s quick, no-fuss, and guaranteed to impress, the Butterfinger Balls: Easy No-Bake Chocolate-Covered Treats Recipe is your go-to. With its perfect balance of crunchy, creamy, and chocolatey goodness, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Try making a batch and watch how fast they disappear — I promise you’ll keep coming back for more!
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Butterfinger Balls: Easy No-Bake Chocolate-Covered Treats Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 30-40 balls
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Butterfinger Balls are a delightful no-bake treat combining the crunchy, peanut butter candy bar flavor with smooth cream cheese and a rich chocolate coating. These easy-to-make bite-sized balls are perfect for any occasion, offering a perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and crunchy textures without needing an oven.
Ingredients
Butterfinger Ball Mixture
- 6 Butterfinger candy bars (about 14.9 oz total), chopped into small pieces
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Chocolate Coating
- 2 cups melting wafers or chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons shortening (optional, for smoother chocolate)
- Sprinkles, chopped nuts, or crushed Butterfinger pieces for decoration (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Butterfinger pieces: Unwrap and chop the Butterfinger bars into small pieces roughly 1/4 inch or smaller. You can use a food processor, but pulse carefully to prevent creating a paste.
- Soften cream cheese: Leave the cream cheese at room temperature for at least an hour or microwave in 15-second bursts until soft but not melted.
- Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped Butterfinger pieces and softened cream cheese.
- Add flavorings: Stir in vanilla extract and salt to the mixture.
- Beat mixture: Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture until smooth and well combined. Scrape down the bowl sides as needed to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
- Refrigerate mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up the mixture, making it easier to roll.
- Prepare for rolling: Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper.
- Form balls: Use a small cookie scoop to portion the mixture, then roll each scoop between your palms into smooth balls.
- Place balls on sheet: Arrange the formed balls on the prepared baking sheet.
- Freeze balls: Freeze the baking sheet for 15-20 minutes to firm up the balls, making them easier to dip.
- Melt chocolate: Combine chocolate chips or melting wafers with shortening in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until melted and smooth. Alternatively, melt chocolate in a heat-safe bowl over simmering water, stirring until smooth.
- Dip balls in chocolate: Use a fork or dipping tool to dip each Butterfinger ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring full coverage.
- Remove excess chocolate: Gently tap the fork or tool against the side of the bowl to remove extra chocolate from the ball.
- Place coated balls on sheet: Set the chocolate-covered balls back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Decorate: While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle with sprinkles, chopped nuts, or crushed Butterfinger pieces as desired.
- Repeat dipping and decorating: Continue dipping and decorating the remaining balls the same way.
- Set chocolate: Let the chocolate set completely at room temperature for about an hour or chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes.
- Store: Keep the Butterfinger Balls stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is adequately softened to create a smooth mixture that’s easy to roll.
- If using a food processor to chop the Butterfingers, pulse carefully to avoid turning the candy bars into a paste.
- Adding shortening to the chocolate helps achieve a smoother, shinier coating and easier dipping.
- These balls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week but are best enjoyed within a few days for optimal freshness.
- Customize decorations to match holidays or special occasions.
