Butterfinger Balls

Rich, no-bake treats that taste like a peanut butter cup met a Butterfinger bar and became best friends. These decadent little bites combine creamy peanut butter, crunchy graham crumbs, and crushed Butterfinger candy, then roll them in smooth chocolate for a sweet-salty crunch in every bite. Easy to make, freezer-friendly, and impossible to eat just one.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another dessert ball—it’s candy store magic at home. With zero baking required and only 10 minutes of hands-on time, these no-bake wonders are perfect for holidays, gift-giving, or satisfying a serious sweet tooth. The contrast of velvety peanut butter center and crisp chocolate shell is pure indulgence—plus, they’re great for kids (and adults) who love that iconic Butterfinger crunch.

Perfect for:

• Holiday cookie trays and Christmas treats
• Last-minute gifts and party favors
• Make-ahead desserts (they freeze beautifully!)
• Fans of Reese’s, Snickers, or candy bark

Ingredients

For the Peanut Butter-Candy Centers

• 4 tbsp (½ stick / 56g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup (250g) peanut butter (use shelf-stable brands like Jif or Skippy—avoid natural/oily types)
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
• ¾ cup (75g) graham cracker crumbs (about 8 full crackers)
• ½ cup (60g) crushed Butterfinger bars (plus extra for garnish)

For the Chocolate Coating

• 8 oz (225g) semi-sweet chocolate chips or chocolate bark (melting wafers work too)
• Optional: ½ tsp coconut oil (helps chocolate set smoothly and shine)

Optional Garnishes

• Extra crushed Butterfinger bars
• Festive sprinkles
• Pinch of flaky sea salt per ball (elevates flavor!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Dough

In a large bowl using a hand mixer or stand mixer:

• Beat softened butter and peanut butter on medium speed 1–2 minutes until smooth and creamy.
• Mix in vanilla extract.
• Gradually add powdered sugar, ¼ cup at a time, blending on low to avoid clouds of sugar. Scrape down sides as needed.
• Gently fold in graham cracker crumbs and ½ cup crushed Butterfingers by hand until evenly distributed.

2. Shape the Balls

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Scoop 1–1½ tbsp portions of dough and roll into smooth, compact balls (~1.5-inch diameter).
• Place on tray and flatten slightly if desired.

Yields 18–20 balls, depending on size.

3. Chill to Firm Up

• Freeze balls at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours)—this prevents melting during dipping.

4. Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl:

• Combine chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using).
• Microwave in 30-second bursts at 50% power, stirring between each, until completely melted and glossy (~1.5–2 mins total).

5. Dip & Decorate

Using a fork or dipping tool:

• Pick up one chilled ball and dip into melted chocolate, turning to coat fully.
• Let excess drip off back into the bowl.
• Return to parchment paper.

While chocolate is still wet:

• Sprinkle with extra crushed Butterfinger, sprinkles, or a pinch of sea salt.

6. Set the Chocolate

• Let sit at room temperature 10–15 minutes, or refrigerate 10 minutes until chocolate is firm.

7. Serve & Share

• Transfer to an airtight container and store in the fridge.
• Serve cold straight from the fridge for best texture.

Enjoy as:

• A holiday treat with coffee or milk
• A festive gift in mini boxes or cellophane bags
• A sweet surprise in lunchboxes (add ice pack if needed)

You Must Know

• Use regular peanut butter —natural versions separate and make dough oily.
• Chill before dipping —warm centers melt the chocolate.
• Coconut oil helps —it gives a professional snap and shine.
• Tastes better the next day! Flavors deepen overnight.
• Freezer-friendly —wrap tightly and freeze up to 3 months.

Storage Tips

• Store in the fridge for up to 1 week in an airtight container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months —thaw in fridge before serving.
• Layer with parchment to prevent sticking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Serving Suggestions

• Arrange on a tiered tray with other holiday treats.
• Great for cookie swaps—label with “No-Bake Magic!”
• Double the batch and freeze half for future joy.
• Pair with hot cocoa or eggnog.

Cultural Context

Inspired by American candy traditions and vintage no-bake confections, this recipe celebrates how two simple ingredients—peanut butter and chocolate—can become something deeply satisfying. Found at Christmas tables, school fundraisers, and creative kitchens alike, it honors the joy of sharing handmade sweetness.

Pro Tips

• Double the recipe? Yes—perfect for gifting.
• Want more crunch? Add chopped nuts or pretzel pieces to the filling.
• Make ahead: Assemble balls 1–2 days ahead. Dip day-of for best shine.
• Label your dish: People will ask for the recipe.
• Say “ready?” before serving —it’s part of the ritual.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use Nutella instead of peanut butter?
A: Not recommended—it’s too thin and sweet. Stick to PB for structure.

Q: Why did my chocolate crack?
A: Likely due to temperature shock. Let balls warm slightly before dipping.

Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Only if using GF graham crumbs and verifying all ingredients.

Q: Can I make them vegan?
A: Absolutely! Use dairy-free chocolate, plant-based butter, and egg-free marshmallow fluff (if swapping PB).

Q: Can I air fry them?
A: No—but reheat briefly in microwave (5 secs) to soften center.

Allergy Information

Contains: dairy (butter, chocolate), eggs (in some processed candies), wheat (in graham crackers), peanuts.
Gluten-free option: Use certified GF cookies and verify labels.
Nut-free: Omit peanut butter; use sunflower seed butter and nut-free candy.
Always check labels—especially on processed chocolates and candy bars.

Nutrition Facts (Per Ball – Approximate)

Based on 20 servings

• Calories: 160
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 10g
• Protein: 3g
• Sodium: 90mg

These balls don’t whisper. They sit quietly in the fridge, cool and inviting, saying everything a great treat should: “Unwrap me. Eat me. This is good.” That’s how the best ones begin—not with silence, but with peanut butter, playfulness, and someone who says, “Let’s make it together.”