Butterfinger Balls – A Timeless No-Bake Treat

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Sure! Here’s a full, rich, and indulgent long-form recipe for Butterfinger Balls—a treat that combines peanut buttery goodness, a touch of nostalgia, and a whole lot of love. I’ve included the history, formation, methods, instructions, conclusion, and even a nod to all the Butterfinger lovers out there.

Butterfinger Balls – A Timeless No-Bake Treat

Introduction

In the realm of sweet, no-bake desserts, Butterfinger Balls have earned their place in the hearts of snack lovers across generations. Born from a fusion of childhood nostalgia and the joy of homemade candy, these bite-sized treats deliver a crunchy, creamy, chocolatey experience that you simply can’t resist. Whether you’re making them for the holidays, a potluck, or a secret late-night snack, Butterfinger Balls hit all the right notes.

A Brief History & Formation

Though not an ancient recipe, Butterfinger Balls are a modern twist on traditional peanut butter balls and truffles. Inspired by the iconic Butterfinger candy bar (first introduced in 1923 by the Curtiss Candy Company), these homemade goodies emulate the flaky, crispy peanut butter center and coat it in rich chocolate.

Home cooks started experimenting with crushed candy bars, peanut butter, and chocolate in the 80s and 90s, especially during holidays. Butterfinger Balls quickly became a staple in Southern kitchens and church potlucks.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make approximately 24–30 Butterfinger Balls:

For the Filling:

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter (smooth is best)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 ½ cups crushed Butterfinger candy bars (about 5 regular-size bars or 10 fun-size bars)

For the Coating:

  • 12 oz semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips (or chocolate melts)
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening (optional, for smoother melting)

Instructions & Method

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine peanut butter and softened butter. Beat with an electric mixer until creamy and well blended.
  2. Add vanilla extract and gradually mix in the powdered sugar. Stir until fully combined and smooth.
  3. Fold in the crushed Butterfinger pieces using a spatula. The mixture will be slightly thick and textured.

Step 2: Shape the Balls

  1. Using a small cookie scoop or a spoon, scoop out portions and roll them into balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
  2. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Chill in the refrigerator or freezer for at least 30 minutes, until firm.

Step 3: Dip in Chocolate

  1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
  2. Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate. Allow excess chocolate to drip off.
  3. Place back on the parchment-lined tray. Optionally, drizzle with extra chocolate or sprinkle with more crushed Butterfinger for texture.

Step 4: Set and Store

  1. Let the chocolate coating set by refrigerating the dipped balls for another 30 minutes.
  2. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for longer storage.

Butterfinger Lovers Unite

This recipe is a celebration of all Butterfinger lovers—those who crave the crispy, crunchy, peanut-buttery layers and can’t resist the lure of rich chocolate. It’s a fan-favorite treat for Halloween, Christmas trays, birthday parties, or “just because.”

Butterfinger Balls are perfect for gifting or sharing… but don’t be surprised if they disappear fast!

Tips & Variations

  • Nut-Free? Try sunflower seed butter and toffee bits instead of Butterfinger bars.
  • Want it crunchier? Mix in crushed cornflakes or graham cracker crumbs.
  • Going fancy? Add a drizzle of white chocolate or sprinkle sea salt on top.

Conclusion

Butterfinger Balls are more than just a recipe—they’re a bite-sized memory. A throwback to simpler times and full-bellied laughs, made to be shared and savored. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Butterfinger or discovering this treat for the first time, one thing’s for sure: you won’t want to lose this recipe.

Save it, share it, make it again and again.

Because when it comes to Butterfinger Balls—one is never enough.

If you’d like, I can turn this into a printable PDF or a recipe card for social media—just say the word!

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