Irresistible Butterfinger Balls: A Sweet and Crunchy Treat
Indulge in the ultimate combination of creamy peanut butter, crispy Butterfinger pieces, and rich chocolate with these delectable Butterfinger Balls. Whether you’re craving a sweet snack or need a crowd-pleasing dessert for your next gathering, these bite-sized treats are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Join us as we delve into the world of homemade candies and discover the joy of making these irresistible Butterfinger Balls from scratch.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups crushed Butterfinger bars (about 3-4 large bars)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups crisped rice cereal
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 bag (12 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Butterfinger Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed Butterfinger bars, creamy peanut butter, crisped rice cereal, powdered sugar, and pure vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and the mixture holds together.
2. Shape into Balls:
- Using your hands, roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
3. Melt the Chocolate:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips and coconut oil together in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate in a double boiler on the stove.
4. Coat the Balls:
- Using a fork or candy dipping tool, dip each chilled Butterfinger ball into the melted chocolate, making sure to coat it evenly. Tap off any excess chocolate and place the coated ball back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Chill and Serve:
- Once all the balls are coated in chocolate, return the baking sheet to the refrigerator and chill for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate has set. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Alternative Coatings: Instead of dipping the Butterfinger balls in chocolate, you can roll them in crushed nuts (such as peanuts or almonds), shredded coconut, or cocoa powder for a different flavor and texture.
- Additions: Get creative with your Butterfinger Balls by adding additional mix-ins such as mini marshmallows, chopped nuts, or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crispy rice cereal and check the labels on the Butterfinger bars and chocolate chips to ensure they are gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly Option: Substitute the crisped rice cereal with crushed sugar-free cereal or almond flour for a low-carb alternative. Use sugar-free chocolate chips sweetened with stevia or erythritol to coat the balls.
- Low-Carb Variation: Reduce the amount of powdered sugar or omit it altogether to lower the carb content of the Butterfinger Balls. You can also use unsweetened natural peanut butter to further reduce the sugar content.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy? A: Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a bit of texture in your Butterfinger Balls. Just keep in mind that the consistency of the mixture may be slightly different.
Q: How should I store the Butterfinger Balls? A: Store the Butterfinger Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for longer storage. Simply place the chilled balls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Q: Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of chocolate for coating the Butterfinger Balls, whether it’s dark, milk, or white chocolate. Customize the flavor to suit your taste preferences.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time for a party? A: Yes, these Butterfinger Balls are perfect for making ahead of time. Simply prepare and coat the balls as directed, then store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve. They make a convenient and delicious party treat!
In conclusion, Butterfinger Balls are a delightful combination of creamy, crunchy, and chocolaty flavors that are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. Whether you’re enjoying them as a midday snack, packing them in lunchboxes, or serving them at parties, these homemade treats are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone. With their simple ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll find yourself making these Butterfinger Balls again and again. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to the irresistible goodness of Butterfinger Balls today