No-Bake Peanut Butter Butterfinger Bites 🥜🍫
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 or satisfying a serious sweet tooth. The contrast of **velvety peanut butter center** and crisp chocolate shell is pure indulgence.
Perfect for:
- Holiday cookie trays and Christmas treats
- Last-minute gifts and party favors
- Make-ahead desserts (they freeze beautifully!)
Ingredients 🛍️
For the Peanut Butter-Candy Centers
- **4 tbsp** (½ stick / 56g) unsalted **butter**, softened
- **1 cup** (250g) **peanut butter** (shelf-stable recommended)
- **1 tsp** pure **vanilla extract**
- **1 cup** (120g) **powdered sugar**, sifted
- **¾ cup** (75g) **graham cracker crumbs**
- **½ cup** (60g) **crushed Butterfinger bars** (plus extra for garnish)
For the Chocolate Coating & Optional Garnish
- **8 oz** (225g) **semi-sweet chocolate chips** or melting wafers
- Optional: **½ tsp coconut oil** (for shine)
- Extra crushed Butterfinger bars
- Festive sprinkles
- Pinch of **flaky sea salt** per ball
Step-by-Step Instructions 📋
1. Make the Dough
- In a large bowl, beat softened **butter** and **peanut butter** until smooth and creamy.
- Mix in **vanilla extract**.
- Gradually add **powdered sugar**, mixing on low speed. Scrape down the bowl.
- Gently fold in **graham cracker crumbs** and **crushed Butterfingers** by hand until evenly distributed.
2. Shape & Chill
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop **1–1½ tbsp portions** of dough and roll into smooth balls (~1.5-inch diameter). Place on the tray.
- **Freeze balls at least 30 minutes** (up to 2 hours)—this is crucial for dipping!
3. 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).
4. Dip & Decorate
- Using a **fork or dipping tool**, dip one chilled ball into the melted chocolate, turning to coat fully. Let excess drip off.
- Return to the parchment paper.
- While chocolate is still wet, sprinkle with **extra crushed Butterfinger**, **sprinkles**, or a pinch of **sea salt**.
5. Set & Serve
- Let sit at room temperature 10–15 minutes, or refrigerate 10 minutes, until chocolate is firm.
- Store in the fridge and **serve cold** for best texture.
You Must Know 💡
- Use **regular peanut butter**—natural versions separate and make the dough oily.
- **Chill before dipping**—warm centers melt the chocolate shell.
- **Coconut oil helps**—it gives a professional snap and shine to the coating.
- **Freezer-friendly**—wrap tightly and freeze up to 3 months.
Ingredient Substitutions
- **Butterfinger bars:** Heath bars, Skor bits, or chopped Snickers (for a similar crunch).
- **Graham cracker crumbs:** Digestive biscuits or gluten-free cookies (for flavor variations).
- **Semi-sweet chocolate:** Dark, milk, or white chocolate (for different sweetness).
- **Peanut butter:** Almond butter or sunflower seed butter (for an allergy-friendly option).
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 the necessary structure.
- Q: Why did my chocolate crack?
- A: Likely due to **temperature shock**. Let the chilled balls warm up slightly on the counter for 5 minutes before dipping.
- Q: Is this gluten-free?
- A: Only if using certified **GF graham crumbs** and verifying that the Butterfinger candy and all other ingredients are GF.
Nutrition Facts (Per Ball – Approximate)
Based on 20 servings
| Calories: | 160 |
| Fat: | 11g |
| Carbohydrates: | 14g |
| 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.”