Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?

The recipe was developed using Jif creamy peanut butter, which has a consistent texture and sweetness. Natural peanut butter tends to separate and may result in a different consistency that could make the balls too oily or difficult to form. If you want to try natural peanut butter, make sure it's well-stirred and you might need to adjust the powdered sugar amount

Why did my chocolate seize or get lumpy when melting?

Chocolate is sensitive to moisture and overheating. Make sure your bowl and utensils are completely dry, and always melt chocolate slowly at low heat. If using a microwave, use 30-second intervals and stir well between each heating. Adding a bit of coconut oil can help achieve smoother melted chocolate.

Can I make these without Butterfinger bits?

Absolutely! While the Butterfinger bits give these their signature flavor, you could substitute crushed graham crackers, crispy rice cereal, or another candy bar of your choice. The texture will be different but still delicious.

My peanut butter balls are sweating when I take them out to dip. What's happening?

This occurs when cold balls meet warm room temperature, creating condensation. Work quickly and in small batches, keeping the rest chilled until ready to dip. If they start sweating, return them to the freezer for 5-10 minutes before attempting to dip them again.

Butterfinger Balls Recipe

Description

Butterfinger Balls are a delightful no-bake treat combining creamy peanut butter, sweet Butterfinger Bits, and rich melted chocolate. Perfect for festive gatherings or as a quick snack, these bite-sized delights are easy to make and full of flavor. With a smooth peanut butter filling and a satisfying chocolate coating, these treats are a surefire hit for kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Filling:

1 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup salted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups powdered sugar
1 1/2 cups Butterfinger Bits

For the Coating:

3 cups chocolate melting wafers
Additional Butterfinger Bits, for topping (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Cream together for about 30 seconds until fully combined.
Incorporate the Sugar:
Sift the powdered sugar into the bowl and beat again until smooth and the mixture is well incorporated.
Mix in the Butterfinger Bits:
Gently fold in the Butterfinger Bits until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Chill the Mixture:
Cover the mixture and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.
Form the Balls:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a medium cookie scoop or your hands, portion out the peanut butter mixture and roll into balls. Place each ball on the parchment-lined sheet. Chill in the freezer for 20 to 30 minutes to set.
Melt the Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl or glass, melt the chocolate melting wafers in 30-second intervals, stirring between each heating, until fully melted and smooth.
Dip the Balls:
Using a dipping tool or a fork, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring an even coating. Place the coated balls back onto the parchment-lined sheet.
Garnish and Set:
Sprinkle additional Butterfinger Bits on top of each ball for garnish (optional). Allow the chocolate to set and harden completely before serving or storing.

Notes

Jif creamy peanut butter was used in this recipe. Avoid using all-natural peanut butter, as it may alter the texture.
Substitute chocolate chips for the melting wafers if preferred, but add ½ teaspoon of coconut oil per cup of chips for easy dipping.
Don’t allow the balls to sit at room temperature too long before dipping, as this will make it harder for the chocolate to stick.
Avoid freezing the balls for more than 30 minutes prior to dipping. Store them in the refrigerator if you aren’t ready to dip immediately.
Excess melted chocolate is normal and necessary to ensure the balls are fully coated.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 ball
Calories: 175
Sugar: 11g
Sodium: 85mg
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 16
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 10mg