### Butterfinger Balls Recipe
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#### **Introduction**
Butterfinger Balls are a no-bake, easy-to-make treat that combines the irresistible crunch of Butterfinger candy bars with creamy peanut butter and chocolate coating. These little bite-sized delights are perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth or for sharing at parties, holiday gatherings, or as a simple dessert. Their rich, nutty flavor and crunchy texture, paired with the smooth chocolate coating, make them a favorite among those who love peanut butter and chocolate combinations.
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#### **Origin and Cultural Significance**
The Butterfinger Ball is a modern American treat inspired by the famous Butterfinger candy bar, which was first introduced in 1923 by the Curtiss Candy Company. The candy bar is known for its crispy, peanut butter-flavored core covered in milk chocolate. Over the years, people began experimenting with the candy’s flavor and texture, leading to the creation of no-bake treats like Butterfinger Balls. These little treats are now a popular item for potlucks, holiday cookie trays, and informal gatherings. They have become a symbol of convenience and indulgence, often representing the classic peanut butter and chocolate pairing that many American sweet tooths love.
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#### **Ingredients and Quantity**
– **For the Balls:**
– 1 ½ cups crushed Butterfinger candy bars (about 4 regular-sized bars)
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– ½ cup graham cracker crumbs (or crushed digestive biscuits)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– **For the Coating:**
– 1 ½ cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or vegetable shortening (for smooth melting)
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#### **Optional Additions**
– **Crushed nuts**: Add chopped peanuts or almonds to the mixture for extra crunch and a nutty flavor.
– **Coconut flakes**: Roll the balls in shredded coconut after dipping them in chocolate for a tropical twist.
– **Sea salt**: A light sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate coating can enhance the sweetness and add a savory touch.
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#### **Tips for Success**
1. **Chill the mixture**: To make rolling the Butterfinger Balls easier, refrigerate the peanut butter and candy mixture for 15-20 minutes before forming them into balls.
2. **Use smooth peanut butter**: While chunky peanut butter can add extra texture, smooth peanut butter works best for binding the ingredients together and ensuring a uniform texture.
3. **Melting chocolate**: When melting the chocolate for the coating, do it slowly over low heat or use the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. Adding a small amount of butter or shortening ensures a smooth, glossy coating.
4. **Shape uniformly**: To ensure that the Butterfinger Balls are consistent in size, use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the mixture before rolling them into balls.
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#### **Instructions**
1. **Prepare the Mixture:**
– In a large bowl, mix together the crushed Butterfinger bars, peanut butter, powdered sugar, graham cracker crumbs, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is well combined and holds together.
– Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to make it firmer and easier to handle.
2. **Form the Balls:**
– Once chilled, use your hands or a cookie scoop to roll the mixture into bite-sized balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. **Coat with Chocolate:**
– In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with the butter or shortening. Stir every 30 seconds until the chocolate is completely smooth.
– Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated, and return to the parchment-lined sheet. If desired, sprinkle with crushed nuts or sea salt before the chocolate sets.
4. **Chill and Serve:**
– Refrigerate the coated balls for at least 30 minutes or until the chocolate has hardened. Once set, they’re ready to serve.
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#### **Description**
Butterfinger Balls are the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and crunchy. The crushed Butterfinger candy provides a unique texture and a strong peanut butter flavor, while the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar create a smooth base. The chocolate coating adds a layer of richness, completing the perfect bite-sized treat. Their satisfying crunch and sweet taste make them an addictive snack, ideal for peanut butter and chocolate lovers alike.
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#### **Nutritional Information** (per ball, assuming 16 balls)
– **Calories**: 190
– **Fat**: 11g
– **Saturated Fat**: 3g
– **Cholesterol**: 5mg
– **Sodium**: 45mg
– **Carbohydrates**: 22g
– **Fiber**: 1g
– **Sugar**: 19g
– **Protein**: 3g
*Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.*
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#### **Conclusion**
Butterfinger Balls are a fun, easy-to-make treat that brings the beloved flavor of Butterfinger candy bars into a simple, no-bake form. They’re sweet, crunchy, and satisfying, making them an ideal snack for both casual occasions and festive events. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate never fails to please, and these little treats are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
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#### **Recommendation**
For an extra special touch, try packaging the Butterfinger Balls in decorative boxes or tins for gifting during holidays or special occasions. They also make a fantastic addition to a dessert table or as a sweet snack during movie nights. If you’re looking for a more decadent version, you can drizzle melted white chocolate over the dark chocolate coating for a stunning visual contrast.
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#### **Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
While Butterfinger Balls are undeniably indulgent, there are a few ways to make them a bit lighter without sacrificing flavor. Consider using dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for a slightly lower-sugar option. You can also substitute a lower-fat peanut butter or reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the mixture for a healthier alternative. For a protein boost, try adding some vanilla or chocolate protein powder to the peanut butter mixture. Enjoy these treats in moderation and embrace the balance between indulgence and healthier tweaks.