Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies are an irresistible treat that blends the creamy, rich flavor of Butterfinger candy with gooey caramel and a delicious cookie base. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or simply craving something sweet, these cookies are sure to impress. The combination of textures—from the crunchy chocolate to the soft caramel—makes each bite a delightful experience. Once you try them, you’ll understand why they’ve quickly become a favorite!
Why Make This Recipe
These cookies are more than just a dessert; they are a celebration of flavors that remind many of childhood treats. Imagine biting into a warm cookie, only to be greeted by pockets of melted caramel and the sweet crunch of Butterfinger pieces. Not only are these cookies fun to make, but they are also perfect for various occasions—from holiday gatherings to casual coffee dates.
“Made these for a school bake sale and they were gone in minutes! Everyone loved the crunch and sweetness.”
They are easy to whip up, making them a great choice for novice bakers or anyone looking to create something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
How to Make Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies
These cookies come together in a few straightforward steps. Here’s a quick overview of how this delightful recipe unfolds:
- Prep Your Candy: Gather and chop your Butterfinger bars, and unwrap your caramel squares.
- Make the Cookie Dough: Combine the butter, sugars, eggs, and dry ingredients to create a rich dough.
- Stuff These Bad Boys: Incorporate the chopped Butterfinger and caramel squares into the dough.
- Bake to Perfection: Roll the dough into balls and bake them until they’re golden and slightly gooey in the center.
- Exercise Restraint (Good Luck): Let them cool slightly before indulging, but it’s going to be a challenge!
Gather These Items
Here’s what you’ll need to create these mouthwatering cookies:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark, your call)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups chopped Butterfinger candy bars (about 8-10 fun-size bars), divided
- 24-30 soft caramel squares, unwrapped (Kraft caramels work great)
- 1 cup crushed Butterfinger pieces (about 4-5 fun-size bars, crushed fine)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for extra sparkle)
Feel free to consider substitutions, such as using a dairy-free butter alternative or opting for gluten-free flour if needed.
Directions to Follow
- Prep Your Candy: Start by chopping the Butterfinger bars into bite-sized pieces. Unwrap the soft caramel squares and set aside.
- Make the Cookie Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt, then gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until combined.
- Stuff These Bad Boys: Gently fold in the chopped Butterfinger candy. Next, take an appropriate amount of dough, flatten it in your hand, and place one or two caramel squares inside. Make sure to completely wrap the dough around the caramel, forming a ball.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookie dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spaced apart to allow for spreading. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until they are lightly golden.
- Exercise Restraint (Good Luck): Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Though tempting, let them cool sufficiently to enjoy the melted caramel center!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies are delicious on their own but can be elevated further with a few simple pairings. Here are some suggestions:
- Serve with a tall glass of cold milk for a classic combination.
- Pair with coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy afternoon treat.
- For a party, plate them with a sprinkle of crushed Butterfinger on top for a decorative touch.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Storing your Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies properly ensures they remain delicious for days. Here’s how:
- Room Temperature: Place in an airtight container, where they can stay fresh for up to a week.
- Refrigeration: If you want them to last longer, store them in the fridge for about two weeks.
- Freezing: To freeze, wrap individual cookies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy one!
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better incorporation into the dough.
- Don’t Overmix: After adding the dry ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies.
- Experiment with Texture: For added crunch, mix in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts.
Recipe Variations
Feel like switching it up? Here are some fun variations:
- Nutty Butterfinger Cookies: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for a nutty flavor.
- Dark Chocolate Version: Substitute dark chocolate chips for half of the Butterfinger pieces for an indulgent twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that works well in baking.
FAQs
How long does the preparation take?
Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with an additional 12 minutes for baking, making it a quick sweet treat.
Can I use other types of candy?
Absolutely! Try swapping Butterfinger for Snickers or Milky Way bars for a different flavor.
What if I don’t have soft caramels?
Hard caramels can work; just be aware they may take longer to melt. Consider microwaving them for a few seconds to soften.
Now that you’ve uncovered the recipe, it’s time to gather the ingredients and get baking! For more delicious inspirations like these, check out our {https://quickcakerecipes.com/protein-muffins/ recipes} or explore our page for unique ideas such as {https://quickcakerecipes.com/smash-cake/ fun cake recipes}.
For more cozy recipes and baking tips, follow us on our social pages: Pinterest and Facebook. Happy baking!