Butterfinger Crunch Cookies

Indulge in the ultimate cookie experience with these soft and chewy Butterfinger Cookies. Each bite is a symphony of flavors, featuring the irresistible crisp and crunchy Butterfinger bits perfectly blended with notes of rich butterscotch, creamy peanut butter, and decadent chocolate. These crave-worthy cookies are not just a treat; they’re an adventure for your taste buds, promising a delightful texture and an unforgettable taste that will have everyone reaching for more.

If you’re a fan of unique cookie creations and candy bar mash-ups, you’ll love exploring our other delightful recipes. Be sure to try our Candy Bar Cookies, perfect for any candy enthusiast, our festive Candy Cane Chocolate Chip Cookies, or the wonderfully refreshing Andes Mint Cookies. Each recipe offers a distinctive twist on classic favorites, ensuring there’s a perfect cookie for every occasion and craving.

Butterfinger cookies cooling on a wire rack.

The Ultimate Butterfinger Cookies: A Crispy, Chewy Delight

Prepare to discover your new absolute favorite soft and chewy cookie variation: the Butterfinger cookie. Imagine your beloved chocolate chip cookie, but instead of chocolate chips, it’s generously studded with tiny, irresistible bits of Butterfingers candy bars. Every single bite delivers a delightful, satisfying crunch, followed by the wonderfully sticky sweetness of butterscotch, and the rich, creamy essence of peanut butter, all harmoniously encased within a perfectly baked, tender cookie. This isn’t just a cookie; it’s an experience that transforms a classic treat into something truly extraordinary.

What makes these Butterfinger cookies stand out is their incredible adaptability. While the classic version is undeniably delicious, there are countless ways to customize this recipe and make it uniquely your own. You could experiment with a combination of traditional chocolate chips alongside the Butterfinger bits for an added layer of indulgence. Or, for a truly peanut-butter-lover’s dream, try blending Butterfingers with chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. For even more creative ideas and recipe variations to inspire your baking, continue reading below – the possibilities are endless!

The Magic Behind Butterfinger Bits

For those unfamiliar with the secret weapon in this recipe, allow us to introduce you to the glorious world of Butterfinger Baking Bits. Yes, that’s right – you can actually purchase tiny, pre-chopped morsels of that iconic crispy, butterscotch, and peanut butter flavored candy, perfectly ready to be folded directly into your cookie dough, incorporated into cakes, or generously sprinkled over a scoop of your favorite ice cream. These convenient bits save you time and effort, ensuring an even distribution of flavor and crunch throughout your baked goods.

However, if these specialized Butterfinger baking bits aren’t available at your local grocery store, there’s absolutely no need to worry. A simple alternative that works just as wonderfully is to take full-sized or fun-sized Butterfinger candy bars and chop them yourself into small pieces. This method yields equally delicious results, providing those signature crunchy fragments and a burst of flavor in every cookie. Don’t let the availability of specialized bits deter you from creating these incredible treats!

Why These Butterfinger Cookies Will Become Your Go-To Recipe

  • Effortlessly Prepare Ahead of Time: Just like many beloved cookie recipes, the dough for these delectable Butterfinger cookies is incredibly versatile. You can easily prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, ready to bake whenever a craving strikes. For even longer storage, the cookie dough can be frozen for up to two months, making it perfect for last-minute baking or having a stash of homemade treats on hand.
  • A Unique and Exciting Twist: This recipe offers a refreshingly unique take on the classic cookie without any added complexity. By simply incorporating Butterfinger bits, you elevate a standard cookie into something truly special and fun. It’s the ideal cookie to bake for any gathering, potluck, or party where you want to bring a dessert that’s a little different, yet still universally loved and incredibly simple to prepare.
  • Cleverly Utilize Leftover Halloween Candy: Are you perpetually stuck with an overflowing bowl of Halloween candy long after the trick-or-treaters have gone? These Butterfinger cookies provide the perfect solution! They’re an excellent and delicious way to use up that never-ending supply of Butterfingers, transforming surplus candy into a delightful homemade treat that everyone will appreciate.
  • Irresistible Flavor Combination: The distinct blend of crispy peanut butter and butterscotch toffee of a Butterfinger candy bar adds a multi-dimensional flavor profile to a classic cookie base. It’s a taste sensation that’s both familiar and exciting, satisfying cravings for sweetness, saltiness, and crunch all in one bite.
  • Crowd-Pleaser for All Ages: From kids to adults, the unique appeal of Butterfinger candy translates perfectly into cookie form. These cookies are guaranteed to be a hit at any event, making them a fantastic choice for family gatherings, school functions, or simply as a special treat at home.
A stack of cookies made using this butterfinger cookie recipe, with some cooling on a wire rack behind.

Key Ingredients You Will Need for Perfect Butterfinger Cookies

Crafting the perfect Butterfinger cookie relies on a careful selection of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving that desirable soft, chewy, and crunchy texture. Here’s a closer look at the essential components for this delightful recipe:

  • Butterfinger Bits (or Chopped Candy Bars): This is, of course, the star of the show! Whether you opt for the convenient pre-packaged Butterfinger baking bits or prefer to finely chop full-sized candy bars, these add the signature crispy, peanut butter, and butterscotch flavor. They provide an incredible textural contrast that makes these cookies so unique.
  • All-Purpose Flour: The foundational dry ingredient, all-purpose flour provides the structure for our cookies. Using the correct amount is crucial to prevent them from being too crumbly or too dense.
  • Sugars: Light Brown Sugar and Granulated Sugar: The combination of both sugars is key to the cookies’ exquisite texture and flavor. Light brown sugar contributes to a wonderfully soft and chewy interior, imparting a subtle molasses flavor and helping to keep the cookies moist. Granulated sugar, on the other hand, ensures a crispier edge and helps with proper spreading, balancing the chewiness for that ideal cookie experience.
  • Baking Soda and Baking Powder: These leavening agents are vital for achieving the perfect rise and a soft, airy texture. Baking soda reacts with the acidic brown sugar to create carbon dioxide, causing the cookies to puff up, while baking powder provides an extra lift, preventing them from becoming too flat and dense.
  • Salt: A pinch of salt is essential for enhancing all the other flavors in the cookie. It balances the sweetness of the sugars and candy, bringing out the nutty notes of the peanut butter and the rich undertones of the butterscotch.
  • Unsalted Butter (Room Temperature): High-quality unsalted butter forms the rich base of the cookie dough. Using room temperature butter is critical for proper creaming with the sugars, which incorporates air and results in a light, tender cookie texture. If your butter is too cold, it won’t cream properly; if it’s too warm, the dough might become greasy.
  • Large Eggs: Eggs serve multiple purposes in cookie dough. They act as a binder, holding all the ingredients together, and contribute to the cookie’s rich flavor and tender texture. The fat in the egg yolks adds moisture and helps create that desirable chewy consistency.
  • Vanilla Extract: A touch of pure vanilla extract elevates all the other flavors, adding warmth and depth to the cookie. Don’t skip this, as it brightens the overall taste profile.

A Step-by-Step Guide: How to Bake Irresistible Butterfinger Cookies

Creating these delightful Butterfinger cookies is a straightforward and rewarding process. Follow these detailed steps to ensure perfectly baked, soft, and chewy cookies every time.

  1. Prepare Your Dry Ingredients: Begin by preheating your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (160 degrees Celsius). In a medium-sized bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure they are evenly distributed. This step is important for consistent leavening throughout your cookies. Once mixed, set the bowl aside.
  2. Cream the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, either with a sturdy spatula for hand mixing or using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add your room temperature butter, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Cream these ingredients together until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and noticeably pale in color. This process usually takes about 3-4 minutes, and it’s crucial for incorporating air into your dough, leading to a tender cookie.
  3. Incorporate the Eggs: Once the butter and sugars are perfectly creamed, add the large eggs one at a time. After each egg addition, mix thoroughly until it is fully incorporated into the dough. Remember to pause and scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl with your spatula to ensure all ingredients are well combined and no streaks of unmixed batter remain.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the reserved flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed (if using a stand mixer) or by hand until the flour is just combined and no dry streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as overworking the dough can lead to tough cookies.
  5. Fold in the Butterfinger Bits: Now, it’s time for the star ingredient! Add all but approximately ½ cup of the chopped Butterfinger bits to the cookie dough. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the candy pieces into the dough by hand. Continue folding until the Butterfinger bits are evenly distributed throughout the dough, making sure to scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl to catch any stray pieces.
  6. Scoop and Shape the Dough: Using a small ice cream scoop (or a tablespoon for more uniform cookies), scoop out portions of the cookie dough. Roll each portion into smooth, approximately 1¼-inch balls. Place these dough balls about 2 inches apart on a baking sheet that has been lined with parchment paper. Gently flatten each dough ball slightly with the palm of your hand until they are about ¾-inch thick. This helps ensure even baking and a beautiful cookie shape.
Butterfinger cookie dough balls on a parchment paper lined baking sheet ready to bake.
  1. Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the baking sheets in your preheated 325-degree Fahrenheit oven. Bake for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies turn a delicate, light golden brown. The centers may still appear slightly soft, which is exactly what you want for a chewy interior.
  2. Add Finishing Touch: Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, while they are still warm and pliable, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of reserved Butterfinger pieces over the tops of the cookies. This not only adds extra flavor and crunch but also makes them look incredibly appealing.
  3. Cool and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This crucial step allows them to set up and prevents them from breaking when transferred. After a few minutes, carefully transfer the warm cookies to wire cooling racks to cool completely. Once cooled, they are ready to be savored!
A wire rack full of cookies made with butterfingers candy bars.

Frequently Asked Questions About Butterfinger Cookies

Are Butterfingers gluten-free?

The original Butterfinger candy bars are indeed gluten-free, which is great news for those with dietary restrictions. However, it’s always imperative to check the packaging of any Butterfinger product you purchase, as many of their various flavors and seasonal variations may contain gluten. If you intend to make these cookies completely gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with your preferred gluten-free flour blend, ensuring the candy bits are also certified gluten-free.

Can you freeze these cookies or the dough?

Absolutely! These Butterfinger cookies are excellent candidates for freezing, both in their baked form and as raw dough. You can freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months, perfect for a quick treat later. For the dough, we recommend scooping the cookie dough balls, arranging them flat on a baking sheet, and freezing them until solid. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to freezer-safe bags or containers. They can be stored this way for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a prepared baking sheet and bake as directed, adding an extra couple of minutes to the baking time to account for the frozen state.

Should you chill the dough before baking?

While not strictly necessary, chilling your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) is always a good idea if you have the time. Chilling the dough allows the flour a chance to fully absorb any excess moisture, leading to a more developed flavor and better texture. More importantly, it cools down the butter in the dough, which helps to prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven, resulting in thicker, chewier cookies with a more consistent shape. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in the final outcome.

What is the best way to chop Butterfinger candy bars?

If you’re using full-sized Butterfinger bars instead of baking bits, place them in a freezer for 10-15 minutes before chopping. This makes them firmer and less likely to crumble excessively or stick to your knife. Use a sharp chef’s knife and cut them into small, bite-sized pieces, roughly the size of chocolate chips. You can also place them in a zip-top bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin for varying sizes of chunks.

How can I ensure my cookies are soft and chewy?

Several factors contribute to soft and chewy cookies. Firstly, using a combination of granulated and brown sugar (as in this recipe) is key. Brown sugar adds moisture and chewiness. Secondly, avoid overmixing the flour once it’s added to the wet ingredients. Overmixing develops gluten, which can make cookies tough. Lastly, and most importantly, do not overbake! Pull the cookies from the oven when the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers still look slightly soft. They will continue to set as they cool on the baking sheet.

Exciting Recipe Variations to Customize Your Butterfinger Cookies

While the original Butterfinger cookie recipe is a masterpiece in itself, there are many delightful ways to customize and experiment with flavors and textures. Here are some exciting variations to inspire your next baking session:

  • Elevate with Peanut Butter Dough: For the ultimate peanut butter indulgence, consider making these cookies using our rich and delicious peanut butter cookie dough as the base. The incredible pairing of the sweet butterscotch and toffee crunch from the Butterfingers with a soft, intensely peanut buttery cookie is seriously delicious and creates an unforgettable flavor profile.
  • Add Classic Chocolate Chips: If you can’t resist the timeless combination of chocolate and candy, feel free to add about 1 to 1½ cups of your favorite chocolate chips (milk, semi-sweet, or dark) to the cookie dough alongside the Butterfinger pieces. This adds an extra layer of chocolatey goodness and varied texture.
  • Substitute with Toffee Pieces: Butterfingers naturally possess a wonderful toffee flavor, making toffee bits an excellent substitute if you’re looking for a similar crunch and caramel-like taste. You can use plain toffee bits or chocolate-covered toffee bits for an extra treat.
  • Experiment with Different Candy Bars: The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. As long as they are chopped into bite-sized pieces, you can try incorporating almost any kind of candy bar you desire. A few fantastic ideas include:
    • Kit Kats: For a lighter, crispy wafer texture.
    • Snickers: To add nougat, caramel, and more peanuts.
    • Twix: For a shortbread crunch and caramel chew.
    • Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups: If you love more creamy peanut butter, this is a perfect addition.
    • Heath Bars: Similar to toffee bits, but with a distinct crunchy almond toffee flavor.
  • Sprinkle with Sea Salt: A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the warm cookies just after baking can magically enhance all the flavors, balancing the sweetness and adding a gourmet touch.
  • Drizzle with Chocolate: Once the cookies are completely cooled, melt some chocolate (milk, dark, or white) and drizzle it artfully over the tops. This adds an extra layer of flavor and makes them look even more professional.

Optimal Storage Instructions for Freshness

To ensure your Butterfinger cookies remain as delicious as the day they were baked, proper storage is essential. Follow these guidelines for keeping them fresh, whether you plan to enjoy them now or later:

  • Room Temperature Storage: Baked cookies can be stored in a covered, airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To maintain their best texture, it’s generally recommended not to refrigerate these cookies. The toffee bits within Butterfingers tend to absorb moisture in a cold environment, which can make them less crispy and potentially alter the cookie’s desired chewiness.
  • Freezer Storage for Baked Cookies: For longer preservation, baked Butterfinger cookies freeze beautifully. Once completely cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe, airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be stored for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
  • Make-Ahead Freezer Dough: This recipe is fantastic for meal prepping or having a stash of ready-to-bake cookies. Prepare the cookie dough as directed, then scoop and roll the dough into individual balls. Place these dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight freezer container or bag. The cookie dough can be frozen for up to two months. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake, adding an additional 2-4 minutes to the original baking time.

More Delicious Recipes You’ll Love

If you’ve fallen in love with the delightful combination of soft cookies and crispy candy, here are more incredible recipes from our kitchen that you’re sure to enjoy, perfect for expanding your baking repertoire:

Heath Toffee Cookies

Reese’s Pieces Cookies

Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Cookies Recipe

Crushed Peppermint Cookies

Combining the beloved soft and chewy cookie texture with the crispy, peanut butter, and butterscotch goodness of Butterfingers candy bars is truly something you absolutely have to try. These cookies are wonderfully easy to whip up when you’re in the mood for a treat that’s a little out of the ordinary, or when you find yourself with an abundance of leftover Halloween candy that needs a delicious purpose!

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Butterfinger Cookies Recipe

Author The Carefree Kitchen
These soft and chewy Butterfinger Cookies are filled with bits of crisp and crunchy Butterfingers candy bars. Enjoy the flavors of butterscotch, peanut butter, and chocolate in every bite of these craveworthy cookies.
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Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 10 minutes
Total: 25 minutes
Yields24 cookies

Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup butter, room temperature
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup light brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs
  • 10 ounces Butterfinger candy bars, chopped (divided)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.
  • In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk until ingredients are well combined, then set aside.
  • In a large bowl with a spatula, or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, add the butter, sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla and cream together until light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing them in after each addition, and scraping the bottom and sides of the bowl to make sure you combine everything.
  • Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture and mix on low until just combined, then add all but 1/2 cup of the chopped Butterfingers. Mix gently by hand using a rubber spatula, making sure to scrape the bottoms and sides of the bowl and combine all ingredients well.
  • Using a small ice cream scoop, scoop and roll dough into 1¼” balls. Place them about 2″ apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use the palm of your hand to press the balls down slightly so the dough ball is about 3/4″ thick.
  • Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn lightly golden brown. Once baked, remove from the oven and sprinkle the reserved Butterfinger pieces on top of the cookies.
  • Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a couple minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!

Notes

Storing Instructions: Store cookies in a covered airtight container for up a week at room temperature. It’s best not to refrigerate these, as the toffee bits tend to collect quite a bit of moisture.

Freezer: Freeze cookie dough or baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Make-ahead tips: Make, scoop, and freeze the cookie dough for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 242kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 36mg | Sodium: 186mg | Potassium: 58mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 22g | Vitamin A: 259IU | Calcium: 18mg | Iron: 1mg

Disclaimer: Nutritional values were calculated using a third-party tool and are provided as an estimation only.

Course Dessert
Cuisine American


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