Introduction to Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies
Hey everyone who loves cookies! If you are anything like me, the idea of making a treat is an escape to a nice portion of the day getting very busy-that’s where my Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies come in-they’re not just cookies, they’re tiny little bites of joy! Totally inarguable Butterfinger candy bars, caramel bits, and a sprinkle of peanuts would make these sure winners for all occasions.
Whether you’re surprising your kids after school or sweetening up a gathering with friends, this recipe is a surefire way to impress. Plus, they’re simple enough to whip up on a hectic day. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this gem in your back pocket!
Why You’ll Love This Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies
Let’s be honest—life can be hectic, and finding time to bake shouldn’t add to the chaos. That’s why these Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies are a game-changer! They’re quick to make, taking just about 27 minutes from start to finish. The balance of buttery cookies, creamy caramel, and the crunch of peanuts makes each bite irresistible. Plus, they’re bound to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones!
Ingredients for Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies
Before we dive into baking, let’s gather everything we need for those delightful Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies. Here’s what you’ll require:
- Unsalted butter: This adds richness and a lovely texture to the cookies. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Light brown sugar: Packed for moisture and that caramel-like flavor we adore in cookies.
- Granulated sugar: This helps with the cookie’s structure and sweetness, creating that perfect balance.
- Large eggs: They bind the ingredients together and add moisture. Room temperature eggs work best.
- Vanilla extract: Just a teaspoon enhances the flavor, making these cookies even more irresistibly delicious.
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of any cookie, it gives structure. No fancy flour needed here!
- Baking soda: A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise and become light and fluffy.
- Salt: A hint of salt enhances all the flavors; it’s the secret ingredient every baker should know.
- Crushed Butterfinger candy bars: The star of the show! They bring that amazing chocolate-peanut butter crunch.
- Caramel bits: These sweet little nuggets melt beautifully, creating pockets of gooey goodness.
- Chopped peanuts: For a delightful crunch that balances the softness of the cookie. Feel free to swap with another nut if you want!
- Sea salt flakes: A sprinkle on top adds a sophisticated touch that elevates these cookies to a whole new level.
For exact quantities, just scroll down a bit! You’ll find all the details neatly listed, perfect for your next baking adventure.
How to Make Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies
Now that we have all our ingredients, let’s get those Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies baking! Follow these simple steps, and I promise you’ll have your kitchen filled with the delightful aroma of freshly baked cookies.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. This is a crucial step because a properly heated oven ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat your softened unsalted butter with light brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes smooth and fluffy. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes. The fluffiness is the key to achieving that perfect cookie texture!
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
While your butter and sugars are getting cozy, grab another bowl. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately helps to distribute the baking soda evenly throughout the cookie dough.
Step 4: Mix Everything Together
Now, it’s time to add the eggs, one at a time. Beat well after each addition, making sure they’re fully mixed in before moving onto the next. Then, add the vanilla extract. Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined; you don’t want to overmix here!
Step 5: Shape Your Cookies
Next up, gently fold in your crushed Butterfinger candy bars, caramel bits, and chopped peanuts. This is where the magic happens! Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, drop portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave about 2 inches between each cookie for spreading.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Before popping those beauties in the oven, sprinkle a few sea salt flakes over each dough ball. This little touch elevates the flavor! Bake your cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Tips for Success
- Always use room temperature butter for easier mixing and fluffiness.
- Don’t overmix your dough; just combine until you see no dry flour!
- For uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop.
- Chilling your dough for 30 minutes can help reduce spreading if it’s too warm.
- Mix in extra chopped Butterfinger bars for a crunchy surprise!
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls: A large bowl for mixing dough and a medium bowl for dry ingredients.
- Electric mixer: Use a hand mixer or stand mixer, whichever you have on hand.
- Baking sheet: A simple pan works, but a silicone mat makes cleanup a breeze!
- Cookie scoop: A tablespoon will do if you don’t have one.
- Parchment paper: Needed for lining your baking sheet, or use a silicone mat for a reusable option.
Variations
- For a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped peanuts or substitute with sunflower seeds.
- Add a sprinkle of chocolate chips for an extra dose of sweetness and richness.
- For a spicier kick, incorporate a pinch of cinnamon into the dry ingredients.
- Try using toffee bits instead of caramel for a different texture and flavor twist.
- Experiment with peanut butter chips alongside the Butterfinger for a double peanut butter delight!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies with a tall glass of cold milk for the ultimate sweet experience.
- For an elevated treat, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
- Presentation matters! Arrange cookies on a pretty platter and garnish with additional crushed Butterfinger bits.
- Perfect for movie nights, pack them in a cute box for a thoughtful gift.
FAQs about Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies
Can I use other candies instead of Butterfinger?
Absolutely! While Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies shine with their unique flavor, you can swap in your favorite chocolate bar. Try Snickers for caramel richness or even a combo of Skittles for fruity sweetness!
How do I store these cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delightful for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough up to three days in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to soften slightly before scooping. Freshly baked cookies in no time!
Why are my cookies spreading too much?
If your Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies are spread too thin, it could be the temperature of your butter. Ensure it’s softened but not melted. Also, chilling the dough for 30 minutes can help reduce spreading.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup for cup, and you can still enjoy the amazing taste of these cookies without gluten.
Final Thoughts
Bringing the delightful Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies into your home is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories with loved ones. The laughter around the kitchen while whisking and pouring, the delicious aroma wafting through your home, and the joy of sharing a warm cookie fresh from the oven—it’s pure magic!
These cookies are a tasty escape from the everyday grind. So grab your apron, gather your kids or friends, and create something truly special. I promise you, every bite will be a hug for your taste buds!
PrintButterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies
Delicious Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies filled with crushed Butterfinger candy bars, caramel bits, and chopped peanuts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups crushed Butterfinger candy bars
- 1 cup caramel bits
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt flakes (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- In a large bowl, beat softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in vanilla extract until combined.
- Whisk flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add dry mixture to wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Gently fold in crushed Butterfinger bars, caramel bits, and chopped peanuts, ensuring even distribution throughout the dough.
- Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, place dough portions onto baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Sprinkle sea salt flakes over each dough ball. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until edges are golden and centers are soft.
- Let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- For extra crunch, you can add more chopped peanuts.
- Adjust baking time to ensure cookies are perfectly soft.
- Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg