Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cookies

These Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cookies are truly a game-changer! If you thought peanut butter cookies were already delicious, wait until you try them with chopped-up Butterfinger bits mixed in. They are perfect for any occasion—from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations. The combination of soft, thick peanut butter cookie dough and crispy, crunchy candy bits creates a unique texture and flavor that will leave everyone wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of rich peanut butter and sweet Butterfinger creates an addictive treat.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, these cookies come together quickly, making them perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Treat: Great for parties, holidays, or just a cozy night in—these cookies fit any occasion.
• Freezer Friendly: Prepare a batch ahead of time and freeze the dough or baked cookies for later enjoyment.
• Soft & Chewy Texture: Each bite is soft and chewy with delightful crunchy bits that add character.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth, gather the essential tools listed below before you start. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or large bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Cookie scoop (optional)
• Wire cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or large bowl: A stand mixer helps achieve a creamy consistency quickly, while a large bowl allows for easy mixing by hand.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: These tools prevent sticking and ensure even baking for perfect cookies every time.

Ingredients

These Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cookies are unreal! I thought Peanut Butter Cookies couldn’t get any better…But then I added chopped up Butterfinger bits and my life changed forever! A delightfully soft and THICK peanut butter cookie with crispety, crunchety, peanut-buttery bits that make it taste like a peanut brittle cookie.

For the Cookie Dough

• 3/4 cup butter (softened (1 and 1/2 sticks))
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 cup peanut butter (don’t use natural pb)
• 1 large egg
• 1 & 1/2 teaspoons vanilla

For the Dry Ingredients

• 1 & 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Candy Addition

• 16 ounces Butterfinger (chopped)

How to Make Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat 3/4 cup softened butter until it is smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 2: Add Sugars

Add 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 cup packed brown sugar. Beat well for about 2 minutes until fluffy. Ensure there are no chunks of butter remaining.

Step 3: Incorporate Peanut Butter

Mix in 1 cup of peanut butter until fully combined.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Crack in one large egg followed by 1 & 1/2 teaspoons vanilla. Mix until all ingredients are smoothly incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, spoon and level out 1 & 1/2 cups all-purpose flour. Add this to your mixture without stirring yet. Sprinkle on top:
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Stir gently to combine dry ingredients before mixing into the wet mixture.

Step 6: Mix Dough Together

Turn on the mixer at low speed to combine everything gently. Stop once the dough starts coming together but still has some visible flour.

Step 7: Add Chopped Butterfingers

Fold in your chopped Butterfingers until they are just barely incorporated into the dough.

Step 8: Chill the Dough

Cover your dough with plastic wrap or a lid and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes up to one hour (or even up to 24 hours if you prefer).

Step 9: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.

Step 10: Shape Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or your hands, shape dough into approximately two-inch balls. Place them on prepared sheets about an inch apart.

Step 11: Bake Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, watching closely as they bake until edges set but centers remain soft.

Step 12: Cool Down

Let cookies cool on their pan for at least five minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy these delightful Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cookies fresh from your kitchen!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cookies

These Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cookies are a delicious treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a simple snack or something more elaborate, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair your cookies with cold milk for a classic combination. The creamy texture complements the rich peanut butter flavor beautifully.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter for parties or gatherings. Add some fresh fruit or chocolate-covered treats to create an inviting spread.

As an Ice Cream Sandwich

• Sandwich your favorite ice cream between two cookies for an indulgent dessert. Choose flavors like vanilla or chocolate to enhance the peanut butter taste.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea. The flavors contrast nicely, making for a delightful afternoon treat.

Crumbled Over Yogurt

• Crumble cookies over Greek yogurt for a quick and tasty breakfast or snack. Drizzle with honey for added sweetness and depth.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cookies

To achieve the best Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cookies, consider these helpful tips that will enhance your baking skills.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix Dough: Mix until just combined to avoid tough cookies; overworking dough can lead to undesirable results.
• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill before baking enhances flavor and prevents excessive spreading during baking.
• Watch Your Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; they should be set at the edges but still soft in the center.
• Add Extra Toppings: Sprinkle extra chopped Butterfinger bits on top before baking for added crunch and visual appeal.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and enjoy them later!

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cookies

These Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their enjoyment. Consider serving them alongside:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These sweet treats offer a decadent contrast to the nutty flavors of the cookies.
3. Peanut Butter Smoothie: Blend bananas, almond milk, and peanut butter for a creamy drink that pairs well with your cookies.
4. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream is perfect for those who want to indulge further.
5. Nutty Granola Bar: Serve with homemade granola bars for a crunchy texture that complements the soft cookies.
6. Chocolate Milkshake: For chocoholics, this rich shake is an excellent pairing that enhances every bite of cookie bliss.
7. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy bites add another layer of sweetness while providing delightful coconut flavor.
8. Caramel Sauce Dipping: Offer caramel sauce on the side for those who love dipping their cookies in something sweet!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking these Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cookies is a joy, but there are common pitfalls that can lead to disappointing results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using natural peanut butter – Natural peanut butter can alter the texture of the cookies. Stick with conventional peanut butter for the best results.
• Overmixing the dough – Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined to maintain softness.
• Skipping the chilling step – Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much. Don’t skip this step for perfectly shaped cookies.
• Not measuring flour correctly – Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents too much flour and leads to a denser cookie.
• Ignoring baking times – Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your cookies and adjust baking time as needed to avoid overbaking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking cookies.

Freezing Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cookies

• Freeze cookie dough balls in a ziplock bag for up to 3 months.
• You can also freeze baked cookies in a sealed container for up to 4 weeks.

Reheating Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cookies

• Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop – Warm on low heat in a skillet, flipping gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use other types of candy instead of Butterfinger?

Yes! You can substitute with any chocolate candy or mix-ins you prefer, like Reese’s pieces or chocolate chips.

How do I get my cookies thicker?

To achieve thicker cookies, chill the dough longer before baking and ensure not to flatten them while shaping.

What if I can’t find Butterfinger Bits?

You can chop regular Butterfinger bars into small pieces as an alternative; just make sure they are evenly sized.

Can I make these Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that works well in baking.

Final Thoughts

These Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cookies are sure to impress with their rich flavor and delightful texture. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or stored for later, they offer versatility in customization – feel free to experiment with different candies or nut butters. Try this recipe today and discover your new favorite cookie!