Description
Craving a dessert that’s so decadent it feels like a candy bar in pie form? Look no further than Butterfinger Pie! This no-bake treat combines creamy peanut butter, rich cream cheese, and crunchy Butterfinger candy bars in a graham cracker crust for a dessert that’s pure bliss. Wondering how to whip up this sweet, crunchy, and oh-so-easy pie that’ll have everyone begging for a slice? Let’s dive into this simple recipe that’s perfect for parties, holidays, or just satisfying your sweet tooth!
Ingredients
-
Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened): Creates a rich, tangy base for the filling.
-
Whipped Topping (8 oz, like Cool Whip): Adds a light, fluffy texture to the filling.
-
Powdered Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the filling and helps achieve a smooth consistency.
-
Creamy Peanut Butter (½ cup): Brings a nutty, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with Butterfinger.
-
Butterfinger Candy Bars (3, crushed): Provide the signature crunchy, chocolate-peanut butter flavor and texture.
-
Pre-Made Graham Cracker Crust (1, 9-inch): A convenient, buttery base that holds the filling.
-
Vanilla Extract (½ tsp): Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, sweet note.
Substitutions and Variations
-
Cream Cheese: Use reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter option, though it may be less creamy.
-
Whipped Topping: Make your own whipped cream by whipping 1 cup heavy cream with 2 tbsp powdered sugar, or use a dairy-free whipped topping.
-
Peanut Butter: Crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture, or use almond butter or sunflower seed butter for nut-free options.
-
Butterfinger: Swap for other crunchy candy bars like Snickers, Heath, or Reese’s Pieces.
-
Crust: Use a chocolate cookie crust or a homemade graham cracker crust for a different flavor.
-
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free graham cracker crust and ensure the Butterfinger bars are gluten-free.
Instructions
-
Mix the Filling Base:
-
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to beat 8 oz softened cream cheese and 1 cup powdered sugar until smooth and creamy (about 1–2 minutes).
-
-
Add Peanut Butter and Vanilla:
-
Add ½ cup creamy peanut butter and ½ tsp vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until well combined and smooth.
-
-
Fold in Whipped Topping:
-
Gently fold in 8 oz whipped topping with a spatula until the mixture is light and fluffy. Be careful not to overmix to keep the airy texture.
-
-
Incorporate Butterfinger:
-
Stir in 2 crushed Butterfinger candy bars, reserving the third for topping. Mix until evenly distributed.
-
-
Assemble the Pie:
-
Spoon the filling into the pre-made graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface.
-
-
Add Topping:
-
Sprinkle the remaining crushed Butterfinger candy bar evenly over the top for extra crunch and visual appeal.
-
-
Chill:
-
Cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set the filling and enhance the flavors.
-
-
Serve:
-
Slice into 8–10 pieces with a sharp knife and serve chilled.
-
Cooking Tips
-
Room-Temperature Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese blends smoothly, avoiding lumps in the filling.
-
Crush Butterfinger Easily: Place the candy bars in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin for quick, even pieces.
-
Gentle Folding: Fold the whipped topping carefully to maintain the filling’s light, fluffy texture.
-
Clean Slices: Dip a knife in hot water and wipe clean between cuts for neat slices.