Introduction
Delve into the delightful world of baking with Peanut Butter Butterfinger Delight Cookies, a sinfully sweet treat that perfectly combines the rich flavors of creamy peanut butter and crunchy Butterfinger candy. These cookies are not only quick and easy to make but also an indulgent dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Perfect for any occasion, they deliver a satisfying crunch alongside a soft, chewy texture that is irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving something sweet, these cookies are sure to become a favorite.
The unique combination of peanut butter and Butterfinger makes these cookies stand out with their rich, nutty flavor and delightful chocolatey-crunchy finish. Children and adults alike will adore these cookies, finding joy in their familiar yet creative flavors. Perfectly paired with a glass of cold milk, they make for a comforting snack or a sweet ending to your family meals. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of creating these mouth-watering cookies, ensuring they turn out perfectly every time.
Recipe Overview
Peanut Butter Butterfinger Delight Cookies are a delicious American dessert that captures the essence of classic cookie recipes while adding a unique twist with the addition of Butterfinger candy.
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 12 minutes
– Total Time: 22 minutes
– Course: Dessert
– Cuisine: American
– Servings: 12 cookies
– Calories: ~150 per cookie
Key Features
These cookies will not only fulfill your sugar cravings but also offer an impressive flavor profile that will keep your loved ones coming back for more. The creamy peanut butter harmonizes beautifully with the crunchy Butterfinger pieces, creating a delightful contrast in texture and taste.
Flavor Profile
These cookies exhibit a rich peanut butter flavor, complemented by the sweet, crunchy goodness of Butterfinger candy, making them a delightful treat for both children and adults alike.
Ingredients
To prepare these delightful cookies, gather the following ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 cup Butterfinger candy bars, crushed into small pieces
Instructions
1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and granulated sugar. Mix them together until the mixture is smooth and has a creamy texture.
3. Crack the large egg into the bowl and add the pure vanilla extract. Stir the mixture until all ingredients are well incorporated and the batter is fluffy.
4. Sprinkle the baking soda into the mixture and stir thoroughly to ensure it is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Carefully fold in the crushed Butterfinger candy bars, making sure they are evenly scattered throughout the dough for that delightful crunch in every bite.
6. Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring to space them about 2 inches apart for even baking.
7. Gently press down each cookie with the back of a fork or your fingers to create a slight flattening effect, which will help them bake evenly.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies turn a lovely golden brown.
9. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Indulge in your scrumptious Peanut Butter Butterfinger Delight Cookies, best enjoyed with a refreshing glass of milk or your favorite drink!
Prepping the Baking Environment
Preheating the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating the oven is a crucial step in baking because it sets the optimal temperature for the cookies to rise and bake evenly. An adequately preheated oven ensures that the cookie dough starts cooking immediately upon being placed inside, which is vital for achieving the right texture.
Preparing the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, which will prevent the cookies from sticking and promote even baking. The parchment paper acts as a barrier between the cookie dough and the hot surface of the baking sheet, helping to prevent any burning or sticking that could lead to a ruined batch. If you find yourself without parchment paper, light greasing of the baking sheet is an option, but parchment is highly recommended for the best results.
Mixing the Dough
Combining Peanut Butter and Sugar
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter with the granulated sugar. Use a mixing tool to blend them together until smooth and creamy. The creaminess of the peanut butter mixed with the sweetness of the sugar creates a base that is not only delicious but also pleasant to work with. The goal is to achieve a fluffy, well-combined mixture that forms the foundation of your cookie dough.
Adding Eggs and Vanilla
Crack the large egg into the mixture and add the pure vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are seamlessly blended and the batter takes on a fluffy texture. The egg acts as a binding agent, holding the ingredients together and contributing to the overall texture of the cookies. Meanwhile, the vanilla extract enhances the flavor profile, adding a fragrant sweetness that complements the peanut butter and sugar.
Incorporating Leavening Agent
Adding Baking Soda
Sprinkle the baking soda into the mixture and stir thoroughly to ensure it is evenly distributed throughout the dough. The baking soda serves to leaven the cookies as they bake, helping them achieve a light, airy quality. It’s essential to mix well after adding the baking soda to prevent any clumps and ensure uniformity in the dough, which will result in consistently baked cookies.
time of just 22 minutes from prep to finish, these cookies are the perfect quick treat for any occasion. Their delightful flavor and texture make them a favorite among cookie lovers.
Folding in Butterfinger
Crushing the Candy
Preparing your Butterfinger candy bars by crushing them into small pieces is essential for achieving the right consistency and flavor in your cookies. You can use a rolling pin, a food processor, or even your hands to break the candy into manageable chunks. Aim for pieces that are about the size of a chocolate chip, as this allows for the perfect balance of chocolate and peanut butter in each bite.
Mixing into the Dough
After crushing the Butterfinger bars, it’s time to incorporate them into the dough. This step is crucial as it ensures that every cookie will be packed with that signature Butterfinger flavor. Gently fold the crushed candy into the dough using a spatula, being careful not to over-mix. The goal is to have the candy distributed evenly so that every bite delivers a delicious crunch combined with that creamy peanut butter goodness.
Shaping the Cookies
Scooping the Dough
Once the Butterfinger is folded into the dough, the next step is to scoop the cookie portions. Using a tablespoon, scoop out the dough and place it onto your lined baking sheet. Make sure to leave about 2 inches of space between each scoop. This spacing is vital as it allows the cookies to spread without merging together while they bake, giving each cookie room to achieve its optimal shape and size.
Pressing down the Cookies
Before placing the baking sheet in the oven, gently press down each cookie dough ball with the back of a fork or your fingers. Flattening the cookies slightly not only ensures even baking, resulting in a perfect texture, but also enhances their appearance, making them look enticingly delicious straight from the oven.
Baking the Cookies
Time to Bake
With the cookies shaped and ready, place the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, keeping a close eye on them during the final few minutes. The edges should turn a lovely golden brown while the centers may still appear slightly soft, which is exactly what you want. This slight underbaking contributes to a chewy texture once they’ve cooled.
Post-Baking Rest
After the timer goes off, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the cookies sit on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the cookies to firm up, making it easier to transfer them without breaking. They will continue to bake slightly from the residual heat on the baking sheet, achieving that perfect eat-with-your-hands softness.
Cooling and Serving
Transferring to a Wire Rack
Once the cookies have rested on the baking sheet, it’s time to move them to a wire rack. Gently slide a spatula under each cookie and transfer them to the rack, allowing them to cool completely. This step is imperative to maintaining their texture; leaving them on the baking sheet too long may result in sogginess. Cooling on a wire rack allows for air circulation around the cookies, preserving that nice chewy center and delicate outer crust.
Presentation Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Peanut Butter Butterfinger Delight Cookies, presentation can elevate the experience. Arrange the cookies on a decorative plate, and for a special touch, consider sprinkling some extra crushed Butterfinger pieces on top. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also hints at the delectable crunch waiting inside. You might also serve them with a side of peanut butter dip for those who want to indulge further and elevate their snacking experience.
Storage Tips
Keeping the Cookies Fresh
To ensure your cookies remain fresh for days to come, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This practice will help maintain their soft texture and rich flavor. It’s always a good idea to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
Freezing for Later
If you’re looking to enjoy these delightful cookies at a later date, freezing is an excellent option. Once the cookies are completely cooled, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. This method prevents them from sticking together and losing their shape. To enjoy later, simply remove the desired number of cookies from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes, or slightly warm them in the microwave.
Nutritional Information
Caloric Breakdown
Each of the delightful Peanut Butter Butterfinger Delight Cookies contains an approximate calorie count of ~150. This makes them a suitable treat for those who wish to indulge without going overboard. They represent a sweet balance of flavors without completely derailing any dietary goals.
Ingredient Highlights
The primary ingredients in these cookies contribute significantly to their nutritional profile. Creamy peanut butter is not only a source of flavor but also provides healthy fats and protein, making these cookies a more satisfying dessert option. Meanwhile, the crushed Butterfinger adds a touch of sugar and sweetness that complements the nutty richness of the peanut butter, resulting in an overall delightful flavor experience.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Butterfinger Delight Cookies are a scrumptious dessert that delivers a perfect balance of delicious flavors and textures. The combination of creamy peanut butter and crunchy Butterfinger pieces makes these cookies a delightful treat for any occasion. Simple to make with minimal prep, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Peanut Butter Butterfinger Delight Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup Butterfinger candy bars crushed
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and sugar until smooth.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, stirring until well incorporated.
- Mix in the baking soda until evenly distributed.
- Fold in the crushed Butterfinger candy bars.
- Scoop portions of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Press down each cookie slightly with a fork or your fingers.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Enjoy your cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite drink!