Butterfinger Pie With Peanut Butter is not just a dessert; it’s an experience, a symphony of textures and flavors that will undoubtedly become a new family favorite. Have you ever craved that perfect blend of rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and the irresistible crunch of a classic candy bar all in one decadent bite? If so, then you are in for an absolute treat today! This incredible pie takes the beloved components of a Butterfinger candy bar – the crispy, flaky peanut butter core enrobed in chocolate – and transforms them into a sublime, creamy dessert, perfectly complemented by an extra layer of luscious peanut butter.
While the exact origins of combining these elements into a pie might be difficult to pinpoint, it certainly captures the spirit of American comfort food innovation, a modern classic born from a love for popular candies and the timeless appeal of peanut butter. It’s a dish that evokes nostalgia for childhood treats while elevating them into sophisticated dessert territory. People adore this particular Butterfinger Pie With Peanut Butter recipe not only for its unbelievably delicious taste and the exciting textural contrast it offers but also for its surprisingly straightforward preparation. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks, celebrations, or simply indulging your sweet tooth after a long week. Get ready to impress everyone with this show-stopping dessert!
Ingredients:
Creating this irresistible Butterfinger Pie With Peanut Butter is a joyous experience, and it all begins with gathering the right components. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of creamy, crunchy, and utterly delightful flavor that will make this pie an instant favorite.
- For the Crust:
- Approximately 14-16 ounces (about 35-40 full-size cookies) chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos), crushed fine. I find that using the entire cookie, including the cream filling, contributes to a richer, more cohesive crust.
- 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted. Good quality butter is key here for both flavor and binding the cookie crumbs.
- For the Creamy Peanut Butter Filling:
- 1 (8-ounce/226g) package full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature. This is non-negotiable for a smooth, lump-free filling. I always pull it out at least an hour beforehand.
- 1 cup (250g) creamy peanut butter. While crunchy peanut butter might sound appealing, I’ve found that creamy delivers the smoothest, most luxurious texture for this pie’s filling, allowing the Butterfinger pieces to provide all the crunch. Make sure it’s a standard, shelf-stable variety, not natural peanut butter that separates, as that can affect the filling’s consistency.
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar), sifted. Sifting prevents lumps and ensures a silky-smooth finish. Trust me, it makes a difference!
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract. A touch of vanilla enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
- 1 (12-ounce/340g) container frozen whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed in the refrigerator. This provides the airy lightness that balances the richness of the cream cheese and peanut butter. If you prefer, you can make 2 cups of fresh whipped cream from heavy cream, but for consistency and ease, the thawed whipped topping works wonderfully in this recipe for Butterfinger Pie With Peanut Butter.
- For the Butterfinger Crunch:
- 8-10 regular-sized Butterfinger candy bars (approximately 1.5-2 ounces each), roughly chopped or crushed. The number depends on how much crunch you want in each bite, but I find 8-10 offers a generous distribution of that unique Butterfinger flavor and texture. You can go up to 12 if you’re a true Butterfinger fanatic!
- For Garnish (Optional, but highly recommended!):
- Additional crushed Butterfinger candy bars.
- A drizzle of melted chocolate or peanut butter sauce.
- Extra dollops of whipped topping or fresh whipped cream.
Preparing the Perfect Chocolate Cookie Crust
The foundation of any great pie is its crust, and for our Butterfinger Pie With Peanut Butter, we’re going for a rich, sturdy, no-bake chocolate cookie crust that complements the creamy filling beautifully. This phase is straightforward but crucial for the overall success of the pie.
- Crush the Chocolate Sandwich Cookies: First, you’ll need to transform those delicious chocolate sandwich cookies into fine crumbs. My preferred method is using a food processor. Place the entire cookies, cream filling and all, into the food processor bowl and pulse until they resemble fine, even crumbs. You want them fine enough to pack together well, but still with a little texture – not quite a powder. If you don’t have a food processor, you can place the cookies in a large, heavy-duty zip-top bag, seal it, and crush them with a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy skillet. Just be sure to get them as uniformly fine as possible. Aim for about 2 ½ to 3 cups of crumbs.
- Melt the Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter. You can do this in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s fully liquid and clear. Be careful not to overheat it.
- Combine Crumbs and Butter: Pour the melted butter over the cookie crumbs in a medium bowl. Using a fork or your clean hands, mix thoroughly until all the crumbs are moistened. The mixture should resemble wet sand and hold together when you press a small amount between your fingers. This butter is what binds our crust together, ensuring it doesn’t fall apart when sliced.
- Press into Pie Dish: Transfer the moistened cookie crumb mixture into a standard 9-inch pie dish. Using the bottom of a flat-bottomed glass or your knuckles, firmly press the crumbs evenly over the bottom and up the sides of the dish. It’s important to press quite firmly to create a dense, stable crust. Pay particular attention to the edges and the seam where the bottom meets the sides, ensuring there are no thin spots. A well-compacted crust is key for a clean slice of your Butterfinger Pie With Peanut Butter.
- Chill the Crust: Once the crust is perfectly formed, place the pie dish in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the butter to solidify and bind the crumbs, resulting in a firm, ready-to-fill base that won’t crumble when you add the filling. You can even place it in the freezer for 15-20 minutes if you’re in a hurry.
Crafting the Creamy Peanut Butter Filling
Now, let’s move on to the star of the show – the luscious, creamy peanut butter filling that forms the heart of our Butterfinger Pie With Peanut Butter. This is where the magic happens, transforming simple ingredients into a smooth, dreamy delight that perfectly complements the crunchy Butterfinger bits.
- Whip the Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer (either a stand mixer with a paddle attachment or a hand-held mixer), beat the softened full-fat cream cheese on medium speed for 2-3 minutes. You want to whip it until it’s completely smooth, light, and fluffy, with no lumps whatsoever. This step is critical for achieving a velvety filling texture. If your cream cheese isn’t soft enough, you’ll end up with stubborn lumps, so patience here truly pays off.
- Add Peanut Butter and Vanilla: Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add the 1 cup of creamy peanut butter and the 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to the whipped cream cheese. Continue beating on medium speed, incorporating the peanut butter fully, until the mixture is uniform and smooth. This will take another 1-2 minutes. The mixture will be quite thick at this stage, and it will smell absolutely divine!
- Incorporate Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar to the peanut butter and cream cheese mixture, beating on low speed initially to prevent a cloud of sugar dust, then increasing to medium until it’s fully incorporated and the mixture is light and fluffy again. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the bowl periodically to ensure everything is well combined. The sugar not only sweetens but also helps to stabilize the filling.
- Gently Fold in Whipped Topping: Now for the airy lightness! Take your thawed whipped topping and, using a rubber spatula, gently fold it into the peanut butter mixture. Do this in two additions. Add about half of the whipped topping, and fold it in with a gentle motion, bringing the mixture from the bottom of the bowl up and over, until just combined. Then add the remaining whipped topping and continue to fold until no streaks of white remain. The key here is to be gentle to maintain the airiness of the whipped topping. Overmixing will deflate it, resulting in a denser filling. The goal is a light, airy, yet rich and creamy consistency for your Butterfinger Pie With Peanut Butter.
Incorporating the Butterfinger Crunch
The crunch is what truly defines this pie and gives it its name! Those signature Butterfinger candy bars bring a unique, flaky, and peanut-buttery texture that contrasts beautifully with our smooth filling. Preparing them correctly is an important step for the ultimate Butterfinger Pie With Peanut Butter experience.
- Prepare the Butterfinger Bars: This step is where you get to unleash some candy-crushing power! Unwrap all 8-10 regular-sized Butterfinger candy bars. You have a couple of options for crushing them:
- Food Processor Method: For a quick and relatively uniform crush, break the bars into smaller pieces and place them in a food processor. Pulse a few times until you have a mix of fine crumbs and small, recognizable chunks. Be careful not to over-process, as Butterfingers can turn into a paste if you go too far.
- Bag and Rolling Pin Method: If you prefer more distinct, varied chunks, place the unwrapped bars in a sturdy zip-top bag. Seal the bag, pressing out as much air as possible. Then, use a rolling pin, the flat side of a meat mallet, or even a heavy can to pound and crush the candy bars. Aim for a mix of different sizes – some finer crumbs to distribute flavor throughout, and some larger chunks for satisfying bites of crunch.
I personally prefer a mix of textures, so I usually go for the bag and rolling pin, ensuring there are plenty of noticeable, crispy pieces to really make this a spectacular Butterfinger Pie With Peanut Butter.
- Reserve Some for Garnish: Set aside about ½ to ¾ cup of the crushed Butterfinger candy for garnishing the top of the pie later. This ensures a beautiful presentation and gives a hint of the deliciousness within.
- Fold Butterfinger into Filling: Gently fold the remaining crushed Butterfinger candy bars into the prepared peanut butter filling. Use your rubber spatula and work with a light hand to evenly distribute the candy throughout the creamy mixture. You want every slice of your Butterfinger Pie With Peanut Butter to have a generous helping of that iconic crunch! Avoid overmixing, as you don’t want to completely pulverize the candy pieces or deflate the filling.
Assembling Your Decadent Butterfinger Pie With Peanut Butter
We’re now at the exciting stage of bringing all our wonderful components together! This is where your chilled crust meets the luscious filling and crunchy Butterfinger bits, transforming into the spectacular Butterfinger Pie With Peanut Butter you’ve been dreaming of.
- Spoon Filling into Crust: Retrieve your chilled chocolate cookie crust from the refrigerator. Carefully spoon the entire peanut butter and Butterfinger filling mixture into the prepared crust. Take your time to get it all in there, scraping the bowl clean to ensure no deliciousness is left behind.
- Smooth the Top: Using the back of your rubber spatula or an offset spatula, gently spread the filling evenly across the crust. Create a smooth, level surface, or for a more rustic look, you can swirl the top a bit. Make sure the filling goes right up to the edges of the crust for a visually appealing and well-proportioned slice. The even distribution of the filling is key to ensuring that every bite of this Butterfinger Pie With Peanut Butter is consistently delicious.
The Grand Finale: Chilling and Garnishing
The hardest part is waiting, but chilling is absolutely essential for this no-bake Butterfinger Pie With Peanut Butter. It allows the filling to firm up to a perfect sliceable consistency and lets all those incredible flavors meld together beautifully. And then, of course, the grand reveal with a flourish of garnish!
- Chill Thoroughly: Cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator to chill for a minimum of 4 hours. However, for the absolute best results and a perfectly firm, easy-to-slice pie, I highly recommend chilling it overnight (8 hours or more). This extended chilling time allows the cream cheese and whipped topping to fully set, creating a stable, luxurious texture that holds its shape beautifully when served. Trying to slice it too soon will result in a softer, messier pie, and we want every slice of this Butterfinger Pie With Peanut Butter to be a masterpiece!
- Garnish Before Serving: Just before you’re ready to serve your magnificent Butterfinger Pie With Peanut Butter, retrieve it from the refrigerator. Sprinkle the reserved crushed Butterfinger candy bars generously over the top of the pie. You can arrange them artfully around the edge, or simply cover the entire surface for a maximum Butterfinger impact.
- Optional Enhancements: For an extra touch of indulgence, you can drizzle a little melted chocolate or warm peanut butter sauce over the top. A few dollops of extra whipped topping or freshly whipped cream around the edge also adds to the visual appeal and creamy texture.
- Slice and Serve: To get clean slices, use a sharp, thin-bladed knife. For the neatest cuts, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it clean between each slice. This will help prevent the filling from sticking and dragging, ensuring each piece of your Butterfinger Pie With Peanut Butter looks as good as it tastes. Serve immediately and watch it disappear! This pie is best enjoyed cold, straight from the refrigerator.
- Storage: Any leftover pie should be stored in an airtight container or tightly covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. While it’s unlikely there will be any left, it’s good to know how to keep it fresh!
Conclusion:
So there you have it, friends! We’ve journeyed through the steps of creating what I truly believe is one of the most delightful and effortlessly decadent desserts you’ll ever make. This isn’t just another pie recipe; it’s an invitation to experience pure joy in every single bite. The masterful combination of creamy, rich peanut butter, crunchy, irresistible Butterfinger bits, and a luscious, no-bake filling makes this pie an absolute showstopper. It’s the kind of dessert that elicits gasps of delight and immediate requests for the recipe before the last slice has even vanished from the plate. I can confidently say that mastering this Butterfinger Pie With Peanut Butter will elevate your dessert game to exciting new heights, proving once and for all that incredible, memorable flavor doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag of effort or complexity. It’s truly a culinary revelation that combines beloved textures and tastes into one harmonious, unforgettable experience.
What makes this pie an absolute must-try for everyone, regardless of their baking skill level? For starters, the texture is simply divine. You get that incredibly satisfying, signature crunch from the Butterfinger pieces, which are perfectly complemented by the silky-smooth, melt-in-your-mouth peanut butter filling. It’s a symphony of textures that keeps every bite interesting, engaging, and utterly addictive. Then there’s the flavor profile itself – a beautifully balanced blend of sweet and savory notes, with the distinct, nostalgic, and utterly craveable taste of Butterfinger candy shining through with every mouthful. It’s rich, yes, but never overwhelmingly so, thanks to the careful ratios and the refreshing chill it acquires. Plus, let’s not forget the sheer convenience and genius of a no-bake dessert. Especially during warmer months when turning on the oven feels like a monumental task, or when your oven is already tied up with other dishes for a special meal, having a spectacular dessert that requires no baking whatsoever is nothing short of a culinary superpower. It chills beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead option for any gathering, big or small. Trust me, once you taste this magnificent creation, you’ll understand why it’s become such a beloved and frequently requested staple in my own dessert repertoire.
Now, let’s talk about how to truly make this pie shine when it’s time to serve. While it’s absolutely phenomenal and complete on its own, a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream can take it to an even more luxurious and ethereal level. For an extra touch of visual flair and deliciousness, you could even sprinkle a few more crushed Butterfinger pieces or a delicate drizzle of melted chocolate syrup over the top – it’s visually stunning and adds another layer of flavor! Imagine presenting this glorious beauty at your next family dinner, holiday gathering, or casual potluck; it’s guaranteed to be the undisputed star of the dessert table, drawing admiration and compliments from all. It pairs wonderfully with a robust cup of coffee, a soothing cup of tea, or a tall, cold glass of milk, making it perfect for an afternoon treat, a midnight snack, or a deeply satisfying end to any meal. Don’t hesitate to serve it slightly chilled straight from the fridge for a firm, clean slice and a refreshing burst of flavor, or let it sit out for just 10-15 minutes to achieve a slightly softer, creamier texture that truly melts on your tongue in a dreamy embrace.
And for those of you who love to experiment and put your own spin on recipes, this pie is wonderfully forgiving and incredibly open to creative variations! While the classic chocolate cookie crust is undeniably fantastic, you could certainly experiment with an Oreo cookie crust for an even deeper chocolatey twist, or perhaps a classic graham cracker crust if you prefer a slightly milder base that lets the filling truly sing. Want to amp up the peanut butter factor even more? Consider a thin, even layer of melted creamy peanut butter swirled onto the bottom of the crust before you add the filling – pure decadence! For a different candy experience, why not try substituting some of the Butterfinger with other crushed chocolate bars that offer a good crunch? Think about Snickers for a nougat and caramel dimension, or Heath bars for a rich toffee element; these can offer similar yet distinctly different flavor profiles that are equally delightful. If you’re hosting a smaller group or simply want to control portion sizes for easy serving, this versatile recipe can easily be adapted into charming individual mini pies using ramekins or muffin tins lined with small pastry circles. Just be sure to adjust the chilling time accordingly, as smaller portions will firm up faster. The possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to tailor this incredible dessert to your exact preferences, seasonal whims, or whatever delightful ingredients you happen to have on hand.
I genuinely encourage you, with all my dessert-loving heart, to roll up your sleeves – metaphorically speaking, of course, since there’s no strenuous baking involved! – and give this incredible recipe a try. You’re going to be so incredibly proud of the delicious results, and I promise you’ll find it surprisingly simple and straightforward to execute. Don’t be intimidated by its impressive appearance; if I can make it, anyone can! Once you’ve whipped up your own perfect pie, I would absolutely love, love, love to hear about your experience. Did you add any fun twists or secret ingredients? What did your friends and family think of this delightful creation? Please share your successes, your beautiful photos, and your delicious insights in the comments below or by tagging me on social media. Your feedback, your creativity, and your shared joy truly inspire me and our entire community of home bakers. Thank you so much for joining me on this sweet, sweet adventure. Happy baking, and most importantly, happy eating!
Butterfinger Pie With Peanut Butter
This irresistible Butterfinger Pie With Peanut Butter is a symphony of textures and flavors, blending rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and the crunch of Butterfinger candy bars in a decadent no-bake dessert. Surprisingly easy to make, it’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
-
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
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½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
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1 cup creamy peanut butter
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1 cup powdered sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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8 oz whipped topping, thawed (like Cool Whip)
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4 Butterfinger candy bars (2.1 oz each), crushed (plus extra for topping)
Instructions
-
Step 1
Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a medium bowl until thoroughly moistened. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a standard 9-inch pie dish. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. -
Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until completely smooth and fluffy (2-3 minutes). Scrape down the bowl, then add the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract. Beat until fully incorporated and smooth (1-2 minutes). -
Step 3
Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar to the peanut butter and cream cheese mixture, beating on low speed initially, then increasing to medium until fully incorporated and the mixture is light and fluffy again (2-3 minutes). Scrape down the bowl periodically. -
Step 4
Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the peanut butter mixture in two additions using a rubber spatula. Fold until no white streaks remain, being careful not to overmix to maintain airiness. -
Step 5
Unwrap and crush the Butterfinger candy bars. Set aside about ½ cup for garnish. Gently fold the remaining crushed Butterfinger candy into the prepared peanut butter filling until evenly distributed. -
Step 6
Spoon the entire filling mixture into the chilled crust. Gently spread the top evenly with a spatula. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for a minimum of 4 hours, or preferably overnight (8+ hours), for best results and firm slices. -
Step 7
Just before serving, retrieve the pie from the refrigerator. Sprinkle the reserved crushed Butterfinger candy bars generously over the top. For clean slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between each cut. Serve cold. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
Allergy Information
Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.