Description
This no-bake Butterfinger Pie is a delightful dessert that combines the creamy texture of peanut butter and cream cheese with the crunchy, distinctive flavor of Butterfinger candy bars. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring no baking, and is perfect for potlucks, parties, or any occasion where you need a quick and crowd-pleasing dessert. The combination of a graham cracker crust, a smooth peanut butter filling, and a generous topping of Butterfinger pieces creates a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave everyone wanting more.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
- 10.2 ounces bag of fun-size Butterfingers, unwrapped and chopped
- 12 ounces whipped topping, divided
- 1 pre-made graham cracker pie crust
Preparation:
Step 1: In a large bowl, using an electric or hand mixer, beat together the softened cream cheese and peanut butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Ensure there are no lumps of cream cheese remaining for the best texture.
Step 2: Gently fold in half of the whipped topping into the peanut butter mixture. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the mixture light and airy. Fold until just combined, ensuring no streaks of whipped topping remain.
Step 3: Stir in half of the chopped Butterfingers into the peanut butter mixture. Distribute the candy pieces evenly throughout the filling, adding that signature Butterfinger crunch and flavor.
Step 4: Pour the mixture into your prepared graham cracker pie crust. Use a spatula or frosting knife to smooth out the top, creating an even surface for the topping.
Step 5: Spread the leftover whipped topping evenly across the top of the pie filling. This layer adds a light and creamy contrast to the rich peanut butter filling.
Step 6: Sprinkle the remaining chopped Butterfingers generously over the top of the whipped topping. This provides a visually appealing garnish and an extra burst of Butterfinger flavor.
Step 7: Refrigerate the pie for at least 2-4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to firm up completely. This ensures that the pie slices cleanly and holds its shape.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Butterfinger Pie is a winner for several reasons:
- No-Bake Convenience: It requires no oven, making it perfect for hot days or when you need a quick dessert solution.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of peanut butter and Butterfingers is a classic that appeals to both kids and adults.
- Easy to Make: The recipe is simple and straightforward, even beginner bakers can achieve great results.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this pie a day in advance, making it ideal for entertaining.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the amount of Butterfingers or add other toppings to suit your preferences.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chilled, straight from the refrigerator.
- Garnish with additional chopped Butterfingers or a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of extra whipped cream for an even more decadent treat.
- Serve with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee to complement the flavors.
Tips:
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature for a smooth and lump-free filling.
- Use a pre-made graham cracker crust to save time, or make your own for a homemade touch.
- Don’t overmix the whipped topping into the peanut butter mixture to keep the filling light and airy.
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 2-4 hours, or overnight, to allow it to set properly.
- For a richer flavor, use a natural-style peanut butter with no added sugar or oils.
- Get creative with the toppings! Consider adding chocolate shavings, caramel drizzle, or a sprinkle of sea salt.
Preparation Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
0 minutes (no baking required)
Total Time:
2 hours 20 minutes (includes refrigeration time)
Nutritional Information:
(Note: The following values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 450-550 per slice
- Protein: 8-10 grams per slice
- Sodium: 250-350 mg per slice
Conclusion
This Butterfinger Pie is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that’s sure to become a favorite. Its creamy, crunchy, and peanut buttery goodness makes it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving something sweet, this no-bake pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures in every bite!
Questions and Answers about this recipe
Q1: Can I use a different type of crust?
A: Yes, you can substitute the graham cracker crust with an Oreo cookie crust, a chocolate crust, or even a homemade shortbread crust for a different flavor profile.
Q2: Can I make this pie ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! In fact, it’s recommended to make this pie at least 2-4 hours in advance, or even the day before, to allow it to set properly in the refrigerator.
Q3: Can I freeze this pie?
A: While you can freeze this pie, the texture of the whipped topping may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days of making it.
Q4: Can I use a different candy bar instead of Butterfingers?
A: Yes, you can experiment with other candy bars like Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Snickers, or Heath bars for a different twist on the recipe.
Q5: Can I reduce the amount of sugar in this recipe?
A: Since the candy bar and whipped topping are both high in sugar, it’s difficult to significantly reduce the sugar content without affecting the taste and texture. You can try using a sugar-free whipped topping, but it may alter the overall flavor.
