Decadent Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies You’ll Love

The delightful scent of freshly baked cookies wafts through my kitchen, instantly taking me back to my childhood. Today, I’m excited to share the recipe for my ultimate treat: Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies. These little morsels are a true celebration of flavor, combining soft, chewy dough with crunchy pieces of Butterfinger and luscious, gooey caramel pockets. Not only are they a perfect way to use up leftover pantry goodies, but they’re also a crowd-pleaser that can easily be adapted to fit gluten-free diets! Imagine serving these cookies at your next gathering or enjoying them with a steaming cup of coffee; they’re sure to spark joy with each bite. Ready to indulge your sweet tooth? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are these cookies a must-try?

Indulgent, these Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds! Adaptable, with options for gluten-free and various candy substitutions, this recipe invites creativity in the kitchen. Quick to make, you'll have warm cookies ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for spontaneous gatherings. Mouthwatering, the blend of creamy caramel and crunchy candy will satisfy your sweet cravings. Crowd-pleasing, these cookies are ideal for lunch boxes, dessert platters, or cozy weekends at home, making them a beloved addition to any occasion.

Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies Ingredients

• Dive into the sweet and crunchy goodness of these Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies with this essential ingredient list!

For the Cookie Base

• All-purpose flour – Gives the cookies structure and chewiness; swap with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
• Baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent, helping the cookies rise perfectly.
• Baking powder – Works with the baking soda to create that soft, fluffy texture you crave.
• Salt – Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients, making each bite even more delicious.
• Unsalted butter – Elevates richness and moisture; remember to soften it for a smooth blend.
• Brown sugar – Adds moisture and depth of flavor; coconut sugar is a great alternative!
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens and supports the cookie texture beautifully.
• Large eggs – Binds the dough together—make sure to use room temperature eggs for the best incorporation.
• Vanilla extract – Infuses richness and depth; opt for pure vanilla for optimal taste.

For the Candy Components

• Crushed Butterfinger candy bars – The star of the show, adding a delightful crunch and caramel flavor; for variety, try crushed Heath or Snickers.
• Caramel bits or chopped soft caramels – Introduce gooey sweetness and texture; regular soft caramel candies are a fine substitute.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional) – Gives extra richness if desired; consider white or butterscotch chips for a different twist.

For Finishing Touches

• Caramel sauce – Perfect for drizzling on top, enhancing sweetness and presentation—homemade or store-bought works!
• Crushed Butterfinger pieces (for garnish) – Adds an eye-catching texture and extra crunch on top.

These Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies ingredients will set you on the path to baking up a sweet, unforgettable treat!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure a perfectly baked cookie. While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper, which will prevent your Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies from sticking and assist in achieving a golden base.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. This mixture is essential for the structure and rise of your cookies. Ensure it's well combined, as this will help distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the dough.

Step 3: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together ¾ cup softened unsalted butter, ½ cup brown sugar, and ½ cup granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for the best texture, ensuring your Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies achieve that sought-after soft, chewy consistency.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Add in 2 large eggs, one at a time, allowing each to fully incorporate before adding the next. Next, mix in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. The mixture should appear smooth and creamy, enhancing the flavor of your cookie dough while binding the ingredients together beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could lead to dense cookies. You want a dough that remains thick and slightly sticky, indicating the Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies will be delightfully tender.

Step 6: Fold in the Treats
Gently fold in 1 cup of crushed Butterfinger candy bars, ½ cup of caramel bits, and ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips (if using) using a spatula. This step adds the crunch and gooey textures that make your cookies so irresistible. Make sure the mix-ins are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Scoop the Cookie Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Each mound should be heaping and full; this ensures that your Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies come out thick and chewy.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Pop the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The centers might look slightly undercooked, which is perfect as they will continue to cook on the baking sheet.

Step 9: Cooling Time
Once baked, remove the sheets from the oven and let them cool on the sheets for 5 minutes. This helps the cookies set and makes it easier to transfer them without breaking. After 5 minutes, gently move the cookies to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 10: Add the Finishing Touches
Drizzle your Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies with caramel sauce to enhance their sweetness, and sprinkle extra crushed Butterfinger pieces on top for added crunch and visual appeal. This finishing touch transforms your cookies into a dessert that’s just as delicious as it is beautiful.

What to Serve with Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies

Imagine the joyful ambiance of a gathering, with the scent of these delectable cookies filling the air while you sip on a delightful drink or savor a complementary dessert.

• Cold Glass of Milk: The classic pairing of cookies and milk enhances the sweet, buttery flavors, making each bite melt in your mouth.
• Rich Chocolate Ice Cream: Top a scoop of chocolate ice cream with crumbled cookies for a decadent dessert experience that is truly indulgent.
• Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Elevate the cookie experience by serving with additional caramel sauce on the side for those who love a sweet touch.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: The bright, juicy flavors of a fresh fruit salad provide a refreshing contrast to the cookies' rich sweetness, balancing the meal.
• Caramel Apple Cider: For a warm drink option, serve these cookies with caramel-infused apple cider, offering a cozy seasonal touch.
• Whipped Cream Topping: Serve cookies alongside a dollop of whipped cream, enhancing the sweetness and adding a light, airy texture to each bite.
• Creamy Hot Chocolate: Enjoy your cookies with a steaming cup of hot chocolate topped with marshmallows—a nostalgic pairing that delights both kids and adults.
• Nutty Coffee: Pair these cookies with a freshly brewed nut-flavored coffee or latte, which complements the caramel and chocolate notes perfectly.
• Toffee Cheesecake: For a dessert extravaganza, serve these cookies with slices of toffee cheesecake, creating a delightful interplay of flavors.

Make Ahead Options

These Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies are ideal for meal prep, saving you time on busy days! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just scoop the dough onto your baking sheets and cover tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out, maintaining that perfect chewy texture. Alternatively, for longer storage, freeze the dough balls for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and bake the frozen dough directly, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time for delicious, freshly baked cookies. This way, you’ll enjoy delectable Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies with minimal effort!

Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies Variations

Feel free to make these delicious cookies your own with a few simple twists!

• Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to enjoy the same scrumptious cookie without the gluten. Just ensure your baking powders are gluten-free too.

• Nutty Flavor: Add ½ cup of chopped peanuts or use peanut butter chips instead of chocolate chips for a delightful, nut-filled option. The added crunch brings an extra layer of satisfaction!

• Heath or Skor: Don't have Butterfingers? Substitute crushed Heath bars or Skor bars for a similar crunchy, sweet experience. Each bite will be uniquely delicious.

• Fruit Infusion: Toss in ½ cup of dried cherries or cranberries for a fruity twist. Their tartness balances the sweetness perfectly, making for a delightful surprise!

• Spicy Kick: For a little heat, add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dough. It creates an intriguing contrast with the sweetness—daring and delightful!

• Chocolate Lover: Replace semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for a luxurious chocolate touch that makes the cookie feel extra indulgent.

• Oatmeal Boost: Incorporate ½ cup of quick oats into the dough for a chewy texture. The oats add heartiness while complementing the candy flavors brilliantly.

Mix and match these ideas to create your own version of the beloved Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies. Whether you're hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, these variations will keep things exciting!

How to Store and Freeze Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.

Fridge: If you want to extend their freshness, store them in the fridge in a tightly sealed container for up to 1 week. Allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze individual cookies layered between parchment paper in an airtight container for up to 3 months. They can be baked straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: To bring back their original warmth and gooeyness, reheat cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. Enjoy your Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies fresh!

Expert Tips for Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies

• Dough Chilling: Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking results in thicker, chewier Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies that hold their shape better.

• Fresh Leaveners: Always check your baking soda and baking powder for freshness. Stale agents can result in flat cookies, so use a fresh batch for optimal lift.

• Avoid Crowding: Space cookies 2 inches apart on the baking sheet to ensure even baking and prevent them from merging together while baking.

• Temperature Check: If your cookies spread too much, check the temperature of the dough before baking; it should be cool to the touch.

• Freezing Dough: Don’t forget, the cookie dough can be frozen for up to 3 months! Simply scoop and freeze, then bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of Butterfinger candy bars should I use?
I recommend using standard-size Butterfinger bars for the best flavor and crunch. You’ll need about 4 of them, crushed, to add just the right amount of sweetness and texture to your cookies. If Butterfingers aren’t available, feel free to substitute with crushed Heath or Skor bars for a similar taste experience!

How should I store these cookies for freshness?
Store your Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To extend their freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying again!

Can I freeze the cookie dough, and how do I do it?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Here’s how: First, scoop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer the frozen dough balls to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you're ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time!

Are these cookies suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! You can easily adapt these Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies for gluten-free diets. Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend that contains xanthan gum. It’ll give the cookies the structure and chewiness you crave while keeping them safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

What if my cookies turn out flat?
If your Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies spread too much and turn out flat, check if your baking soda and baking powder are fresh. Also, it helps to chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking, which can prevent excess spreading. Lastly, ensure that your butter is softened, not melted, to achieve the right texture!