Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter with the granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Blend until everything is well mixed.
- In a second bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough is just combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped Butterfinger candy bars and caramel bits to evenly distribute them through the dough.
- Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, remembering to leave space between each one for spreading.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, watching for lightly golden edges.
- Once removed from the oven, immediately sprinkle sea salt over the warm cookies for that salty-sweet flair.
- Let the cookies cool for a few minutes on the baking sheets before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Best ways to enjoy it
These Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies are delicious on their own, but there are plenty of creative ways to serve them. Try pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Alternatively, enjoy them with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or serve alongside a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate. They also make for fantastic gifts or treats for school bake sales.
How to store & freeze
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’d like to extend their shelf life, these cookies also freeze beautifully. Just place them in a single layer in a zip-top bag, ensuring they’re separated by parchment paper to avoid sticking. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying, or pop one in the microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-baked taste!
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure your butter is soft enough to cream well with the sugars; this makes for a fluffier cookie texture.
- If your dough feels too sticky, a little extra flour can help. Just be careful not to add too much, or the cookies could turn out dense.
- To ensure even baking, rotate your baking sheets halfway through the baking time.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Change it up! You can swap the Butterfinger for Snickers, Milky Way, or any other candy bar you adore. For a festive touch, add some holiday-themed sprinkles on top. You can even modify the recipe by using gluten-free flour or reducing sugar for a lighter version without compromising on flavor.
FAQ
What’s the prep time for these cookies?
The total prep time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 10-12 minutes baking time. So, in no time, you’ll have fresh cookies ready!
Can I use a different type of candy?
Absolutely! While Butterfinger gives these cookies their signature taste, feel free to experiment with your favorite candy bars or even chocolate chips.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them in a zip-top bag.
These Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies are a delightful addition to any dessert table or a comforting sweet treat at home. Happy baking!
