These Healthier Homemade Butterfingers offer a more nutritious option, with natural peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, and dark chocolate. They still deliver that classic Butterfingers taste and texture but with fewer processed ingredients and more wholesome goodness.
Are there corn flakes in Butterfingers?
Yes, we add cornflake as a crunchy element. Here’s a description of each ingredient used in the recipe for healthier homemade Butterfingers:
- Natural peanut butter: Natural peanut butter is made from only peanuts and possibly a small amount of salt. It does not contain added sugar or hydrogenated oils, making it a healthier option compared to regular peanut butter. The creamy and nutty flavor of natural peanut butter is the foundation of the filling for these homemade Butterfingers. Moreover, the healthy fats in peanut butter are called monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. These fats are associated with a lower risk of weight gain and obesity when consumed as part of a healthy diet.
- Honey or pure maple syrup: Honey or pure maple syrup serves as the natural sweetener in the recipe. Both options add a delightful sweetness to the peanut butter filling without the need for refined sugars.
- Pure vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the peanut butter filling, giving it a warm and aromatic note.
- Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and brings out the natural flavors of the other ingredients.
- Crushed cornflakes: Add crushed cornflakes to the peanut butter mixture to provide an extra crunch and texture to the filling.
- Dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips: Dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips are used for the chocolate coating. Choosing chocolate with higher cocoa content and less added sugar makes the treat healthier. Dark chocolate also provides antioxidants and has less sugar compared to milk chocolate.
These homemade treats are perfect for those who want to indulge in a more nutritious candy option without compromising on taste!
How to make Butterfingers at home?
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the natural peanut butter, honey or pure maple syrup, pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Microwave the mixture for 30 seconds to soften the peanut butter and make it easier to blend. Stir until everything is thoroughly mixed, creating a smooth and slightly thick peanut butter filling. Mix in the crushed cornflakes into the peanut butter mixture for added crunch and texture.
Line a square baking pan or a similar-sized container with parchment paper. Transfer the peanut butter mixture to the pan, using a spatula to create an even layer.
Refrigerate the pan for approximately 30 minutes until the peanut butter filling becomes firm.
In a separate microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Once the peanut butter filling is chilled and firm, cut it into small bars or bite-sized pieces. Using a fork or toothpick, dip each piece into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is entirely coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl. Place the chocolate-coated pieces on a parchment-lined tray or plate. To let the chocolate set, refrigerate the tray for about 15-30 minutes.
Your homemade healthier Butterfingers are now ready to be savored! Enjoy these delicious treats with the classic flavors and a more wholesome touch.
How to store homemade butterfingers?
To ensure the freshness and longevity of your homemade Butterfingers, it’s essential to store them properly. Here’s how to do it:
- Allow them to cool: Before storing the homemade Butterfingers, make sure they have cooled down to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation inside the storage container, which could make them soggy.
- Use an airtight container: Transfer the cooled Butterfingers into an airtight container. Choose a container that fits the size of the bars or pieces, leaving as little empty space as possible. This helps reduce exposure to air and moisture, keeping the candy fresh for a more extended period.
- Layer with parchment paper (optional): If you have multiple layers of Butterfingers, you can place a sheet of parchment paper between each layer. This prevents them from sticking together and maintains their shape and texture.
- Refrigerate or store at room temperature: The storage method depends on your preference and the temperature of your environment. If you live in a hot and humid climate or if the kitchen temperature is warmer, it’s best to store the Butterfingers in the refrigerator. Otherwise, if you are in a cooler and dry environment, you can store them at room temperature.
- Avoid odors: Make sure the container is free from strong odors or flavors that could be absorbed by the Butterfingers, affecting their taste.
- Best consumed within: Homemade Butterfingers are best consumed within 1-2 weeks for optimal taste and texture. Over time, the texture may become softer, but they will still be safe to eat beyond that period.
By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your homemade Butterfingers at their best and relish the delightful combination of peanut butter, sweetness, and chocolate anytime you crave a tasty treat!
If you like healthy desserts, check out these recipes:
- Chocolate-coated Strawberry Coconut balls
- Simple 3 ingredient Brownies
- Snickers Stuffed Dates
- Healthy Peanut Twix Bars
Healthier Homemade Butterfingers
Ingredients
For the peanut butter-flavored filling:
- ½ cup natural peanut butter (without added sugar or hydrogenated oils)
- 2 tbsp honey or pure maple syrup
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- ¼ cup crushed cornflakes
For the chocolate coating:
- ½ cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips (choose chocolate with higher cocoa content and less added sugar)
Instructions
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the natural peanut butter, honey or pure maple syrup, pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Microwave the mixture for 30 seconds to soften the peanut butter and make it easier to mix. Stir the mixture until everything is well combined and forms a smooth, slightly thick peanut butter filling.
- Mix in the crushed cornflakes into the peanut butter mixture.
- Line a square baking pan or a similar-sized container with parchment paper. Transfer the peanut butter mixture to the pan, pressing it down with a spatula to create an even layer. Place the pan in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or until the peanut butter mixture is firm.
- Melt the dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Cut the chilled peanut butter filling into small bars or bite-sized pieces. Using a fork or toothpick, dip each peanut butter piece into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl. Place the chocolate-coated pieces on a parchment-lined tray or plate. Let the chocolate set by placing the tray in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes. Your homemade healthier Butterfingers are now ready to be enjoyed!
Healthier Homemade Butterfingers