Butterfinger Rice Krispie Treats

Butterfinger Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful twist on the classic dessert that everyone loves. These treats combine the soft, gooey texture of traditional Rice Krispie bars with the crunchy, chocolatey goodness of Butterfinger candy bars. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or just a sweet snack, this simple recipe requires no baking and is sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 15 minutes of active time, making it a fast treat to whip up for any occasion.
• No Baking Required: You can create these delicious bars without turning on the oven, which is great for warm days or busy schedules.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Rich in peanut butter and chocolate flavors, these treats are sure to be a hit at gatherings or as an after-school snack.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or swap out the Butterfingers for another candy bar to suit your taste.
• Perfectly Chewy: The combination of marshmallows and peanut butter provides the ideal chewy texture that makes Rice Krispie treats so irresistible.

Tools and Preparation

Creating Butterfinger Rice Krispie Treats is simple when you have the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious bars.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick pot
• Rubber spatula
• 9 X 13-inch baking dish
• Cooking spray
• Plastic bag
• Rolling pin or mallet

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick pot: Ensures easy melting of butter and marshmallows without sticking.
• Rubber spatula: Helps to mix ingredients thoroughly and spread them evenly in the baking dish.
• Baking dish: The right size ensures your treats have the perfect thickness for cutting into bars.

Ingredients

To make Butterfinger Rice Krispie Treats, gather the following ingredients:

For the Base

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 10.5 ounces mini vegan marshmallows
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal

For the Candy Mix-In

• 5.7 ounces Butterfinger candy bars (3 1.9 oz candy bars or 9 Fun Size)

How to Make Butterfinger Rice Krispie Treats

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Spray a 9 X 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to ensure your treats come out easily once set.

Step 2: Crush the Butterfingers

Place the Butterfinger candy bars in a plastic bag. Use a rolling pin or mallet to crush them into pieces. Aim for a mix of small bits and larger chunks for added texture in your treats.

Step 3: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows

In a large non-stick pot over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add in the mini vegan marshmallows. Stir continuously until they are completely melted and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Peanut Butter

Remove the pot from heat. Add creamy peanut butter into the melted mixture and stir until fully combined, ensuring there are no lumps.

Step 5: Add Crushed Butterfingers

Gently fold in the crushed Butterfingers until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 6: Incorporate Rice Krispies

Add six cups of Rice Krispies cereal into the pot. Mix thoroughly until all cereal is coated with the buttery, marshmallow mixture.

Step 7: Transfer Mixture to Baking Dish

Pour the contents into your prepared baking dish. Use a greased rubber spatula to spread it evenly across the dish.

Step 8: Let Cool Before Cutting

Allow your Butterfinger Rice Krispie Treats to cool completely at room temperature for about an hour before cutting them into squares. Enjoy!

How to Serve Butterfinger Rice Krispie Treats

Butterfinger Rice Krispie Treats make a delightful dessert or snack that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your treat experience.

For a Classic Touch

• With Milk: Pair your treats with a glass of cold milk for a nostalgic feel.
• On a Plate: Serve them on a decorative plate for an inviting presentation at gatherings.

For the Sweet Tooth

• Drizzled with Chocolate: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the bars for an extra indulgent touch.
• Topped with Nuts: Add chopped nuts on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.

For Parties

• In Cupcake Liners: Cut the treats into squares and place them in colorful cupcake liners for easy serving at parties.
• As Party Favors: Wrap individual pieces in cellophane bags to give as sweet party favors.

How to Perfect Butterfinger Rice Krispie Treats

Achieving the perfect Butterfinger Rice Krispie Treats is all about technique and timing. Here are some tips to ensure your treats turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your marshmallows are fresh as they contribute to the gooey texture.
• Don’t Overheat the Mixture: Melt butter and marshmallows slowly to avoid burning, which can alter the flavor.
• Mix Quickly: Once you add Rice Krispies, mix quickly but gently to avoid crushing the cereal.
• Grease Your Hands: Lightly greasing your hands helps when pressing down the mixture into the pan without sticking.
• Allow Adequate Cooling Time: Letting the bars cool completely helps them set properly, making them easier to cut.

Best Side Dishes for Butterfinger Rice Krispie Treats

Pairing your Butterfinger Rice Krispie Treats with complementary side dishes can enhance your snacking experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing balance to the sweetness.
2. Trail Mix: A crunchy trail mix provides texture and can be customized with nuts and dried fruits.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy contrast that pairs well with treats.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses balances sweetness while offering savory notes.
5. Veggie Sticks with Hummus: Crisp veggies served with hummus provide a healthy, crunchy side option.
6. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: These add an elegant touch of sweetness that complements the treats perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Butterfinger Rice Krispie Treats, avoiding common pitfalls can ensure your treats turn out perfectly every time.

• Overheating the Marshmallows: If you cook the marshmallows too long, they can become too hard. Always melt them slowly over medium heat and stir constantly until just melted.
• Not Greasing the Pan: Failing to grease your baking dish can lead to sticky treats that are hard to remove. Use cooking spray or lightly butter the dish before pouring in the mixture.
• Using Hot Ingredients: Adding Rice Krispies while the mixture is still hot may cause them to become soggy. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before incorporating the cereal for a better texture.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Cutting into the bars too soon can make them fall apart. Let your Butterfinger Rice Krispie Treats cool completely for about an hour for perfect slicing.
• Inconsistent Mixing: Not mixing well enough can leave pockets of dry cereal or unmixed ingredients. Make sure everything is evenly distributed for a consistent flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Butterfinger Rice Krispie Treats

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Butterfinger Rice Krispie Treats

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm for 5-10 minutes wrapped in foil.
• Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds on low power to soften without melting.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a non-stick pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Butterfinger Rice Krispie Treats?

Butterfinger Rice Krispie Treats are no-bake dessert bars made with crispy rice cereal, melted marshmallows, creamy peanut butter, and crushed Butterfinger candy bars for added flavor.

Can I make these treats vegan?

Yes! Use vegan marshmallows and ensure that your Butterfingers do not contain any animal-derived ingredients.

How do I customize my Butterfinger Rice Krispie Treats?

You can add other candies like M&M’s or nuts, or substitute different chocolate bars for a unique twist.

How long do these treats last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they will last up to 5 days at room temperature or 3 months in the freezer.

Can I use different cereals instead of Rice Krispies?

Absolutely! You can experiment with other cereals like Cocoa Pebbles or Cheerios for different flavors and textures.

Final Thoughts

Butterfinger Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful blend of crunchy and chewy textures with a rich chocolate-peanut butter flavor. They’re perfect as a snack or dessert! Feel free to customize with your favorite candies or add-ins for a personal touch. Try this easy recipe today and enjoy the delicious results!