Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this *Butterfinger fudge*! It’s like a dreamy, creamy hug in dessert form, and every bite is a delightful explosion of chocolate and crunchy Butterfinger goodness. Seriously, the combination of smooth, rich chocolate with those little bits of Butterfinger bars really takes this fudge to a whole new level. I remember the first time I made this recipe; I was trying to impress a few friends, and boy, did it work! They couldn’t get enough of it! It’s now a staple in my home for every gathering, and I love how quick and easy it is to whip up. Trust me, once you try this fudge, you’ll understand why it’s become a favorite in my kitchen!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create this scrumptious Butterfinger fudge. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect blend of creaminess and crunch. Gather these goodies before you start:
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup crushed Butterfinger bars
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Make sure to use good quality chocolate chips—trust me, it makes all the difference in that rich flavor! And don’t skimp on the Butterfinger bars; the more crunchy bits, the better! Now, let’s get ready to make some fudge magic!
How to Prepare Butterfinger Fudge
Alright, let’s dive into the delightful process of making this *Butterfinger fudge*! It’s super straightforward, and I promise you’ll be snacking on these little squares of joy in no time. Follow along with me, and we’ll whip up this fudge together!
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
First things first, grab an 8×8 inch pan and line it with parchment paper. This makes it so much easier to lift the fudge out later! Just cut the paper to fit, letting it hang over the edges a bit. This little trick will save you from any sticky situations when it’s time to cut your fudge.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
Now, onto the chocolate! In a saucepan, melt the chocolate chips over low heat. Make sure to stir constantly—this is key to avoiding any chocolate lumps or, heaven forbid, burning. The chocolate should melt into a smooth, silky mixture that smells absolutely heavenly!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once your chocolate is all melted, it’s time to add the sweetened condensed milk. Stir it in until everything is combined and velvety smooth. Then, gently fold in the crushed Butterfinger bars and the vanilla extract. Oh, the crunchiness of those Butterfinger pieces mixed with the creamy chocolate is just divine!
Step 4: Pour and Spread
Next, pour that luscious mixture into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly so you get those delightful squares later on. You want a nice, flat surface—no peaks or valleys here!
Step 5: Refrigerate
Now comes the hard part—waiting! Pop the pan into the fridge and let it chill for about 2 hours. This is when the fudge really sets up and becomes that perfect, sliceable treat we’re all excited about.
Step 6: Cut and Serve
Once it’s set, take it out of the fridge and lift the fudge out using the parchment paper. Cut it into squares, and voilà! You’ve got your delicious Butterfinger fudge ready to serve. Just try not to munch on the whole batch at once—though I totally understand the temptation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make—prep time is just 10 minutes!
- Only requires a handful of simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.
- Irresistible combination of creamy chocolate and crunchy Butterfinger pieces.
- Perfect for satisfying that sweet tooth or impressing friends at gatherings.
- Great for customizing—swap in your favorite candy bars for a fun twist!
- Stores well in an airtight container, making it a fantastic make-ahead treat.
- Cut into squares for easy serving, perfect for parties or a cozy night in.
- Total crowd-pleaser—everyone will be asking for seconds!
Tips for Success
If you want to make the best *Butterfinger fudge* possible, here are some pro tips that I’ve learned along the way. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can take your fudge from good to absolutely irresistible!
- Quality Chocolate Chips: Don’t skimp on chocolate! Use high-quality chocolate chips for a richer, creamier fudge. Brands like Ghirardelli or Guittard really elevate the flavor.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Make sure to use sweetened condensed milk, not evaporated milk. The sweetness and creaminess are key components in achieving that luscious texture.
- Variations Galore: Feel free to experiment! Swap in your favorite candy bars like Reese’s or Snickers for a fun twist. You could even add some mini marshmallows or nuts for extra texture!
- Storage: Keep your fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it! Just make sure it’s well wrapped to avoid absorbing any fridge odors.
- Freezing: If you have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), you can freeze the fudge! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It’ll keep for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight when you’re ready for a sweet treat.
- Don’t Rush the Setting: Patience is key! Allow the fudge to set in the refrigerator for the full 2 hours. If you cut it too early, it might be too soft and crumbly.
- Make It Yours: Get creative with mix-ins like crushed pretzels for a salty crunch or swirl in some peanut butter for an extra layer of flavor. The sky’s the limit!
With these tips, you’ll be on your way to mastering the art of Butterfinger fudge in no time. Happy fudging!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve got this scrumptious *Butterfinger fudge* ready to enjoy, let’s talk about how to store it properly to keep it fresh and delicious! First, if you find yourself with any leftovers (though I doubt it!), make sure to store your fudge in an airtight container. This keeps it from drying out and helps preserve that creamy texture we all love.
You can keep the fudge at room temperature for about a week, but if you want to extend its life, popping it in the fridge is a great idea! Just be sure to wrap it well to prevent it from soaking up any unwanted flavors. Speaking of longevity, you can actually freeze this fudge to enjoy later. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then add another layer of aluminum foil to seal it up. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months!
When you’re ready to indulge in your frozen fudge, simply take it out of the freezer and let it thaw in the fridge overnight. No need to reheat it, as it’s best enjoyed chilled! But if you really want to warm it up a bit, you can pop a piece in the microwave for just a few seconds. Just be careful not to overdo it—nobody wants a melted mess! Enjoy every bite of that delicious fudge, no matter how you choose to store it!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Just a quick note before you dig into that delicious *Butterfinger fudge*! The nutritional information provided is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Factors like portion sizes and any substitutions can also change the values. While I strive to give you the best guidance, it’s always a good idea to check the labels of your ingredients for the most accurate information. So, enjoy your fudge, but keep in mind that nutrition can be a bit tricky to pin down precisely!
FAQ Section
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips?
Absolutely! While I love the richness of semi-sweet chocolate, using milk chocolate will give your *Butterfinger fudge* a sweeter flavor. Just keep in mind it might be a bit softer.
How do I know when my fudge is set?
After about 2 hours in the fridge, your fudge should be firm to the touch. If it feels solid and you can easily lift it out of the pan, it’s ready to cut!
Can I make the fudge ahead of time?
Yes, this fudge is perfect for making in advance! You can prepare it a few days ahead of your event and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What other candy bars can I use in this recipe?
Get creative! You can swap in any of your favorite candy bars like Reese’s, Snickers, or even Milky Way. Just make sure to crush them up nicely!
Why did my fudge turn out grainy?
Grainy fudge can happen if the chocolate chips were overheated or if they didn’t melt smoothly. Make sure to keep the heat low and stir continuously for a silky texture.
Can I add nuts to my Butterfinger fudge?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts can add a nice crunch. Just fold them in along with the crushed Butterfinger bars for a delightful twist.
How long can I store the fudge?
Your *Butterfinger fudge* will stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week. If you refrigerate it, it can last up to two weeks!
Can I freeze the fudge?
Yes! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to keep it fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy some more!
Butterfinger fudge: 5 bites of pure bliss to savor
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 pieces 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Rich and creamy Butterfinger fudge with a crunchy texture.
Ingredients
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup crushed Butterfinger bars
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper.
- In a saucepan, melt chocolate chips over low heat.
- Add sweetened condensed milk and stir until smooth.
- Mix in crushed Butterfinger bars and vanilla extract.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Refrigerate until set, about 2 hours.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Store fudge in an airtight container.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Use different candy bars for variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: butterfinger fudge, fudge recipe, dessert
