Imagine biting into a soft, buttery cookie with a surprise gooey caramel center and the crunch of Butterfinger candy sprinkled throughout. These Caramel Butterfinger Snow Cookies combine sweetness, texture, and holiday charm in every bite. Covered in powdered sugar like freshly fallen snow, they’re the perfect addition to your holiday dessert table or any time you crave a decadent treat.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is easy to follow, even if you’re new to baking. Let’s dive into the magic of creating these irresistible cookies!
Why You’ll Love Caramel Butterfinger Snow Cookies
- Unique Flavor: The combination of creamy caramel and the signature crunch of Butterfinger candy makes these cookies stand out.
- Holiday-Ready: Their snowy powdered sugar coating makes them perfect for festive occasions.
- Easy to Make: With minimal steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly and quick to prepare.
- Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether for a party, a gift, or a cozy family dessert, these cookies are guaranteed to impress.
- Customizable: You can adapt the recipe to fit dietary preferences like gluten-free or vegan options.
Ingredients for Caramel Butterfinger Snow Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to make these decadent cookies:
Ingredient | Quantity |
Butter (unsalted, softened) | 1 cup |
Powdered sugar | 1 cup (plus extra for dusting) |
Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons |
All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
Salt | 1 teaspoon |
Butterfinger candy bars (crushed) | 1 cup |
Soft caramel candies (unwrapped) | 20 |
Optional Substitutions:
- For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
- Replace Butterfingers with chopped toffee or peanut brittle for a similar crunch.
- Use dairy-free caramel and plant-based butter for a vegan-friendly version.
How to Make Caramel Butterfinger Snow Cookies – Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This step helps create the soft texture of the cookies.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix well until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.
Step 4: Add the Butterfinger Crunch
- Gently fold the crushed Butterfinger candy bars into the dough.
- Ensure the Butterfinger pieces are evenly distributed throughout the dough for maximum flavor in every bite.
Step 5: Wrap the Caramel
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Flatten it slightly in your palm.
- Place one soft caramel candy in the center of the dough.
- Carefully wrap the dough around the caramel, ensuring it is completely sealed and forms a smooth ball. Repeat for all cookies.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
- Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
Step 7: Cool and Dust
- Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, generously dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a snow-like finish.
Tips for Perfect Caramel Butterfinger Snow Cookies
1. Use Soft Caramel Candies
Soft caramels are easier to wrap and melt perfectly inside the cookie during baking. Avoid hard or overly firm caramels.
2. Keep the Dough Cool
If the dough becomes too soft while shaping, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes to make handling easier.
3. Crush Butterfingers Properly
For the best texture, use a food processor or place the candy bars in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
4. Seal the Dough Well
Ensure the dough fully encloses the caramel to prevent it from leaking out during baking.
5. Dust While Warm
For even powdered sugar coverage, dust the cookies while they’re slightly warm. Dust again before serving if needed.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | ~160 |
Carbohydrates | 20g |
Protein | 2g |
Fat | 8g |
Saturated Fat | 5g |
Sugar | 12g |
Fiber | 1g |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on specific ingredients used.
Why Caramel Butterfinger Snow Cookies Are Perfect for Any Occasion
- Holiday Baking: Their festive powdered sugar coating makes them a beautiful addition to any holiday cookie platter.
- Gifting: Package them in a decorative tin or box for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Versatile Treat: These cookies are perfect for dessert, a sweet snack, or pairing with coffee or hot cocoa.
- Customizable Flavors: You can switch up the fillings and toppings to create your own unique variation.
- Fun for Kids: Let kids help wrap the dough around the caramels or dust the finished cookies with powdered sugar.
FAQs About Caramel Butterfinger Snow Cookies
1. Can I Make These Cookies Ahead of Time?
Yes! These cookies store well. You can make them up to 2 days in advance and keep them in an airtight container at room temperature.
2. How Do I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months.
3. Can I Freeze the Dough?
Absolutely! Wrap the dough balls (with the caramel inside) tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time.
4. Can I Use a Different Candy?
Yes, you can substitute the Butterfingers with chopped toffee, peanut brittle, or even mini chocolate chips for variety.
5. How Do I Make Gluten-Free Cookies?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour or almond flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour. Ensure other ingredients, like the candy, are also gluten-free.
6. How Can I Prevent the Caramel from Leaking?
Make sure the dough completely covers the caramel, leaving no gaps. Chill the dough briefly if it’s too soft to handle.
Your Turn to Bake!
Now that you know how to make these irresistible Caramel Butterfinger Snow Cookies, it’s time to bring the recipe to life in your kitchen. Whether for the holidays or a cozy weekend treat, these cookies are bound to be a hit. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the delicious aroma of caramel and Butterfinger wafting through your home.
PrintCaramel Butterfinger Snow Cookies – Easy Dessert Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 20 cookies
Description
These Caramel Butterfinger Snow Cookies are the ultimate holiday treat, combining buttery cookie dough, gooey caramel centers, and the signature crunch of Butterfinger candy. Topped with a powdered sugar dusting, they’re festive, fun, and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re baking for family, gifting friends, or simply indulging, these cookies are sure to bring joy with every bite!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup crushed Butterfinger candy bars
- 20 soft caramel candies, unwrapped
Optional Substitutions
- Swap Butterfingers for toffee pieces or peanut brittle.
- Use almond flour or gluten-free baking flour for a gluten-free version.
Dairy-free caramel and plant-based butter can be used for vegan cookies
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated. - Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. - Fold in the Butterfinger Candy
Gently fold in the crushed Butterfinger candy bars, ensuring the pieces are evenly distributed throughout the dough. - Shape the Cookies
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Flatten slightly in your palm, place one caramel candy in the center, and wrap the dough around the caramel to form a sealed ball. Repeat for all cookies. - Bake the Cookies
Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. - Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Generously dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar for a snowy finish.
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing Dough: Unbaked dough balls can be frozen and baked directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the baking time.
- Customization: Try using other candy like Snickers or chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American