Name: Mouthwatering Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies You'll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Use margarine for dairy-free option.); 1 cup Light Brown Sugar (Can replace with dark brown sugar for deeper flavor.); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (Use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic alternative.); 2 large Eggs (Substituting with flaxseed meal can make them egg-free.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Use almond extract for a different nutty taste.); 2 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour (For gluten-free, substitute with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend.); 1 tsp Baking Soda; 1/2 tsp Salt (Do not omit; enhances sweetness.); 1 1/2 cups Crushed Butterfinger Bars (Can replace with other chocolate bars like Snickers or Twix.); 1 cup Caramel Bits (Substitute with homemade caramel for a richer taste.); 1/2 cup Chopped Peanuts (Use almonds, cashews, or omit for nut-free version.); 1/2 tsp Sea Salt Flakes (Enhances flavor with a touch of saltiness.)

The inviting aroma of freshly baked cookies wafts through the kitchen, bringing back memories of childhood treats and cozy afternoons. These Gooey Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies are a scrumptious solution for those moments when you crave a sweet indulgence without the fuss. What makes these cookies truly special is their delightful contrast of creamy caramel, crunchy Butterfinger bits, and the satisfying texture of chopped peanuts. Plus, they are incredibly customizable—whether you want a gluten-free version or need to cater to allergies, this recipe has you covered. With quick prep and a guarantee to impress family and friends alike, these cookies are destined to become your new favorite treat. So, are you ready to dive into a batch of these irresistible cookies?

Why Are These Cookies So Special?

Irresistible Flavor Combination: The blend of creamy caramel and crunchy Butterfinger bits creates a taste explosion that will have you coming back for more.

Customizable Options: Easily adapt the recipe for dietary needs—switch to gluten-free flour or substitute eggs for a vegan-friendly version without sacrificing flavor.

Quick and Easy: With simple steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time, perfect for those spontaneous dessert cravings.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether for a family gathering or a coffee date, these cookies are sure to impress all your guests, showcasing your baking skills.

Texture Paradise: Enjoy the contrasting textures of gooey caramel, soft cookie, and crunchy peanuts in each mouthful, making them a truly memorable treat.

Ready to experience this sweet indulgence? Check out our other delicious cookie options like Pumpkin Oat Cookies and Peppermint Kiss Cookies for more delightful baking adventures!

Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Base
• Unsalted Butter (1 cup) – Provides richness and moisture. Use margarine for dairy-free option.
• Light Brown Sugar (1 cup, packed) – Adds sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor. Can replace with dark brown sugar for deeper flavor.
• Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup) – Sweetens the cookies. Use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic alternative.
• Large Eggs (2) – Binds the ingredients and helps with leavening. Substituting with flaxseed meal (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) can make them egg-free.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the flavor profile. Use almond extract for a different nutty taste.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 1/2 cups) – Provides structure to the cookies. For gluten-free, substitute with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Baking Soda (1 tsp) – Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
• Salt (1/2 tsp) – Balances flavors. Do not omit; enhances sweetness.
For the Sweet Mix-ins
• Crushed Butterfinger Bars (1 1/2 cups) – Adds distinctive crunch and sweetness. Can replace with other chocolate bars like Snickers or Twix.
• Caramel Bits (1 cup) – Provides gooey texture and sweetness. Substitute with homemade caramel for a richer taste.
• Chopped Peanuts (1/2 cup) – Introduces crunch. Use almonds, cashews, or omit for nut-free version.
• Sea Salt Flakes (1/2 tsp for topping) – Enhances flavor with a touch of saltiness.

These Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies are a delightful treat for any cookie lover!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone mats. This step ensures that your Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies will have a smooth surface for baking and easy removal once they’re ready.

Step 2: Cream Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the softened unsalted butter, packed light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes. The texture should look creamy, signaling that your base is ready to incorporate the next ingredients.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Now, it’s time to add the large eggs to the mixture, mixing in one at a time for better blending. After both eggs are fully incorporated, add the vanilla extract and continue to mix until everything is well combined. You will notice a richer aroma filling your kitchen, hinting at the delicious Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies to come.

Step 4: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until they’re well blended. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed, just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should still be slightly lumpy, ensuring tender cookies.

Step 5: Add Custom Ingredients
Gently fold in the crushed Butterfinger bars, caramel bits, and chopped peanuts using a spatula. This will create a wonderful mix of textures and flavors in your dough. You should see a colorful mixture of delights that promises to create the perfect Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies.

Step 6: Portion Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each cookie about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Ensure your scoops are generous for that gooey center everyone loves. You’ll want each cookie to be a delightful mound in anticipation of its turn in the oven.

Step 7: Add Salt and Bake
Before sliding your cookies into the oven, sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt flakes on each mound of dough. Bake your cookies in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown while the centers remain soft and slightly underbaked for that perfect chewy texture.

Step 8: Cooling
Once baked, remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes. This step allows them to firm up slightly before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cool, those delicious Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies will be ready to enjoy!

Expert Tips for Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies

Mix Wet First: Ensure your butter and sugars are well-creamed before adding eggs and vanilla to achieve a smooth, fluffy texture.
Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour, mix gently to keep your Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies tender and not tough.
Right Baking Time: Pull cookies from the oven when edges are golden but centers are soft; this ensures a deliciously chewy bite.
Space Them Well: Give plenty of room (about 2 inches) between dough mounds on the baking sheet to allow for spreading during baking.
Cooling is Key: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to stabilize their shape.

What to Serve with Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies

A warm batch of cookies can brighten any gathering, making it perfect for sharing and savoring together.

Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing adds a creamy contrast to the gooey texture and sweetness of the cookies, enhancing each delightful bite. It’s an indulgent way to enjoy your treats!
Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee balances the rich flavors of the cookies while providing a cozy vibe. The bitterness of the brew complements the sweetness wonderfully, creating a harmonious experience.
Chocolate Milk: Sweet and rich, chocolate milk is a nostalgic beverage that enhances the cookie experience. Its creaminess pairs perfectly with the crunchy and gooey elements of the Butterfinger cookies.
Fresh Fruit Salad: The refreshing taste of seasonal fruits cuts through the sweetness, providing a balance that brightens up the dessert platter. Try adding citrus fruits for an extra zing!
Milkshake: Whipping up a creamy milkshake with chocolate or vanilla ice cream can transform this treat into a nostalgic dessert experience. The thick texture makes every sip a decadent indulgence.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: For an extra touch, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cookies. This elevates the sweetness and adds more indulgence—ideal for those who can’t resist that buttery flavor!
Cheesecake Bites: Opt for mini cheesecake bites alongside the cookies for a variety of textures. The creamy cheesecakes offer a delightful contrast to the chewy and crunchy cookies.
Tea: A soothing cup of herbal or chai tea provides a calming companion, offsetting the sugar with its warm spices and herbal notes. It’s a thoughtful pairing for an afternoon treat!

Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies Variations

Feel free to personalize these cookies with your own favorite twists and swaps for a delightful baking adventure.

Nut-Free: Omit the peanuts entirely and use sunflower seeds for a crunchy alternative.
Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil and choose dairy-free caramel bits for a vegan-friendly treat.
Extra Crunch: Mix in crunchy toffee bits for an added layer of flavor and texture.
Chocolate Explosion: Incorporate mini chocolate chips or chunks alongside the Butterfinger for a double chocolatey delight.
Fruity Twist: Add a handful of dried cranberries or raisins for a burst of fruity sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the buttery flavors.
Heat It Up: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper into the dough to add a subtle kick of heat that pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness.
Pumpkin Spice: Add 1 tsp of pumpkin spice to the batter for a warm, cozy flavor, perfect for fall baking.
Caramel Swirl: Instead of mixing in caramel bits, create a swirl effect by drizzling homemade caramel on top just before serving for a beautiful presentation.

These variations invite you to play around, making these Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies uniquely yours. If you’re in the mood for more delicious creativity, don’t forget to check out our other treats like Chocolate Chip Cookies or Thick Chewy Cookies for even more inspiration!

Make Ahead Options

These Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy days! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply scoop the dough onto the baking sheets, cover tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container, and pop them in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; just sprinkle the sea salt on top and bake as directed. For even longer storage, the prepared dough can be frozen for up to 3 months; just remember to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking. This way, you’ll have fresh, gooey Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies ready to indulge in with minimal fuss!

Storage Tips for Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their soft and gooey texture.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cookies to extend freshness, but this may alter their texture slightly. Consume within 2 weeks for best flavor.

Freezer: Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: For a gooey experience, reheat frozen cookies in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. Treat yourself to the delightful taste of Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies anytime!

Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of Butterfinger should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using fun-sized Butterfinger bars for easy crushing, but you can use any variety. Just ensure they’re fresh for optimal flavor and crunch in your cookies.

How should I store leftover cookies?
For peak softness, place your Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delightful for up to 1 week. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them for up to 2 weeks, or freeze them to maintain freshness for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your cookie dough, scoop it onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and place it in the freezer for about 1-2 hours until firm. Once frozen, transfer the mounds to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be kept for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply bake straight from the freezer—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time!

What if my cookies turned out too flat?
Very common! Flat cookies can be caused by butter that’s too warm or if the dough wasn’t chilled before baking. Ensure your butter is at room temperature, not melted, and try chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before scooping it onto the baking sheet. This will help them maintain their shape while baking.

Are these cookies safe for nut allergies?
Definitely! If you’re catering to nut allergies, you can simply omit the chopped peanuts from the recipe. The remaining ingredients still create a delicious and indulgent cookie. Always be cautious and ensure no cross-contamination occurs if you’re baking for someone with severe allergies!

Can I substitute any ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can easily make these Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies vegan by using flaxseed meal as an egg substitute (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) and dairy-free margarine instead of butter. For gluten-free options, utilize a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend. Customize to suit your needs while enjoying this delightful treat!