I’ve always had a sweet spot for cookies that combine nostalgic candy flavors with classic cookie comfort, and these Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies hit all the right notes.
The crispy edges give way to soft centers while crushed Butterfinger pieces and caramel bits create this magical texture that’s both crunchy and chewy.
Can you imagine biting into a warm cookie where the caramel is still slightly gooey and the candy bits provide that distinctive peanut buttery crunch?
Trust me, you’ll want to know how simple these are to make.
Why You’ll Love these Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies
While some cookie recipes might seem ordinary, these Butterfinger Caramel Crunch cookies stand in a league of their own.
I’m obsessed with how the candy bar pieces create pockets of chocolatey, peanut butter crunch that perfectly complement the gooey caramel bits.
What really makes these cookies special? It’s the texture contrast – crispy edges with soft centers that melt in your mouth.
The familiar Butterfinger flavor gets transformed into something even better when baked.
Trust me, your friends will be begging for the recipe.
Aren’t the best treats always the ones that combine nostalgic candy flavors with classic cookie comfort?
What Ingredients are in Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies?
To make these irresistible Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies, you’ll need a combination of pantry staples and two special ingredients that really make these cookies shine.
- 2¼ cups flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup butter, softened
- ¾ cup sugar
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 1½ cups crushed Butterfinger bars
- ½ cup caramel bits
When shopping for these ingredients, make sure your Butterfinger bars are fresh (not stale) for the best crunch, and if you can’t find caramel bits, you can chop up soft caramel candies as a perfect substitute—just make sure they’re not too big or they’ll create giant melty pockets in your cookies (which, honestly, mightn’t be such a bad thing).
How to Make these Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies
Step 1
Set your oven to 375°F and verify your baking sheets are clean and ready.
I always like to line mine with parchment paper for easier cleanup, though this isn’t strictly required for the recipe.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients Together
In a medium bowl, combine 2¼ cups flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt.
Whisking these together guarantees your leavening agent and salt are evenly distributed throughout your cookies.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat 1 cup softened butter with ¾ cup sugar and ¾ cup brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
This usually takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer, and is worth the time—it’s the foundation of your cookie texture. Using a premium stand mixer will make this process effortless and ensure perfectly creamed butter and sugar every time.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Mix in 2 eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and mix until just combined.
Don’t overmix at this stage or you’ll incorporate too much air.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually stir the flour mixture into the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. The dough will start to look thick and a bit sticky—perfect for holding all those candy pieces.
Step 6: Fold in the Star Ingredients
Gently fold in 1½ cups of crushed Butterfinger pieces and ½ cup caramel bits until evenly distributed.
Want to know a secret? Breaking up the Butterfingers in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin gives you the perfect crushed pieces while being oddly satisfying.
Step 7: Scoop the Cookie Dough
Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
They’ll spread a bit during baking, so give them room to grow.
Step 8: Bake Until Golden
Bake for 9-11 minutes, until the edges are golden brown but the centers still look slightly underdone.
What to Serve with Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies
These indulgent cookies are perfect on their own, but why not create a complete dessert experience? A cold glass of milk is the classic companion—whole milk brings richness, while almond milk offers a lighter option.
For coffee lovers, a smooth latte balances the sweetness beautifully.
Want something extra special? Try serving these cookies warm with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, letting it melt slightly into the caramel bits.
For a party setting, arrange them on a dessert board with fresh berries and chocolate dipping sauce.
And don’t forget, these cookies make a delightful afternoon pick-me-up alongside a cup of hot tea when that 3pm energy slump hits.
Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies Substitutions and Variations
Out of Butterfingers? Try Snickers, Heath bars, or even chocolate-covered toffee bits for that crunch factor.
Make it gluten-free by swapping regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend and double-checking your candy ingredients.
For dairy-free options, use plant-based butter sticks and dairy-free caramel bits (or omit and add extra crushed candy).
Cut the sugar to ½ cup each of white and brown sugar for a slightly less sweet treat that still satisfies.
Spice things up with ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of sea salt sprinkled on top before baking.
Add ⅓ cup mini chocolate chips or white chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
Fall version? Mix in ¼ cup chopped pecans and a dash of pumpkin pie spice.
Drizzle cooled cookies with melted chocolate for a bakery-style finishing touch.
Leftovers and Storage for these Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies
These cookies are at their absolute best when fresh, but proper storage keeps them delicious for days.
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
For longer storage, these treats freeze beautifully for up to 3 months.
Just place in a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. Thaw at room temperature for about an hour before enjoying.
To refresh slightly stale cookies, pop them in the microwave for 10 seconds—this reactivates those gooey caramel bits.
For the ultimate treat, sandwich slightly warm cookies around a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Pro tip: Add a slice of bread to your cookie container to keep them soft and prevent them from drying out.
Final Thoughts
These Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Cookies strike the ideal balance between comforting homemade goodness and indulgent flavor.
The combination of crushed candy bars and caramel bits creates a texture and taste that’s simply irresistible. They’re perfect for holiday cookie exchanges, after-school snacks, or whenever you need to brighten someone’s day with something sweet.
Make a batch on Sunday afternoon, and you’ll have delicious treats all week long.
There’s something magical about the way these cookies bring people together around the kitchen table, creating moments as warm and satisfying as the cookies themselves.
