Ultimate Crispy Chewy Butterfinger Cookies: A Sweet Twist with Butterscotch Morsels

There’s a certain magic that happens in the kitchen when inspiration strikes, even if it’s born out of an unexpected turn of events. Today, my culinary journey started with thoughts of Lady Bird Johnson and her famous lemon squares. I was genuinely excited to try her historical recipe, imagining the tangy, sweet delight. However, as fate would have it, a quick pantry check revealed only one lemon, and with a friend visiting, a trip to the grocery store was simply out of the question.

Sometimes, limitations spark the best creativity. Instead of dwelling on the missing lemons, my mind quickly pivoted to a different kind of sweet treat: cookies! And not just any cookies, but something with a unique crunch and a satisfying chew. That’s how I landed on a beloved classic that’s always a crowd-pleaser: Butterfinger Cookies. These aren’t just any ordinary cookies; they’re a delightful adventure in texture and flavor, especially with a secret ingredient I’ll share.

Choosing the Perfect Butterfinger Cookie Recipe: Shortening vs. Butter

Butterfinger cookies are a phenomenon across the internet, with countless variations claiming to be the best. When diving into the world of these delightful candy bar cookies, you’ll often encounter two primary schools of thought regarding fat content: those made with a combination of peanut butter and butter, and those that opt for shortening. Each approach yields a distinct texture and flavor profile, making the choice an important one for your desired outcome and the type of cookie you envision.

Many popular versions widely circulate online, often boasting high ratings for their rich, buttery flavor and consistently chewy texture, thanks to the inclusion of butter and, sometimes, an extra boost from peanut butter. While these versions undoubtedly create delicious cookies, I found myself drawn to a slightly less common, yet equally intriguing, alternative: the shortening-based recipe. This particular version, though perhaps less reviewed at the time, promised an interesting textural advantage that I was keen to explore.

My decision to go with shortening was two-fold, much like the unexpected turns of my baking day. Firstly, I genuinely appreciate the unique qualities that shortening imparts to baked goods. Unlike butter, which contains a percentage of water, shortening is 100% fat. This characteristic often leads to a tenderer crumb, a flakier texture in pastries, and a crispier edge in cookies, along with a dough that is less prone to excessive spreading during baking. I was anticipating a cookie with a delightful crispness on the outside and a tender chew on the inside, and shortening is a master at delivering just that.

Secondly, and quite practically, I was out of butter. As mentioned earlier, a quick store run was not an option with my guest enjoying their visit. This happy coincidence reinforced my choice, turning a potential obstacle into an opportunity to experiment with a method I’ve always admired for its textural benefits. Sometimes, the best recipes emerge from making do with what you have and embracing the creative solutions that arise!

The Irresistible Taste and Texture of Our Butterfinger Cookies

The moment these Butterfinger cookies emerged from the oven, the kitchen was filled with an aroma that promised pure indulgence. And they absolutely delivered! This particular batch turned out slightly flatter than some traditional cookies, a characteristic I actually came to appreciate. This increased surface area allowed for an even crisper edge, contrasting beautifully with a wonderfully soft and chewy interior. It’s a textural symphony that keeps you coming back for more, providing a delightful sensory experience with every bite.

The magic truly lies in the ingenious integration of the Butterfinger candy bar. As it bakes, the candy melts and caramelizes slightly, creating pockets of crunchy, peanut-buttery goodness throughout the cookie. The unique flavor profile of Butterfinger, with its distinct layered crispness and subtle peanut butter notes, translates beautifully into a baked treat, adding an unexpected and truly addictive dimension to a classic cookie. Every bite offers a delightful surprise, a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and that unmistakable Butterfinger crunch that sets these cookies apart.

But the journey didn’t end there! A last-minute inspiration led me to add a generous half-cup of butterscotch morsels to the dough. This turned out to be a stroke of pure genius. The creamy, rich sweetness of the butterscotch perfectly complements the peanut butter notes of the Butterfinger, adding another layer of complex flavor and a lovely, gooey texture when warm. While entirely optional, I wholeheartedly recommend this addition for an extra touch of decadence and a more nuanced flavor profile. If you prefer, these cookies are fantastic on their own, but the butterscotch morsels truly elevate them to another level of deliciousness, making them an unforgettable treat.

I’m always eager to hear about your baking adventures and the delicious creations that come out of your kitchen! If you decide to whip up a batch of these crispy, chewy delights, please do let me know how they turn out in the comments below. And for those who venture down the path of the peanut butter and butter versions of Butterfinger cookies, I’d be genuinely interested to hear your thoughts on their taste and texture. Sharing our baking experiences makes the process even more enjoyable and helps others discover new favorites!

Classic Butterfinger Cookies with a Butterscotch Surprise Recipe

This recipe is designed to yield cookies that are perfectly crispy at the edges and wonderfully chewy in the center, thanks to the thoughtful use of shortening and the unique addition of Butterfinger candy bars and butterscotch morsels. Get ready to bake a batch that will disappear quickly!

Ingredients:

• ⅓ cup Crisco shortening: (I used regular shortening, but a butter-flavored shortening would likely add an extra layer of richness and be equally delicious.) This is key for the desired tender, crispy texture.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar: Provides essential sweetness and contributes to the cookies’ golden-brown color and delightful crispness.
• 1 large egg: Acts as a crucial binder for the dough, adding structure and moisture to the cookies.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: A fundamental flavor enhancer that brings warmth and depth to the cookie’s taste profile.
• 1 ⅓ cups sifted all-purpose flour: (Ensure you sift the flour *before* measuring for optimal accuracy and to achieve a lighter, more tender crumb in your cookies.)
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: The primary leavening agent that helps the cookies rise slightly and contributes to their characteristic chewiness.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile, and cutting through the richness.
• 2 standard-sized Butterfinger candy bars: The undeniable star ingredient, introducing a unique crunch, a delightful peanut-buttery flavor, and a satisfying chew.
• ½ cup butterscotch morsels: (Optional, but highly recommended!) These add a complementary creamy sweetness and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs wonderfully with the Butterfinger.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets: Begin by preheating your oven to a precise 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for immediate and even baking. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This crucial step prevents sticking, promotes even baking, and makes for effortless cleanup.
2. Cream the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the shortening and granulated sugar together. Continue beating on medium-high speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and noticeably creamy, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes. This step is vital for incorporating air, contributing significantly to the cookies’ tender texture.
3. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the large egg until it is fully incorporated into the mixture. Follow with the vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed with a spatula to ensure all ingredients are evenly blended.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, thoroughly whisk together the sifted all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisking ensures these dry ingredients are evenly distributed, preventing any pockets of leavening or salt in the final cookie.
5. Gradually Add Dry to Wet: Slowly add the flour mixture to the shortening mixture, mixing on low speed until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as overworking the gluten in the flour can lead to tough, dense cookies. Mix only until no streaks of dry flour remain visible.
6. Prepare the Butterfingers: Unwrap the two Butterfinger candy bars. Place them on a cutting board and, using a large, sharp knife, chop them into varying sizes – you want a delightful mix of small chunks and slightly larger shards. Avoid crushing them into a fine powder, as the distinct pieces contribute significantly to the cookie’s unique texture and crunch. Aim for pieces roughly ¼ to ½ inch in size for the best results.
7. Fold in Candy and Morsels: Add the chopped Butterfinger pieces and the butterscotch morsels (if you’re using them) to the cookie dough. Gently fold them in with a spatula or wooden spoon until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
8. Scoop and Bake: Drop rounded teaspoonfuls of cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie to allow for proper spreading during baking. For the most consistent results and even heat distribution, it’s recommended to bake one sheet at a time.
9. Bake to Perfection: Bake for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are beautifully golden brown and the centers are just set. The exact baking time may vary slightly depending on the calibration of your oven and the size of your cookie scoops.
10. Cooling is Key: This step is absolutely crucial for Butterfinger cookies! Once out of the oven, let the cookies sit on the hot cookie sheet for about 3-5 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly without breaking. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. The Butterfinger can have a somewhat soft or “sticky” texture directly out of the oven, but as the cookies cool, the candy pieces firm up, resulting in that desired crispy-chewy perfection.

This recipe consistently yields approximately 18 medium-sized, incredibly satisfying cookies. Feel free to adjust the size of your scoops if you prefer larger or smaller cookies, just keep a careful eye on the baking time as it will need to be adjusted accordingly.

Tips for Achieving Cookie Perfection Every Time

Baking delicious cookies is an art and a science. Here are some pro tips to ensure your Butterfinger cookies turn out perfectly crisp and chewy:

• Do Not Overmix the Dough: This cannot be stressed enough! Overmixing the dough develops too much gluten, which can lead to tough, dense cookies rather than the desired tender texture. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined and no streaks of dry flour remain.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your egg, and any other dairy if you were using butter, is at room temperature. This helps it incorporate more smoothly and evenly into the creamed shortening and sugar, creating a more uniform and emulsified dough.
• Measure Accurately: Baking is a precise science! Use proper measuring techniques, especially for flour. Lightly spoon flour into your measuring cup and then level it off with a straight edge, or better yet, weigh it if you have a kitchen scale. Sifting before measuring is also crucial as specified in the recipe.
• Parchment Paper is Your Best Friend: Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats is a game-changer. It prevents sticking, makes cleanup an absolute breeze, and helps regulate the bottom browning of your cookies, ensuring they don’t get too dark.
• Rotate Baking Sheets for Evenness: If you’re baking multiple sheets of cookies at once (though baking one at a time is ideal for consistency), rotate them halfway through the baking process. This ensures even browning and consistent results across all your cookies, as oven temperatures can vary.
• Chill the Dough (Optional, but Recommended for Control): If your dough feels too soft or sticky, or if you live in a warm, humid climate, a 30-minute chill in the refrigerator can work wonders. This makes the dough easier to handle and can sometimes lead to slightly thicker cookies with less spread.

Creative Variations and Customizations for Your Butterfinger Cookies

While this recipe for Butterfinger and butterscotch cookies is a winner on its own, don’t hesitate to get creative in the kitchen! Cookie baking is all about personalizing your treats. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next batch and add your unique twist:

• Chocolate Lover’s Delight: For those who can’t get enough chocolate, swap out the butterscotch morsels entirely for semi-sweet, milk, or dark chocolate chips. The classic pairing of chocolate and peanut butter (from the Butterfinger) is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Elevated Nutty Crunch: Enhance the crunch and flavor by adding a ¼ cup of finely chopped peanuts, pecans, or walnuts to the dough. Toasting the nuts lightly before adding them can intensify their flavor even further.
• Mix-and-Match Candy Bar Fun: Experiment with other types of candy bars! Heath bar bits, chopped Snickers, or even M&Ms could offer exciting new flavor profiles and textures. Just be mindful of the sweetness levels and adjust your sugar if necessary.
• Warm Spiced Cookies: For a cozy touch, especially during the fall and winter months, consider adding a pinch of ground cinnamon, a tiny dash of nutmeg, or even a hint of ginger to your dry ingredients. These spices can add a wonderfully warm and inviting note.
• Decadent Glaze it Up: For an extra special and indulgent touch, drizzle a simple vanilla glaze (powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract) or a rich chocolate ganache over the completely cooled cookies. This adds both visual appeal and an extra layer of sweetness.

Serving and Storage Suggestions for Maximum Enjoyment

These Butterfinger cookies are absolutely divine whether enjoyed warm, straight from the cooling rack, or completely cooled. Here are some ideas for serving them and keeping them fresh so you can savor them longer:

• The Perfect Pairing: There’s nothing quite like a homemade cookie. Serve these crispy-chewy delights with a tall glass of cold milk, a rich cup of hot coffee, or a comforting mug of tea. For an indulgent dessert, place a warm cookie alongside a scoop of premium vanilla or chocolate ice cream.
• Thoughtful Gifting: These homemade Butterfinger cookies make a truly wonderful and personal gift. Package them beautifully in a decorative tin, a cellophane bag tied with a ribbon, or a small box to share with friends, family, neighbors, or as a thoughtful hostess gift.
• Short-Term Storage (Room Temperature): To maintain their optimal crispy-chewy texture, store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-5 days. If you find they are starting to lose their crispness, you can place a slice of fresh bread in the container to help absorb excess moisture (remember to replace the bread every day or two).
• Freezing Cookie Dough for Later: For ultimate convenience, you can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time, scoop it into individual balls, and then freeze them on a baking sheet until solid. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe zip-top bag. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls directly on a prepared baking sheet and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing Baked Cookies: Cooled, baked cookies can also be frozen for longer storage. Arrange them in a single layer in an airtight freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They will stay fresh for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them at room temperature for about an hour before serving.

Baking these Butterfinger cookies isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s about creating moments of joy and deliciousness in your home. The unique combination of a perfectly crispy exterior, a wonderfully chewy interior, and the unmistakable crunch of Butterfinger candy, all enhanced by the sweet and creamy notes of butterscotch, makes this recipe a true gem. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and prepare to bake a batch of cookies that are sure to become a new favorite in your household. Happy baking!