Ingredients Overview
Essential Ingredients for Butterfinger Pie Recipe
For a dairy-free whipped topping alternative, check out So Delicious CocoWhip — a plant-based favorite among vegan dessert lovers.
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1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
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Forms the rich, creamy base of the pie. You can use reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter option.
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1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
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Adds fluffiness and stability to the filling. Dairy-free versions are available for vegan adaptations.
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1 cup powdered sugar
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Sweetens the pie without grittiness. Easily dissolves into the cream cheese for a smooth texture.
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1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
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Offers nutty depth and richness. Opt for natural peanut butter if you want a less sweet version.
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3 Butterfinger candy bars, crushed
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The star ingredient. These give the pie its unique crunch and signature toffee-peanut flavor.
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1 pre-made graham cracker crust
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Saves time and provides a buttery, crumbly base. Gluten-free versions are readily available.
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1/2 tsp vanilla extract
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Rounds out the flavors with subtle sweetness and aroma.
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Each ingredient in this Butterfinger Pie recipe plays a role in delivering a layered experience of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and salty—ideal for dessert lovers across the board.
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Butterfinger Pie Recipe
Whether you’re catering to food sensitivities or simply want to mix things up, here are some great substitutions that keep the delicious essence of the Butterfinger Pie intact:
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Gluten-Free Version
Swap out the pre-made graham cracker crust for a gluten-free variety or make your own using gluten-free graham crackers and melted butter. -
Dairy-Free or Vegan Option
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Use plant-based cream cheese and whipped toppings made from coconut milk or almond milk.
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Replace Butterfinger bars with dairy-free, gluten-free peanut butter candy bars such as “Thrive” or homemade versions.
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Low-Sugar Adaptation
Use a sugar-free powdered sweetener like Swerve, and opt for sugar-free peanut butter. Look for reduced-sugar whipped toppings and low-sugar or keto candy bars to complete the dessert. -
Nut-Free Alternative
Replace the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and use a candy bar substitute that doesn’t include nuts, such as a crushed cookie topping.
These substitutions ensure that your Butterfinger Pie recipe can suit almost any dietary requirement without sacrificing flavor or texture.
How to Prepare the Perfect Butterfinger Pie Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
This Butterfinger Pie recipe couldn’t be easier to put together. Follow this simple step-by-step guide to create a dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
First Step: Soften the Cream Cheese
Remove the cream cheese from the fridge at least 30 minutes before you begin. This ensures it blends smoothly without lumps, forming the ideal base for your creamy filling.
Second Step: Blend Cream Cheese and Powdered Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Mix until the texture is smooth and silky, with no visible lumps of sugar.
Third Step: Incorporate Peanut Butter and Vanilla
Add the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Beat again until all ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is thick, creamy, and homogeneous.
Fourth Step: Fold in the Whipped Topping
Using a spatula, gently fold in the whipped topping. This step is key for achieving a light and airy texture. Avoid overmixing—just enough to fully incorporate the whipped topping without deflating it.
Fifth Step: Add Crushed Butterfingers
Crush 2 of the 3 Butterfinger bars using a rolling pin or food processor. Stir these pieces into the pie filling, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the mix.
Sixth Step: Transfer to Crust
Spoon the finished filling into your pre-made graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly and smooth the top for a neat presentation.
Seventh Step: Add Final Topping
Crush the remaining Butterfinger bar and sprinkle the pieces generously on top of the pie. This adds a beautiful crunch and a pop of candy bar flavor right on top.
Eighth Step: Chill to Set
Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or overnight. This helps the flavors meld and ensures the filling sets to a firm, sliceable consistency.
Final Step: Slice and Serve
Once chilled, slice the pie using a sharp knife. Serve each slice with an optional dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra flair.
Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying a personal treat, this step-by-step guide ensures your Butterfinger Pie recipe turns out flawlessly every time.