Introduction
Butterfinger Pie is a delightfully rich, no-bake dessert that blends the irresistible crunch of Butterfinger candy bars with a smooth, creamy filling nestled in a buttery graham cracker or Oreo crust. It is incredibly simple to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for parties, holidays, or any time you crave an indulgent treat.
🍫 Ingredients
For the Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker or Oreo crumbs
- 6 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar (optional if using graham crackers)
For the Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 8 oz whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
For the Candy Mix-In
- 4 full-size Butterfinger bars, crushed (reserve some for topping)
Optional Toppings
- Extra crushed Butterfinger
- Chocolate drizzle
- Peanut butter drizzle
- Whipped cream
👩🍳 Instructions
- Prepare the Crust
- Mix the crumbs, melted butter, and sugar (if using) until well combined.
- Press firmly into a 9-inch pie dish.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes.
- Make the Filling
- In a bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla; beat again.
- Mix in the peanut butter until fully combined.
- Fold in the whipped topping gently with a spatula.
- Add the Butterfinger
- Stir in the crushed Butterfinger bars, saving a handful for the top.
- Assemble the Pie
- Spread filling evenly into the chilled crust.
- Sprinkle remaining crushed Butterfinger on top.
- Refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours (or freeze 1–2 hours for a firmer pie).
- Serve
- Slice and enjoy cold for the best texture.
🔧 Methods
No-Bake Method
The pie sets entirely through refrigeration; this makes it ideal for beginners or when you need a quick, no-fuss dessert.
Freezer Method
For a more ice-cream-like texture, freeze the pie and thaw slightly before serving.
Mixing Method
Creaming the cream cheese ensures a smooth texture, while folding in whipped topping maintains airiness for a light, fluffy filling.
📜 History
Butterfinger candy bars date back to the 1920s, created by the Curtiss Candy Company. The bar gained massive popularity due to its unique flaky peanut-butter-toffee center coated in chocolate. Butterfinger Pie emerged in American kitchens in the 1980s and 1990s as no-bake desserts became fashionable. Home cooks discovered that crushed Butterfinger paired beautifully with cream cheese and whipped topping, creating a quick dessert that delivered big flavor with minimal effort.
🌿 Benefits
- No baking needed — quick and convenient.
- Kid-friendly preparation — easy steps and fun candy crushing.
- Rich in flavor — combines chocolate, peanut butter, and creamy textures.
- Customizable — works with Oreo, graham cracker, or even pretzel crusts.
- Great for gatherings — easily made ahead and keeps well in the fridge.
🧩 Formation (Structure of the Pie)
- Base Layer:
A sturdy crust made from cookie crumbs binds together with butter and supports the filling. - Creamy Core:
A whipped blend of cream cheese, peanut butter, and topping forms the centerpiece of the pie. - Candy Integration:
Crushed Butterfinger pieces are folded into the filling, giving bursts of crunchy sweetness. - Topping Layer:
Final layer of candy, drizzles, or decorative whipped cream adds texture, color, and flavor.