BUTTERFINGER PIE: The Ultimate No-Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Dessert
Craving a dessert that combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the satisfying crunch of chocolate candy? What makes the BUTTERFINGER PIE a standout favorite for family gatherings and holiday tables? This indulgent no-bake treat brings together smooth peanut butter, tangy cream cheese, and the iconic Butterfinger candy bars for a dessert experience that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly simple to prepare. With roots in American dessert culture and a modern twist on classic flavor pairings, this pie has become a go-to for anyone who loves the dynamic duo of chocolate and peanut butter.
For more inspiration on perfecting your dessert game, check out our chocolate fudge cupcakes and chocolate chip cookie dough bars. You can also explore community favorites on Reddit’s Cooking community and learn essential baking techniques from Food52’s pie crust troubleshooting guide.
Why This BUTTERFINGER PIE Recipe Stands Out
The BUTTERFINGER PIE is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of American candy culture and the timeless appeal of peanut butter and chocolate. Originally inspired by the classic flavor combination found in popular candy bars, this pie elevates the experience with a creamy, no-bake filling that lets the Butterfinger pieces shine. The recipe reflects a broader trend in American home cooking: the desire for easy, crowd-pleasing desserts that don’t require hours in the kitchen. With its origins in mid-20th century American cooking, no-bake pies became popular for their convenience and versatility, especially during summer months when oven use was limited.
BUTTERFINGER PIE Ingredients
Ingredient Spotlight
Each ingredient in this BUTTERFINGER PIE plays a crucial role in creating its signature texture and flavor. Cream cheese provides a tangy base that balances the sweetness, while peanut butter adds richness and depth. Powdered sugar ensures smooth sweetness without graininess, and Cool Whip gives the filling its light, airy texture. The star of the show—crushed Butterfinger bars—delivers the iconic chocolate-peanut butter crunch that makes this pie unforgettable.
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 (12.5-ounce) bag fun-sized Butterfinger bars, crushed (reserve 2 bars to sprinkle on top)
- 1 (8-ounce) container Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 store-bought Oreo or chocolate graham cracker crust
For those with nut allergies, sunflower seed butter can replace peanut butter. Vegan butter or dairy-free cream cheese work well for dairy-free versions. The chocolate crust can be swapped for a ginger snap or vanilla wafer crust for a different flavor profile.
Timing
Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 0 minutes | Total time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including chilling)
This BUTTERFINGER PIE comes together 30% faster than traditional baked pies and requires no oven time, making it perfect for hot days or when you want a fuss-free dessert.
Step-by-Step Instructions
### Step 1: Create the Creamy Base
Place the room-temperature cream cheese and peanut butter in a large mixing bowl. Add vanilla extract and beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until completely smooth and no lumps remain. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
### Step 2: Sweeten the Mixture
Gradually beat in the powdered sugar until fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Avoid overmixing once the sugar is added to prevent the filling from becoming too soft.
### Step 3: Add the Crunch
Fold in the crushed Butterfinger bars using a spatula. Be gentle to maintain some texture from the candy pieces. Reserve a few large chunks to sprinkle on top for visual appeal.
### Step 4: Lighten the Filling
Fold in the thawed Cool Whip until just combined. Overmixing can deflate the airy texture, so stop as soon as no white streaks remain.
### Step 5: Assemble and Chill
Spread the filling evenly into the chocolate crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the reserved Butterfinger pieces over the surface. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Results
- Use room-temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in your filling
- Crush Butterfinger bars in a zip-top bag using a rolling pin for even pieces
- Thaw Cool Whip in the refrigerator overnight, not at room temperature
- For cleaner slices, dip your knife in warm water and wipe dry between cuts
- Let the pie sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for easier slicing
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Mini Pies: Make individual servings using muffin tins with small crusts
- Chocolate Swirl: Add melted chocolate drizzled into the filling before folding
- Protein Boost: Mix in vanilla protein powder with the powdered sugar
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free chocolate cookie crust
Behind the Recipe
This BUTTERFINGER PIE recipe was inspired by childhood memories of Halloween candy and family potlucks. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate has always been a crowd-pleaser, and Butterfinger’s unique texture adds a nostalgic crunch that elevates the classic flavor pairing. The no-bake method makes it accessible for beginner bakers while still impressing seasoned dessert lovers.
Pairing Ideas
Serve this BUTTERFINGER PIE with cold milk, chocolate milk, or a vanilla milkshake. For a refreshing contrast, pair with strawberry lemonade or vanilla iced tea. A side of fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes it even more indulgent.
Leftover & Reuse Ideas
Leftover BUTTERFINGER PIE can be transformed into parfaits by layering with yogurt and granola. Crumble extra filling over ice cream for a decadent sundae topping. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 2 months in airtight containers.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 slice): Calories: ~380 | Fat: 22g | Carbohydrates: 42g | Protein: 8g | Sugar: 32g
Serving Suggestions
Garnish with additional crushed Butterfinger pieces and a drizzle of melted chocolate. Serve on a white plate to highlight the pie’s rich colors. For parties, cut into small squares and serve on a decorative platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold cream cheese, which creates lumps in the filling
- Overmixing after adding Cool Whip, which deflates the airy texture
- Not chilling the pie long enough, leading to sloppy slices
- Using melted Butterfinger bars instead of crushed, which affects texture
Storage & Reheating Tips
Store the BUTTERFINGER PIE covered in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic and stored in freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Do not microwave this pie as it will melt the chocolate and alter the texture.
FAQs
Can I make BUTTERFINGER PIE ahead of time?
Yes! This pie actually tastes better when made the day before serving, as the flavors have more time to meld together.
What can I use instead of Butterfinger bars?
You can substitute with crushed peanut butter cups, Snickers, or homemade peanut butter crunch candy.
Is this BUTTERFINGER PIE freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! The pie freezes well for up to 2 months when properly wrapped.
Can I make this pie with homemade crust?
Yes, press a mixture of crushed chocolate cookies and melted butter into a pie pan and chill for 30 minutes before adding the filling.
Why does my BUTTERFINGER PIE filling feel too soft?
This usually happens when the cream cheese wasn’t at room temperature or the pie wasn’t chilled long enough. Let ingredients soften properly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
Conclusion
The BUTTERFINGER PIE is the perfect blend of convenience and indulgence, offering rich peanut butter flavor, creamy texture, and satisfying chocolate crunch in every bite. With its easy no-bake preparation and crowd-pleasing taste, it’s ideal for holidays, potlucks, or whenever you need a dessert that delivers on flavor without demanding hours in the kitchen. The combination of smooth cream cheese, rich peanut butter, and iconic Butterfinger candy creates a dessert experience that’s both comforting and exciting.
Made this recipe? Drop your twist in the comments, rate the recipe, and tag us on Facebook, Instagram with #recipehoney.com we might feature your creation!
Butterfinger Pie – How to Make Easy No-Bake Dessert
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix Cream Cheese and Peanut Butter: Place cream cheese and peanut butter in a large mixing bowl. Add vanilla and beat with an electric mixer until smooth.
- Incorporate Sugar: Beat in powdered sugar until smooth.
- Add Butterfingers: Fold in crushed butterfingers.
- Fold in Cool Whip: Fold in Cool Whip until fully combined.
- Assemble Pie: Spread filling in crust. Sprinkle reserved butterfingers on top.
- Chill: Refrigerate at least 4 hours before serving.