If you love a dessert that combines rich, creamy textures with a satisfyingly crunchy twist, you are going to adore this Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Mini Pies Recipe. These delightful little pies offer the perfect balance of buttery graham cracker crusts, luscious caramel sauce, and the unmistakable crunch of Butterfinger candy, all wrapped in a smooth, airy whipped cream cheese filling. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a sweet treat, this recipe is a total crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential in creating that unforgettable combination of flavors and textures in your mini pies. Each component brings something unique to the table, from the crunchy crust to the creamy filling and sweet, caramel finish.
- Mini graham cracker pie crusts: The perfect buttery and slightly sweet base that holds all your delicious fillings with ease.
- Caramel sauce (1 cup): Use store-bought for convenience or homemade for extra decadence—this adds rich sweetness and moisture.
- Butterfinger candy bars, crushed (1 cup): The star ingredient that provides that signature crunchy, peanut buttery texture.
- Whipped cream cheese (1/2 cup, softened): Adds a creamy tanginess that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Powdered sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese mixture smoothly and helps with texture.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Whipped to soft peaks for a light, fluffy filling.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors with its warm, aromatic notes.
- Chocolate chips (1/4 cup, optional): Melted for drizzling, this adds a lovely hint of chocolate for extra indulgence.
- Additional crushed Butterfinger for garnish: Keeps the theme going and adds an inviting crunch on top.
How to Make Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Mini Pies Recipe
Step 1: Whip the Cream Cheese Mixture
Start by beating the softened whipped cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together in a mixing bowl until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. This mixture forms the rich, tangy base of your mini pie filling.
Step 2: Add Heavy Cream for Fluffiness
Slowly incorporate the heavy cream into your cream cheese base, beating continuously until soft peaks form. This step is key to getting a light, airy texture that makes every bite melt in your mouth.
Step 3: Fold in Crushed Butterfinger Candy
Gently fold in the crushed Butterfinger pieces, making sure to reserve a few for the garnish later. The candy bits add a satisfying crunch and that beloved Butterfinger flavor throughout the filling.
Step 4: Fill the Mini Pie Crusts
Carefully spoon or pipe the creamy Butterfinger mixture into each mini graham cracker crust. Smooth the tops with a spatula or spoon so they look neat and inviting—presentation matters, even for mini pies!
Step 5: Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
Drizzle a generous layer of caramel sauce over each filled pie, letting its rich, golden sweetness seep into the creamy filling for an irresistible flavor combination.
Step 6: Add an Optional Chocolate Drizzle
If you’re feeling extra indulgent, melt the chocolate chips and drizzle them lightly over the caramel-topped pies. This adds a beautiful visual contrast and a touch more decadence.
Step 7: Garnish with Crushed Butterfinger Pieces
Top each mini pie with the reserved crushed Butterfinger bits to add color, texture, and an extra punch of that classic candy bar crunch.
Step 8: Chill Before Serving
Pop the pies in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This chilling time lets the flavors meld, the filling set perfectly, and makes them easier to enjoy with a cool, refreshing finish.
How to Serve Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Mini Pies Recipe
Garnishes
Feel free to sprinkle extra crushed Butterfinger candy for that added crunch and visual appeal. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream can also make these mini pies look and taste even more special.
Side Dishes
Serve these mini pies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fresh fruit salad to balance the richness. A hot cup of coffee or milk pairs beautifully, providing a comforting contrast to the sweet, crunchy pies.
Creative Ways to Present
Since these pies are mini, they make fantastic party treats presented on a tiered dessert stand. You can also serve them in individual clear cups layered with caramel and crushed Butterfinger to create a parfait-style dessert that’s both fun and elegant.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Mini Pies should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for busy schedules.
Freezing
While these mini pies are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them for up to a month. Be sure to freeze before drizzling caramel or adding garnish to preserve texture, then add those fresh before serving.
Reheating
No need to reheat these pies since they are meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If thawed from frozen, allow them to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular pie crust instead of mini graham cracker crusts?
Absolutely! Regular pie crust can be cut into smaller circles and used as a base if mini graham cracker crusts are unavailable. Just bake them according to package instructions before filling.
Is it possible to make the caramel sauce from scratch?
Yes! Homemade caramel sauce adds a lovely personalized touch. Simply melt sugar and butter with cream, stirring until smooth. Use store-bought if you’re short on time—it works beautifully too.
Can these pies be made dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and heavy cream with coconut cream or plant-based alternatives. Keep in mind texture and taste might differ slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How long should I chill the pies for best flavor?
Chilling for at least one hour is ideal as it allows the filling to set properly and the flavors to meld harmoniously. If you’re short on time, 30 minutes can work, but the texture won’t be as firm.
Can I prepare these mini pies in advance for a party?
Definitely! This Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Mini Pies Recipe is wonderful for make-ahead occasions. Prepare them the day before and store covered in the refrigerator—they’ll be just as fresh and tasty.
Final Thoughts
Making this Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Mini Pies Recipe is like inviting a little party into your kitchen with every bite. The interplay of creamy filling, crunchy candy, and luscious caramel is simply irresistible. I really hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy sharing it with friends and family as much as I do—these mini pies are a guaranteed hit that everyone will be asking for again and again!
Print
Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Mini Pies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 mini pies (6-8 servings)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Mini Pies are a delightful no-bake treat featuring a creamy whipped filling mixed with crunchy Butterfinger candies, nestled in mini graham cracker crusts, topped with rich caramel sauce and optional chocolate drizzle for an irresistible dessert perfect for parties or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
Pie Crusts
- 1 package mini graham cracker pie crusts (or regular pie crusts, cut into smaller portions)
Filling
- 1/2 cup whipped cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Butterfinger candy bars, crushed (plus additional for garnish)
Topping
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Prepare the filling base: In a mixing bowl, beat the whipped cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps for a silky texture.
- Whip the cream: Gradually add the heavy cream to the cream cheese mixture while continuing to beat until soft peaks form, creating a light and airy whipped cream consistency.
- Fold in candy pieces: Gently fold the crushed Butterfinger candy bars into the whipped mixture, reserving some pieces to garnish later; this adds a satisfying crunch throughout the filling.
- Fill the crusts: Carefully spoon or pipe the prepared cream and Butterfinger filling into each mini graham cracker crust, smoothing out the tops with a spoon or spatula for an even presentation.
- Add caramel topping: Drizzle a generous amount of caramel sauce over the filled mini pies to enhance the sweet and buttery flavor combination.
- Optional chocolate drizzle: If desired, melt the chocolate chips and lightly drizzle over the caramel-topped pies to add a rich chocolate accent.
- Garnish: Sprinkle the remaining crushed Butterfinger pieces on top of each mini pie as a final decorative and crunchy touch.
- Chill before serving: Place the mini pies in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to let the filling set and flavors meld, ensuring they are perfectly chilled and ready to enjoy.
Notes
- You can substitute mini graham cracker pie crusts with regular pie crusts cut into smaller portions if preferred.
- For homemade caramel sauce, use a classic recipe with butter, sugar, and cream for best flavor.
- The pies should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
- If you want to make the pies ahead, assemble and refrigerate, but add the Butterfinger garnish just before serving to keep it crunchy.
- The optional chocolate drizzle adds extra sweetness but can be omitted for a simpler version.
