Description
WW Butterfinger Balls are a delightful, healthier twist on classic candy, with a creamy, nutty filling and a sweet, candy-like coating. These treats are perfect for satisfying cravings without derailing your wellness journey. Each ball is packed with peanut butter flavor, coated in a rich shell, and offers a satisfying crunch. They’re low in SmartPoints, making them a guilt-free option for those watching their intake. Plus, they’re easy to make, require no baking, and can be prepared ahead of time for a convenient snack.
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter powder (such as PB2 or any low-fat peanut butter powder)
- 1/4 cup water (or as needed to form the right consistency)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (or a sugar-free substitute for a lower-calorie option)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup crushed corn flakes (for crunch)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (use sugar-free or low-calorie chocolate chips for fewer SmartPoints)
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil (to help melt the chocolate smoothly)
Optional: A pinch of salt if you prefer a slight salty contrast.
Instructions
- Prepare Peanut Butter Mixture
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter powder and water. Stir until smooth, adding more water if needed until it reaches a thick, spreadable consistency. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape but not too dry. - Sweeten the Mixture
Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the peanut butter mixture. Stir well until all ingredients are incorporated, creating a sweet, nutty filling. This mixture should resemble a thick dough. - Add Crunch with Corn Flakes
Gently fold in the crushed corn flakes, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture. These flakes add a satisfying crunch to the center of each bite, mimicking the texture of a Butterfinger bar. - Shape the Balls
Using a small cookie scoop or a teaspoon, portion out small amounts of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls. Aim for about 1-inch in diameter. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. - Chill the Balls
Once all balls are formed, place the baking sheet in the freezer for at least 20 minutes. Chilling will help the balls maintain their shape and make them easier to coat with chocolate. - Prepare the Chocolate Coating
While the balls are chilling, melt the chocolate chips with coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 15-20 second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted. - Coat the Butterfinger Balls
Remove the chilled balls from the freezer. Using a fork or a skewer, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, making sure it’s fully coated. Let any excess chocolate drip off before placing it back on the parchment-lined sheet. - Set the Coating
Place the coated balls back into the freezer for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set. The result is a smooth, shiny chocolate shell encasing the creamy, crunchy filling. - Serve and Store
Once the coating is set, your WW Butterfinger Balls are ready to enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for longer storage.
Tips for Best Results
- Use Low-SmartPoint Ingredients
Opt for sugar-free or low-calorie chocolate chips and powdered sugar substitutes to keep the SmartPoints as low as possible. - Add Extra Crunch
If you prefer an even crunchier texture, consider increasing the amount of crushed corn flakes slightly. - Adjust Sweetness to Taste
For a sweeter treat, add an extra tablespoon of powdered sugar or adjust according to your preferences. Taste the filling before shaping the balls to ensure it’s to your liking. - Alternative Coatings
For a different flavor twist, consider using white chocolate or dark chocolate, but keep in mind this may affect the SmartPoints. - Portion Control
Use a small scoop or teaspoon to keep each ball a uniform size. This helps with portion control and ensures each ball has the same amount of SmartPoints.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Serving Size: 1 Butterfinger Ball
- Calories: ~60 kcal
- Total Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- SmartPoints: 1-2 per ball (depending on specific ingredients used)
Note: Nutrition may vary depending on specific brands and ingredients used. Always calculate based on your specific items.
Smart WW Points Tips
To ensure this recipe is WW-friendly:
- Choose PB2 or a similar peanut butter powder, which is lower in calories and points compared to traditional peanut butter.
- Use a sugar-free powdered sugar substitute to reduce calories and points.
- Opt for low-calorie or sugar-free chocolate chips. This significantly reduces the SmartPoints without compromising on flavor.
Why This Recipe Works for WW Members
This WW Butterfinger Balls recipe is designed with simplicity and wellness in mind. By using powdered peanut butter, we can reduce the fat content while keeping the rich, nutty taste. Additionally, the crushed corn flakes provide a delightful crunch, mimicking the texture of classic Butterfinger candy without the excess sugar and calories. The chocolate coating is just enough to give a satisfying sweetness and an indulgent touch, all while keeping the SmartPoints low.
These bites are ideal for anyone seeking a healthier sweet option, and they’re incredibly versatile. They can be made ahead, frozen, and stored, making them a perfect snack for those on the go or needing a quick treat that aligns with their wellness goals.
Serving Suggestions
WW Butterfinger Balls are delicious on their own, but for an extra treat, try serving them with a small portion of fresh fruit or a cup of black coffee or tea. They also make a fantastic addition to a holiday platter or a party snack spread, offering a healthier option for guests.
With all the delightful flavors and textures, these WW Butterfinger Balls are a great choice for anyone following the WW plan or simply wanting a lighter version of a beloved candy. They balance taste and health, making it easy to satisfy your cravings without overindulging.