This Butterfinger Pie is a decadent treat for peanut butter and chocolate lovers. With a smooth peanut butter mousse, a chocolatey Oreo crust, and a rich ganache topped with Butterfinger pieces, it’s an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for any gathering.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 3 hours
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 8-10 slices
- Calories: Approximately 480 kcal per slice
Ingredients
Crust: 24 Oreo cookies (with filling); 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Filling: 1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin; 1 1/2 tablespoons water; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter; 8 ounces (1 1/2 cups) chopped Butterfingers (plus more for topping)
Chocolate Ganache: 8 ounces semisweet baking chocolate, chopped; 2 tablespoons corn syrup; 2/3 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease the sides of a 9-inch springform pan (skip if using a pie plate). In a food processor, blend Oreos and melted butter until fine. Press crumb mixture into the bottom of the pan and bake for 10-12 minutes. Let cool.
- Make the Stabilized Whipped Cream: In a small microwave-safe bowl, sprinkle gelatin over water and let sit for 5 minutes. Microwave for 10 seconds, stir, and set aside. In a mixing bowl, whip heavy cream and vanilla to soft peaks. Slowly add gelatin mixture, whipping to stiff peaks.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and peanut butter until smooth and fluffy. Gently fold in the whipped cream and chopped Butterfingers until well combined. Spread filling into crust evenly, then freeze while making the ganache.
- Make the Ganache: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat cream and corn syrup until just boiling (about 2 minutes). Add chocolate and let sit 3 minutes, then whisk until smooth. Let cool briefly, then pour over the pie, spreading to edges. Top with more crushed Butterfingers.
- Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 5 hours or freeze for 2 hours. For clean slices, use a hot knife dipped in warm water and wipe between cuts. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
This pie is best served chilled for a firm, creamy texture. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or special occasions, it pairs well with a glass of milk or coffee for an extra treat.
Storage Tips
Refrigerate for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to a month. Cover tightly to maintain freshness.
Helpful Notes
- Crust Substitute: A graham cracker crust works well if you prefer a lighter flavor.
- Peanut Butter Alternatives: Swap with almond or sunflower butter if desired.
- Extra Crunch: Add more chopped Butterfingers on top before serving for a delicious crunch.
Chef Tips
- Chef David Lebovitz: Recommends using high-quality chocolate for a smoother ganache.
- Chef Christina Tosi: Adds a pinch of sea salt to balance the sweetness and enhance flavor.
- Chef Ree Drummond: Suggests chilling the bowl and whisk before whipping cream for the best peaks.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I skip the gelatin? Yes, but it helps stabilize the mousse; without it, the filling may be softer.
- Is there a substitute for corn syrup? Use honey or omit it; the ganache may be slightly less glossy.
- Can I make this pie ahead? Yes, make it up to 2 days in advance.
- Can I use light cream cheese? Regular cream cheese provides the best texture, but light can work in a pinch.
- What if I don’t have a springform pan? Use a regular pie plate, but slicing may be trickier.
- Can I use a different candy? Yes, try Reese’s Cups or Snickers for a fun twist.
- How do I prevent ganache from cracking? Let it cool slightly before pouring to avoid cracking.
- How can I make it extra chocolatey? Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the filling for a chocolate-peanut butter combo.
- Can I use store-bought whipped topping? Yes, but stabilized whipped cream is richer.
- Why is my filling runny? Ensure whipped cream is stiff before folding into the filling.
This Butterfinger Pie is a decadent, creamy delight that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy each rich, nutty, chocolatey bite!
