Christmas Candy Delights: Peanut Butter Balls, Butterfinger Candy, and Peppermint Bark

The holiday season is the perfect time to indulge in sweet treats and homemade candies. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering, giving out homemade gifts, or just enjoying a cozy night in, these three Christmas candy favorites—peanut butter balls, Butterfinger candy, and peppermint bark—are sure to bring joy and satisfy your sweet tooth. Each of these confections offers a unique blend of flavors and textures that are as fun to make as they are to eat. Let’s take a closer look at each of these festive treats.

1. Peanut Butter Balls

Peanut butter balls are a classic holiday treat that combines the rich flavor of peanut butter with a sweet, creamy coating. These no-bake candies are easy to make and loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips (for coating)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, softened butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs. Stir until well combined. The mixture should be thick but pliable.
  2. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  3. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth.
  4. Dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, coating it completely. Use a fork to lift it out and allow any excess chocolate to drip off.
  5. Return the coated balls to the parchment paper and refrigerate for at least an hour or until the chocolate has hardened.

Peanut butter balls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, making them perfect for holiday gifting or snacking.

2. Butterfinger Candy

If you love the crisp, crunchy texture of a Butterfinger candy bar, making homemade Butterfinger candy for the holidays is a treat that you can’t miss. With just a few ingredients, you can replicate the signature texture and flavor of the classic candy bar.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup peanut butter
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 (12-ounce) package candy corn
  • 2 cups milk chocolate chips

Instructions:

  1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the candy corn in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until completely melted.
  2. Stir the peanut butter into the melted candy corn until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  3. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated. The mixture will be thick and somewhat sticky.
  4. Press the peanut butter mixture into a parchment-lined baking dish, smoothing it out evenly.
  5. Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave and pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer.
  6. Allow the candy to cool completely at room temperature, then cut into squares or break into pieces.

These homemade Butterfinger candies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week and will bring a nostalgic, crunchy sweetness to your holiday celebrations.

3. Peppermint Bark

Peppermint bark is a quintessential holiday candy. Its layers of smooth dark and white chocolate, combined with crunchy peppermint pieces, create the perfect balance of richness and refreshing minty flavor. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make.

Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces dark chocolate (or semisweet)
  • 8 ounces white chocolate
  • 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes

Instructions:

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water or in the microwave. Stir until smooth, then pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer.
  3. Chill the dark chocolate layer in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes, or until firm.
  4. While the dark chocolate is chilling, melt the white chocolate in the same manner (microwave or double boiler). Once melted, stir in the peppermint extract.
  5. Remove the chilled dark chocolate from the fridge, then pour the white chocolate over it, spreading it evenly. Before the white chocolate sets, sprinkle the crushed peppermint over the top.
  6. Refrigerate the bark for another 30 minutes until fully set, then break it into pieces.

Peppermint bark is not only a festive and flavorful treat but also makes a beautiful gift. It’s simple to make, but the layers of chocolate and mint give it a luxurious feel that’s perfect for the holidays.

Final Thoughts

These three Christmas candies—peanut butter balls, Butterfinger candy, and peppermint bark—are fun to make and even more fun to eat. Whether you’re crafting them for family and friends or treating yourself, these homemade sweets will undoubtedly become holiday favorites in your household. The best part? They’re easy to make, customizable, and guaranteed to spread holiday cheer with every bite. So, get the ingredients ready, gather your loved ones, and start making these festive confections that will bring extra sweetness to your holiday season!