Butterfinger Chocolate Cake

Butterfinger Chocolate Cake is a delectable dessert that embodies the rich chocolate flavor of classic chocolate cake with a crunchy twist of Butterfinger candy bars. This moist and indulgent cake is enhanced by the luscious caramel topping and creamy frosting, making it a heavenly experience for chocolate lovers. The texture is a delightful combination of soft and moist cake layers, with crunchy bits of Butterfinger that add an exciting texture. This cake is perfect for various occasions—from festive holidays to birthday celebrations, potlucks, or just a self-treat after a long day.

this recipe

What You’ll Need for Butterfinger Chocolate Cake

Complete Ingredients List

• 1 (15.25 oz.) box Chocolate Cake Mix
• Additional cake mix ingredients (eggs, oil)
• 1 cup Sour Cream
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1 Jar Caramel Ice Cream Topping
• 1 (16 oz.) container vanilla frosting
• 3/4 cup crumbled Butterfinger Cups minis, Butterfinger Bites, or Butterfinger Fun-Size

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

For those with dietary restrictions or personal preferences, here are some substitutions:

• Dairy-Free: Replace sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt or sour cream alternative. Use a dairy-free frosting and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix, available at most grocery stores.
• Lower Sugar: Opt for sugar-free chocolate cake mix and a lower sugar caramel sauce to reduce the overall sugar content.

Flavor Variations: For a twist on the classic flavor, consider mixing in peppermint extract for a minty variation or adding crushed nuts for extra crunch.

How to Make Butterfinger Chocolate Cake

Creating this Butterfinger Chocolate Cake is straightforward and allows you to make a show-stopping dessert with ease. Follow these detailed steps for a perfect cake every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix with the necessary ingredients (eggs, oil, etc.) as instructed on the box. Make sure to follow the instructions precisely, as this will form the base of your cake. Once you have mixed the initial ingredients, add in the cup of sour cream and 1 cup of chocolate chips to the batter. The sour cream will enhance the cake’s moisture and flavor, making for a richer taste.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased 9 x 13 inch baking pan. Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the cake mix box, and bake the cake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The time will vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on it.

Step 3: Poke Holes for Caramel

Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. While the cake is still warm, use the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the surface. Be generous with this step, as the holes allow the caramel topping to seep into the cake and enhance its flavor.

Step 4: Add the Caramel Topping

Take the jar of caramel ice cream topping and reserve 5 tablespoons for later. Pour the remaining caramel into the holes you’ve made in the cake. This step is key, as it adds flavor and moisture throughout the cake. Place the cake in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps the caramel solidify slightly and enhances the cake’s flavor.

Step 5: Frost and Garnish

After chilling, take the cake out of the fridge and spread the vanilla frosting over the top evenly. Sprinkle the crumbled Butterfinger candy on top followed by the reserved caramel for an added touch of sweetness.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Finally, slice the cake into squares, serve it up, and enjoy! Each bite will be filled with the amazing flavors of chocolate, caramel, and Butterfinger goodness.

Serving Suggestions for Butterfinger Chocolate Cake

How to Serve Butterfinger Chocolate Cake

This cake is best served chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer serving it slightly warm, allow it to sit out for about 20 minutes after taking it out of the refrigerator. For cutting, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between slices for neat portions. The presentation can be elevated with a drizzle of caramel sauce on individual plates, alongside the cake slices.

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

For an extra touch of delight, consider pairing the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You might also sprinkle some extra crushed Butterfinger on top of the whipped cream for a beautiful presentation, making every bite an experience.

Storing & Preserving Butterfinger Chocolate Cake

Best Storage Methods

To keep your Butterfinger Chocolate Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake can last for about 5-7 days, although it may start to lose some moisture after the first few days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

If you want to reheat the cake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the microwave for about 15-30 seconds, depending on the slice size. Alternatively, you can allow each slice to thaw in the fridge overnight if you’ve frozen it.

Tips for Perfect Butterfinger Chocolate Cake Every Time

Avoid These Common Mistakes

1. Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until everything is combined.
2. Not Poking Enough Holes: Make sure to poke enough holes for the caramel to soak into the cake.
3. Skipping the Chill: Letting the cake chill after adding the caramel is crucial for flavor.

Helpful Tricks for Success

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps in achieving a better-emulsified batter. Ideally, eggs and dairy should be at room temperature.
• Invest in Quality Chocolate: The flavor of chocolate chips can significantly affect the overall taste. Select good quality chocolate chips for better flavor.
• Experiment with Caramel: If you’re feeling adventurous, consider making homemade caramel sauce to pour over the cake for a gourmet touch.

Fun Variations of Butterfinger Chocolate Cake

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

For a fun twist, consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache under the frosting or blending in crushed-up cookies or nuts into the cake batter. You can also experiment with different types of flavored chips, such as peanut butter chips or mint chocolate chips, for a unique profile that pairs well with Butterfinger.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

• Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and use a vegan cake mix and frosting.
• Keto-Friendly: Opt for a low-carb cake mix, and replace the sugar with a sugar alternative while keeping the ingredient proportions in check.

FAQs

What If My Butterfinger Chocolate Cake Doesn’t Turn Out Right?

If your cake is too dry, it might have been overbaked. Always check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time ends. If it’s too gooey or doesn’t set, check your oven temperature; it might be too low. Remember that baking is a science, and exact measurements matter.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

You can prepare the cake a day in advance. Just ensure you store it properly covered in the refrigerator. Frost it just before serving to keep the frosting fresh.

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

If you can’t find chocolate cake mix, you can use a yellow cake mix or any other chocolate cake recipe. If Butterfinger isn’t available, try substituting with other crunchy chocolate candies like Reese’s or Snickers for a similar effect.

This Butterfinger Chocolate Cake is not just a sweet treat, but a celebration in the form of a dessert. Each moist and heavenly bite transcends the ordinary dessert experience, making it a must-try for cake lovers everywhere. Enjoy sharing this delectable treat with friends and family, or savor it all by yourself!

Print