Butterfinger Cookies are a nostalgic classic, combining the richness of shortening, the crunch of chopped nuts, and the sweetness of sugar into a delicate, crumbly treat. These cookies have a melt-in-your-mouth texture, enhanced by a splash of vanilla and a touch of water for moisture. Simple to make, they’re perfect for holiday cookie trays, bake sales, or cozy family gatherings. Their light, buttery flavor pairs beautifully with tea or coffee, making them a timeless favorite.
Ingredients
- ⅛ cup shortening
- 2 cups flour
- 5 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup nuts (chopped, walnuts or pecans recommended)
Instructions
Step 1: Cream Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 2: Add Vanilla & Water
- Mix in the vanilla extract and water until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Incorporate Flour Gradually
- Add the flour gradually, mixing after each addition until dough forms.
Step 4: Add Nuts
- Stir in the chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
Step 5: Shape Cookies
- Shape dough into small oblong fingers and place them on an ungreased baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Step 7: Optional Finishing
- While warm, you may roll cookies lightly in powdered sugar if desired.
Tips
- Shape as instructed on the card into oblong “finger” shapes for authentic look.
- Roll the warm cookies in sugar after baking (the card says “roll in sugar”). Powdered sugar works especially well.
- Lightly toast the nuts before mixing for deeper flavor.
- Substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds if preferred.
- Add a pinch of salt if using unsalted shortening for better balance.
- Chill dough briefly if it feels too soft to shape.
- For extra vanilla aroma, dust finished cookies with vanilla sugar.
- Add a light drizzle of melted chocolate for a festive variation.
- Make smaller cookies for cookie trays or edible gifts.
- Store in airtight container; these cookies keep well and improve slightly after a day.
Nutrition
Calories: 95kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 1gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gTrans Fat: 1.2gSodium: 5mgPotassium: 35mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 5IUCalcium: 4mgIron: 0.4mg
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