These healthy homemade Butterfingers are crispy, peanut buttery treats coated in smooth chocolate. Made with just a few simple ingredients, they’re a lighter, wholesome twist on the classic candy bar—perfect for satisfying cravings without refined sugar or dairy (when using dairy-free chips).
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how easy and customizable these bars are. The crunchy cornflake texture paired with creamy peanut butter and honey makes a delightful base, while the chocolate coating gives that indulgent finish. Best of all, this recipe is naturally free from processed sugars and relies on pantry staples—no complicated ingredients, no fuss, just a tasty treat ready in just over an hour.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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peanut butter
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honey
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vanilla extract
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sea salt
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cornflake cereal
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chocolate chips (dairy-free, if needed)
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coconut oil
Directions
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In a saucepan over medium‑low heat, combine peanut butter, honey, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Stir until smooth and heated through, about 2–4 minutes.
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Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl and add cornflake cereal. Stir until the cereal is evenly coated, crushing lightly as you mix.
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Shape the mixture into 12–14 logs. Place them on a parchment-lined plate or baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour.
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Once frozen, melt chocolate chips and coconut oil together in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring frequently to avoid burning the chocolate.
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Dip each frozen log into the melted chocolate, letting any excess drip off. Return them to the parchment-lined surface and freeze again for about 10 minutes until the chocolate sets.
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Store in the refrigerator or freezer in an airtight container until ready to enjoy.
Servings and timing
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Serves: 12–14 bars
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Freeze Time: 1 hour
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Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
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Use almond butter or other nut/seed butter in place of peanut butter for different flavor profiles.
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Mix in chopped nuts, dried fruit, or seeds for texture and added nutrients.
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Swap cornflake cereal for rice cereal or gluten-free flakes to adjust dietary needs.
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Enhance the topping with a drizzle of melted peanut butter or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt after coating.
Storage/reheating
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Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or in the freezer for longer storage.
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To enjoy a softer texture, allow the bars to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating.
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Refreeze or refrigerate the leftover bars as needed to maintain freshness and crunch.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cereal for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute cornflakes with other options such as rice crisp cereal or gluten-free flakes to suit your preferences.
Are these Butterfingers vegan?
Not by default. They can be made vegan if you use dairy-free chocolate chips and verify that the peanut butter and other ingredients are vegan-friendly.
Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?
You can replace honey with maple syrup or agave syrup, but the texture may become slightly softer, so freeze the bars thoroughly.
Do I have to freeze the bars before dipping them in chocolate?
Freezing helps the bars hold their shape when dipped and ensures the chocolate sets crisp without melting the base.
How long do these bars stay fresh?
They stay good in the refrigerator for up to one week and can be frozen for up to three months.
Can I make these ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely. You can prepare them up to a week ahead and refrigerate or freeze. Just bring them to room temperature before serving.
What can I use if I don’t have coconut oil for the chocolate?
You can substitute coconut oil with a small amount of butter or neutral oil like canola; just be sure to melt gently to avoid seizing.
How do I prevent the bars from becoming soggy when stored?
Keep them in an airtight container and avoid exposing them to moisture. The refrigerator or freezer helps maintain their crunch.
Can I add flavor variations to the chocolate coating?
Yes, you can mix in optional flavorings like a pinch of sea salt, espresso powder, or a dash of cinnamon into the melted chocolate for extra interest.
Can these bars be nut-free?
Yes — use seed-based spreads like sunflower seed butter and ensure ingredients (like cereal and chocolate) are processed in nut-free facilities.
Conclusion
These Healthy Homemade Butterfingers are a delightful, easy-to-make, and customizable snack or dessert that marries a satisfying crunch with rich peanut butter and chocolate. They’re perfect for healthier indulgence, gatherings, or simply enjoying as a nostalgic treat — and with minimal prep time, they’re as convenient as they are delicious.
Print
Healthy Homemade Butterfingers
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12–14 butterfingers
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Healthy Homemade Butterfingers are a better-for-you version of the classic candy bar, made with peanut butter, honey, and crunchy cornflakes. Naturally sweetened, gluten-free, and optionally dairy-free, they’re a quick and fun no-bake treat that satisfies your sweet tooth with wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
1 cup peanut butter
1/3 cup honey
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp sea salt
1 3/4 cups cornflake cereal
1 cup chocolate chips (dairy-free if needed)
1 tsp coconut oil
Instructions
Make Peanut Butter Base:
In a saucepan over medium-low heat, melt and stir together peanut butter, honey, vanilla, and sea salt until smooth (about 2–4 minutes).
Combine with Cereal:
In a large bowl, pour the peanut butter mixture over cornflakes.
Stir until well combined, crushing flakes slightly so they’re well coated.
Shape & Freeze:
Form the mixture into 12–14 log shapes.
Place on a parchment-lined plate or tray and freeze for 1 hour.
Dip in Chocolate:
Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in the microwave or over a double boiler.
Dip each butterfinger log into the chocolate and let excess drip off.
Place back on parchment and freeze for 10 more minutes until set.
Notes
Store in the fridge or freezer for the best texture.
Use dairy-free chocolate chips for a fully dairy-free version.
You can adjust the sweetness by using more or less honey.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Freeze Time:: 1 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake, Freezer
- Cuisine: American
