Buttercream Candies Recipe

Imagine biting into a silky, sweet cloud wrapped in rich chocolate—these Buttercream Candies are just that kind of bliss in candy form. They’re melt-in-your-mouth treats, way easier to make than you’d imagine, and endlessly customizable with flavors and toppings. Whether you want to impress at a holiday gathering, give a memorable homemade gift, or simply treat yourself, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for all things decadent and delightful.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Buttercream Candies is how a handful of simple, familiar ingredients blend together to create something absolutely magical. Each ingredient matters: from rich butter for creaminess to silky chocolate for the perfect shell, every element works together to deliver that iconic candy shop quality.

• Unsalted butter (½ cup, softened): Provides the creamy base for the buttercream, so make sure it’s truly soft for the smoothest texture.
• Sweetened condensed milk (½ cup): Brings the perfect amount of sweetness and helps everything bind together without the need for extra sugar syrups.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavor, giving the candy that classic depth—swap it for other extracts to change things up!
• Salt (¼ teaspoon): Just a hint lifts and balances all the sweetness, never skip it.
• Powdered sugar (4 cups): Essential for structure and that classic, fluffy buttercream bite.
• Chocolate (12 ounces, chopped or in chips): Your choice—dark, milk, or white—for the smooth outer shell; go with your favorite or mix and match.
• Coconut oil or shortening (1 tablespoon, optional): Makes the melted chocolate silkier and easier to dip, especially helpful if you want a glossy finish.

How to Make Buttercream Candies

Step 1: Beat the Butter

Start things off by placing your softened unsalted butter in a large mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer to beat it until it’s smooth, creamy, and paler in color. This step sets the foundation for a luscious buttercream center, so don’t rush—smooth butter means smooth candies!

Step 2: Mix in Condensed Milk, Vanilla, and Salt

Pour in the sweetened condensed milk, add the vanilla extract, and sprinkle in the salt. Mix until fully combined. The mixture will look a bit glossy at this point and smell absolutely incredible—a little sneak preview of what’s to come!

Step 3: Add the Powdered Sugar

Now it’s time for some sugar magic. Add the powdered sugar one cup at a time, blending after each addition. The mix will start off sticky, then become thick and doughy—don’t be afraid to use your hands at the end if it gets tough to stir. You’re aiming for a pliable, slightly tacky dough that holds together when rolled.

Step 4: Shape and Chill the Candies

Scoop out heaping teaspoonfuls of the buttercream and roll them into neat 1-inch balls. Place each one on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Once all your buttercream candies are shaped, pop the tray into the freezer for about 30 minutes. This quick chill firms them up, making them much easier to dip later on.

Step 5: Melt the Chocolate

While the buttercream centers are chilling, melt your chosen chocolate with the optional coconut oil or shortening. Microwaving in 30-second bursts (stirring each time) keeps the chocolate glossy and smooth. The coconut oil isn’t strictly necessary, but it adds that irresistible snap and shine.

Step 6: Dip and Set the Buttercream Candies

Using a fork or a candy dipper, submerge each cold buttercream ball in the melted chocolate, coat thoroughly, then lift out and gently tap off any extra chocolate. Return them to the baking sheet, and if you’d like to get decorative, sprinkle with toppings or drizzle more chocolate while they’re still soft. Let the candies set at room temperature or in the fridge until the chocolate is firm and ready for its close-up!

How to Serve Buttercream Candies

Garnishes

Buttercream Candies practically beg for a touch of flair! For a festive look, shower them with colorful sprinkles, crushed nuts, or delicate flakes of sea salt before the chocolate sets. Want a pro-level finish? Pipe a contrasting swirl of melted chocolate on top or dust with edible shimmer for extra wow factor. Each little touch takes the candies from simple to spectacular!

Side Dishes

These rich candies are delicious all on their own, but they absolutely shine when paired with coffee, espresso, or a soothing cup of tea. For a party, serve Buttercream Candies matched with bowls of fresh berries or crisp shortbread cookies—they’ll balance the sweetness perfectly, giving your dessert platter that extra something special.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation is half the fun! Arrange your Buttercream Candies in decorative tins lined with parchment for a swoon-worthy homemade gift. Try stacking them in clear jars for a dreamy, eye-catching display or nestle them in tiny paper cups on a platter. For parties, offer an assortment—maybe half dipped in dark chocolate, the others in white—so guests can pick their favorites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Buttercream Candies keep beautifully—store them in an airtight container with layers of parchment between each layer to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, making them ideal for prepping ahead of time for any special occasion or just when you need a little everyday treat.

Freezing

Want to make a big batch for later? Go for it! Place the candies, separated by parchment paper, in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep perfectly for up to two months. To serve, let them thaw gently in the fridge or at room temperature so the chocolate and buttercream return to their dreamy, creamy texture.

Reheating

Luckily, Buttercream Candies really don’t need reheating—they’re made to enjoy straight from the fridge or at room temperature. If you freeze them, simply let them come to room temp to regain their signature silky bite before serving.

FAQs

Can I flavor the buttercream with other extracts?

Absolutely! Peppermint, almond, coconut, or even orange extract are all amazing in Buttercream Candies. Just swap them in for the vanilla, or split the batch and do half-and-half for a flavor assortment.

What’s the best chocolate to use for dipping?

It’s entirely up to your personal taste—dark chocolate gives a bittersweet contrast, milk chocolate is richer and creamier, and white chocolate is ultra-sweet and beautiful for decorating. High-quality chocolate will make your candies taste even more luxurious!

My buttercream is sticky—what can I do?

If the dough is too sticky to roll into balls, simply add a little more powdered sugar (a tablespoon at a time) until it’s firm but still pliable. Chilling for a few minutes before rolling also helps!

Do I have to use coconut oil or shortening in the chocolate?

Nope! It’s totally optional and just makes the chocolate a little smoother and glossier. You can definitely melt and dip the chocolate as is if you prefer.

How can I make Buttercream Candies vegan?

Substitute the butter with a good-quality vegan butter, use sweetened condensed coconut milk, and choose dairy-free chocolate. The candies will still set up perfectly and taste divine.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to impress friends, family, or just treat yourself, Buttercream Candies are your ticket to homemade luxury with minimal fuss. Once you taste that creamy, dreamy center surrounded by rich chocolate, there’s no turning back—so grab your apron and dive in!

Print