Growing up in Chicago, my kitchen was always the heart of our home. I remember the aroma of my babcia’s apple cake wafting through the air, mingling with the laughter of family gathered around the table. Those moments were magical, filled with warmth and love. Now, as a mother of two, I strive to recreate that same magic for Ella and Peter. One of our family favorites is the Butterfinger Cheesecake—a delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake and the irresistible crunch of Butterfinger candy bars. This dessert is a tribute to my Polish-American roots, combining the comforting richness of cheesecake with a playful American twist.
Butterfinger Cheesecake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories. With its smooth, velvety texture and the delightful surprise of Butterfinger pieces, this cheesecake is a hit at every family gathering. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple Sunday dinner, this dessert never fails to bring smiles to our faces. Let me take you on a journey through this recipe, sharing tips and stories along the way, as we create a dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Butterfinger Cheesecake is a dessert that checks all the boxes. It’s indulgent, creamy, and has a delightful crunch that keeps you coming back for more. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Easy to Make: Despite its decadent appearance, this cheesecake is surprisingly simple to prepare.
- Perfect Texture: The creamy filling paired with the crunchy Butterfinger pieces creates a perfect texture contrast.
- Showstopper Dessert: It’s a fantastic centerpiece for any dessert table, guaranteed to impress your guests.
- Versatile: You can customize it with different toppings or mix-ins to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups chopped Butterfinger candy bars
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Stir in sour cream and flour until smooth.
- Add the Butterfinger: Gently fold in the chopped Butterfinger pieces into the cream cheese mixture.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly browned. Let it cool in the oven with the door slightly open for about an hour.
- Prepare the Ganache: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add chocolate chips, stirring until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly before pouring over the cooled cheesecake.
- Chill: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight, before serving.
What Makes This Recipe Special
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Packed with flavor and nutrition
- Perfect for any occasion
- Customizable to your taste preferences
- Budget-friendly ingredients
Expert Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This ensures a smooth and creamy filling.
- Avoid Overmixing: Be careful not to overmix the batter once the eggs are added. Overmixing can cause the cheesecake to crack.
- Water Bath: Consider using a water bath to bake your cheesecake. It helps prevent cracks and ensures even baking.
- Chill Time: Don’t rush the chilling process. Allow the cheesecake to chill thoroughly for the best texture and flavor.
Cooking Tools
When I make this Butterfinger Cheesecake, a few simple tools always make prep faster and cleaner. My go-to tool is the Silicone Utensils Set for mixing the batter smoothly without scratching my bowls. For chopping those Butterfinger bars, the MOSFiATA 8″ Professional Chef’s Knife is a lifesaver. It slices through candy bars like butter! And to ensure the cheesecake is perfectly set, I rely on the LeMuna Silicone Utensils Set for serving with ease.
Variations and Substitutions
- Different Candy Bars: Swap Butterfinger for Snickers or Reese’s for a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Crust: Use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free option.
- Fruit Toppings: Add a layer of fresh berries or a drizzle of fruit sauce for a fruity twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Butterfinger Cheesecake is a showstopper on its own, but you can elevate it further by serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine for a truly indulgent experience. Whether it’s a birthday celebration or a casual get-together, this cheesecake is sure to be the star of the show.
FAQs
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cheesecake can be made a day or two in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.
How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
To prevent cracks, avoid overmixing the batter, use a water bath, and let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open.
Can I freeze Butterfinger Cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze this cheesecake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
Final Thoughts
Creating this Butterfinger Cheesecake is more than just making a dessert; it’s about sharing love and creating memories with your family. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your home as it does to mine. Remember, the best part of cooking is the joy it brings to those around you. So gather your loved ones, indulge in the sweet, creamy goodness, and make every moment count.
👉 I hope you loved making this Butterfinger Cheesecake—it’s a crunchy, creamy delight that’s sure to become a family favorite. If you’re in the mood for more sweet treats, why not try my Chocolate Chip Cookies, Strawberry Shortcake, or Banana Bread? Each recipe is crafted with love and designed to bring a smile to your face. Join us on our Facebook Page and Facebook Group — and don’t forget to follow on Pinterest for daily inspiration!
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Butterfinger Cheesecake: 5 Irresistible Recipes
A creamy, crunchy cheesecake featuring the delightful flavor of Butterfinger candy bars.
Keep the screen of your device on while you follow the steps.
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar and vanilla. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each. Stir in sour cream and flour.
- Fold in chopped Butterfinger pieces.
- Pour filling over crust. Bake for 50-60 minutes, until set and lightly browned. Cool in oven with door slightly open for an hour.
- In a saucepan, heat heavy cream until simmering. Remove from heat, add chocolate chips, and stir until smooth. Cool slightly and pour over cheesecake.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.