Description
This decadent Butterfinger Cheesecake combines a creamy, smooth cream cheese filling with the crunchy, peanut buttery flavor of Butterfinger candy bars. The graham cracker crust adds a buttery base, while the rich filling is studded with chopped Butterfinger pieces for a delightful texture contrast. Perfect for holiday celebrations or any special occasion, this American-style dessert is both visually impressive and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups chopped Butterfinger candy bars, divided
Topping (optional)
- Whipped cream
- Extra Butterfinger pieces
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating a compact crust layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool slightly.
- Mix the cream cheese batter: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using a mixer. Gradually add 1 cup granulated sugar and continue beating until fully combined and smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until the batter is smooth and homogenous.
- Add Butterfinger pieces: Gently fold in 1 cup of the chopped Butterfinger candy bars into the cream cheese mixture, spreading them evenly throughout the batter.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the batter over the pre-baked crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top evenly with a spatula. Bake at 325°F for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the edges appear set but the center still jiggles slightly when the pan is gently shaken.
- Cool the cheesecake: Turn off the oven, crack the oven door open, and allow the cheesecake to cool inside for 1 hour; this gradual cooling helps prevent cracks. Afterward, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight for best results.
- Serve: Before serving, optionally top the cheesecake with whipped cream and sprinkle the remaining chopped Butterfinger pieces on top for extra crunch and decoration. Slice into 12 pieces and enjoy.
Notes
- Use room-temperature ingredients for a smooth batter and to avoid lumps.
- Do not overmix the batter to minimize cracking and ensure a creamy texture.
- Gradual cooling inside the oven helps reduce cracks on the cheesecake surface.
- A water bath (bain-marie) is optional but can help achieve even baking and prevent cracks.