This Butterfinger Cheesecake is a decadent treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate with the crunch of Butterfingers. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet indulgence, this cheesecake offers a creamy texture and a delightful mix of toppings, making it a standout dessert that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of peanut butter, cream cheese, and Butterfingers creates a flavor explosion in every slice.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Versatile Dessert: Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday celebration, or just a weekend treat, this Butterfinger Cheesecake fits any occasion.
- Decadent Presentation: The layers of chocolate ganache and whipped cream make this cheesecake visually stunning as well as delicious.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing your Butterfinger Cheesecake requires some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. Having the right equipment makes the process easier and more efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Springform pan: This tool allows you to easily remove the cheesecake without damaging its shape, ensuring a beautiful presentation.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing ingredients to achieve that creamy texture needed for cheesecake.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 2 1/4 cups (302g) Oreo crumbs
- 4 tbsp (56g) salted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 24 ounces (678g) cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup (207g) sugar
- 3 tbsp (24g) all purpose flour
- 3/4 cup (173g) sour cream, room temperature
- 1/2 cup (140g) peanut butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups (12 fun sized bars) chopped Butterfingers
For the Topping
- 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup (58g) powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp (35g) peanut butter
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- Chopped Butterfingers
How to Make Butterfinger Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a mixing bowl, combine Oreo crumbs and melted butter until well mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even crust. Bake for about 10 minutes, then let it cool.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar while mixing until combined. Add flour, sour cream, peanut butter, and vanilla extract; mix well. Beat in eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Gently fold in chopped Butterfingers.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Bake in preheated oven for approximately 55-60 minutes or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for an hour before removing it.
Step 4: Prepare Ganache Topping
In a saucepan over low heat, combine chocolate chips with heavy whipping cream. Stir until melted and smooth. Pour over cooled cheesecake once it’s completely set.
Step 5: Whip Cream Topping
In a bowl, whip remaining heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar until peaks form. Add peanut butter and vanilla extract; mix gently until combined. Spread over ganache layer.
Step 6: Final Touches
Top with additional chopped Butterfingers for decoration. Chill in refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving. Enjoy your indulgent Butterfinger Cheesecake!
How to Serve Butterfinger Cheesecake
Serving your Butterfinger Cheesecake can elevate the experience for you and your guests. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance this rich dessert.
Pair with Fresh Fruits
- Berries: Fresh raspberries or strawberries add a tart contrast to the creamy cheesecake.
- Banana Slices: Sweet bananas complement the peanut butter and chocolate flavors beautifully.
Add a Drizzle of Caramel Sauce
- Warm Caramel: A warm caramel drizzle can enhance the cheesecake’s sweetness and add a lovely texture.
Serve with Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a classic pairing, balancing the richness of the cheesecake.
- Chocolate Ice Cream: For chocolate lovers, this is an indulgent option that pairs perfectly with the flavors.
Garnish with Whipped Cream
- Regular Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream makes each slice visually appealing and adds lightness.
- Peanut Butter Whipped Cream: Enhance the peanut butter flavor by using peanut butter whipped cream as a topping.
How to Perfect Butterfinger Cheesecake
Creating the perfect Butterfinger Cheesecake involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cheesecake turns out delicious every time.
- Bold Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all dairy products are at room temperature for better blending and a smoother texture.
- Bold Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks during baking.
- Bold Bake in a Water Bath: Using a water bath helps regulate temperature and prevents cracking on the surface of your cheesecake.
- Bold Cool Gradually: Allow your cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven before removing it. This helps prevent sudden temperature changes that can lead to cracks.
- Bold Chill Overnight: For best results, let your cheesecake chill overnight. This enhances flavor and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Butterfinger Cheesecake
When serving Butterfinger Cheesecake, consider these delightful side dishes that pair well with its rich flavors.
- Chocolate Covered Strawberries: These sweet treats add an elegant touch and complement the cheesecake’s chocolate notes.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the heaviness of the cheesecake.
- Nutty Granola Parfait: Layered granola with yogurt offers crunch and creaminess, making it a perfect sidekick.
- Mini Chocolate Mousse Cups: Light and airy, these mousse cups are an excellent follow-up to such a rich dessert.
- Coconut Macaroons: Chewy coconut macaroons bring delightful texture and sweetness without overpowering the cheesecake.
- Coffee or Tea Service: A warm beverage complements dessert nicely, providing warmth against the sweet treat’s richness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Butterfinger Cheesecake can be fun, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your cream cheese and sour cream are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth and creamy cheesecake without lumps.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can incorporate air, leading to cracks in your cheesecake. Mix just until combined to keep it dense and rich.
- Skipping the water bath: A water bath helps regulate the temperature while baking, preventing cracks. Place your cheesecake pan in a larger pan filled with hot water.
- Cutting too soon: Allow your Butterfinger Cheesecake to cool completely before slicing. This ensures clean cuts and better texture.
- Not chilling long enough: Chilling is crucial for setting the cheesecake properly. Let it chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store the Butterfinger Cheesecake in an airtight container.
- It can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
- If you have leftover slices, cover them with plastic wrap or foil before placing them in the container.
Freezing Butterfinger Cheesecake
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Butterfinger Cheesecake
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cheesecake on a baking sheet covered with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this can affect texture.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid and warm it slowly for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Butterfinger Cheesecake?
Butterfinger Cheesecake is a rich dessert combining peanut butter cheesecake with chopped Butterfingers on top of an Oreo crust.
How do I make sure my cheesecake doesn’t crack?
To prevent cracks, use room temperature ingredients, mix gently, and bake in a water bath. Also, avoid sudden temperature changes when cooling.
Can I customize my Butterfinger Cheesecake?
Absolutely! You can add different toppings like caramel sauce or use other candy bars instead of Butterfingers for variety.
How long does Butterfinger Cheesecake need to chill?
Your cheesecake should chill for at least 4 hours before serving. For best results, refrigerate overnight.
Final Thoughts
This Butterfinger Cheesecake is not only indulgent but also versatile. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or try different candy bars! Enjoy making this delightful dessert that’s sure to impress family and friends!
Butterfinger Cheesecake
Indulge in the creamy decadence of Butterfinger Cheesecake, a delightful dessert that fuses rich peanut butter and chocolate flavors with the irresistible crunch of Butterfingers. This cheesecake is perfect for any celebration or as a sweet escape on a quiet evening at home. With a luscious cream cheese filling atop an Oreo crust and adorned with velvety chocolate ganache and whipped cream, every slice promises a burst of flavor that will leave your guests coming back for more. Easy to make and stunning in presentation, this Butterfinger Cheesecake is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups Oreo crumbs
- 4 tbsp salted butter, melted
- 24 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups chopped Butterfingers
- 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (for ganache)
- Additional heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Combine Oreo crumbs and melted butter in a bowl; press into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar gradually. Mix in flour, sour cream, peanut butter, and vanilla extract until combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently. Fold in chopped Butterfingers.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust and bake for about 55-60 minutes until set but slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let it cool inside for an hour.
- For the ganache, melt chocolate chips with heavy whipping cream over low heat; pour over the cooled cheesecake once set.
- Whip remaining heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar until peaks form; spread over ganache layer and garnish with more chopped Butterfingers.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature for better blending. To prevent cracks, avoid overmixing and consider baking in a water bath. This cheesecake can be customized with different toppings or candy bars.
