Introduction to Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something delicious. That’s why I absolutely adore these Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars. They’re not just a treat; they’re a delightful solution for those hectic days when you want to impress your family or friends without spending hours in the kitchen. With a creamy cheesecake filling, a crunchy graham cracker crust, and a sweet caramel drizzle topped with crushed Butterfinger bars, these bars are sure to bring smiles all around. Trust me, they’re worth every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars

These Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars are a dream come true for busy lives. They come together quickly, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or a sweet treat after dinner. The combination of creamy cheesecake and crunchy Butterfinger pieces creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, so you can enjoy more moments with your loved ones while still serving a show-stopping dessert!

Ingredients for Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars. Here’s what you’ll need:

Graham cracker crumbs: These form the base of your crust, providing a sweet and crunchy texture.
Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds the crumbs together, adding richness to the crust.
Granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness enhances both the crust and the cheesecake filling.
Cream cheese: The star of the show! Softened cream cheese creates a smooth and creamy filling.
Eggs: They help set the cheesecake, giving it that perfect, luscious texture.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
Sour cream: This ingredient adds tanginess and creaminess, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
Caramel sauce: Whether store-bought or homemade, this sweet drizzle elevates the bars to a whole new level.
Butterfinger bars: Crushed pieces of these chocolatey, peanut buttery treats provide a delightful crunch and flavor contrast.

For those looking to customize, feel free to adjust the amount of caramel and Butterfinger topping to suit your taste. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This step is crucial because it ensures even baking. While the oven warms up, line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Leave some overhang on the sides; this will make it a breeze to lift the bars out later. Trust me, this little trick saves you from a sticky situation!

Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

In a medium bowl, combine your graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until everything is evenly moistened. Now, here’s the key: press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. A well-pressed crust will hold together beautifully when baked, giving you that perfect base for your cheesecake filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. This is where the magic begins! Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until everything is fully incorporated. The mixture should be velvety and luscious, ready to pour over your crust. Don’t be shy; this filling is the heart of your Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars!

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the cheesecake filling over your cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes. Keep an eye on it! The edges should be lightly golden, and the center should have a slight jiggle. This means it’s perfectly set. Remember, overbaking can lead to cracks, so trust your instincts!

Step 5: Cool and Chill

Once baked, allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature. This step is essential for the flavors to meld. After it cools, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait. Chilling helps the cheesecake set properly, making it easier to slice into those beautiful bars later on.

Step 6: Add Toppings

After chilling, it’s time for the fun part! Drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the top of the cheesecake. Then, sprinkle the crushed Butterfinger pieces generously over the caramel layer. This adds a delightful crunch and sweetness that perfectly complements the creamy cheesecake.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Using the parchment overhang, carefully lift the cheesecake out of the pan and place it on a cutting board. Slice into bars with a sharp knife for clean edges. Serve these beauties chilled, and watch as your family and friends dive in with delight. Presentation matters, so feel free to arrange them on a pretty platter!

Tips for Success

Always use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in your filling.
Press the graham cracker crust firmly to ensure it holds together after baking.
Check for doneness by looking for a slight jiggle in the center of the cheesecake.
Chill the bars overnight for the best flavor and texture.
Feel free to customize the toppings to suit your taste!

Equipment Needed

9×9-inch baking pan: A square pan is ideal, but an 8×8-inch pan works too.
Parchment paper: This helps with easy removal; aluminum foil can be a substitute.
Mixing bowls: Use medium and large bowls for mixing crust and filling.
Electric mixer: A hand mixer is great, but a whisk works if you’re feeling strong!
Sharp knife: For slicing the bars neatly; a pizza cutter can also do the trick.

Variations

Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the graham cracker crust for an extra crunch.
Chocolate Lovers: Mix in chocolate chips into the cheesecake filling for a rich, chocolatey flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Fruit Infusion: Top the bars with fresh berries or banana slices for a fruity contrast to the rich cheesecake.
Vegan Version: Use vegan cream cheese and a flaxseed mixture instead of eggs for a plant-based alternative.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad to balance the richness of the bars.
For drinks, consider a warm cup of coffee or a chilled glass of milk.
Presentation matters! Arrange the bars on a colorful platter and garnish with extra crushed Butterfinger pieces.

FAQs about Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars

Can I make Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator after they’ve cooled and set. This actually enhances the flavors, making them even more delicious!

What can I use instead of Butterfinger bars?

If you’re not a fan of Butterfinger, you can substitute with other candy bars like Snickers or Reese’s for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to crush them up for that delightful crunch!

How do I store leftover cheesecake bars?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 4–5 days, but I doubt they’ll last that long!

Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?

Yes, you can freeze them! Just wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge before serving.

What’s the best way to cut the cheesecake bars?

For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it with a damp cloth between slices. This helps prevent the cheesecake from sticking to the knife, giving you those perfect, beautiful bars!

Final Thoughts

Creating these Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars is more than just baking; it’s about sharing joy with those you love. The moment you slice into that creamy, dreamy cheesecake and see the caramel and Butterfinger topping glistening, you know you’ve made something special. Whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet evening at home, these bars bring smiles and sweet moments. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to show that you care, all while keeping things simple. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the deliciousness, and enjoy every bite of this delightful treat!

Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars that Delight Your Tastebuds

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Author: Samantha
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 16 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delicious Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars with a graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and topped with caramel and crushed Butterfinger bars.

Ingredients

Scale

1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup granulated sugar
16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup sour cream
½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
3 Butterfinger bars, crushed

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully incorporated.
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden. The center should have a slight jiggle.
Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to fully set.
Once chilled, drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the top of the cheesecake. Sprinkle the crushed Butterfinger pieces over the caramel layer.
Using the parchment overhang, lift the cheesecake out of the pan and place it on a cutting board. Slice into bars and serve chilled.

Notes

For best results, use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps.
Feel free to adjust the amount of caramel and Butterfinger topping to your preference.
These bars can be made a day in advance for convenience.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 250
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 70mg