Let’s talk about utter dessert bliss: Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars. Imagine the decadence of silky cheesecake, rich caramel, and that iconic, buttery-crunch from Butterfinger pieces—layered on a buttery graham cracker crust. These bars are a showstopper for any sweet tooth, no matter if you’re baking for a special gathering or simply craving a fun, nostalgic treat at home. Each bite delivers all the best parts of a classic candy bar, swirled together with luscious cream cheese and a drizzle of golden caramel. From prep to your first gooey, crunchy bite, you’ll soon understand why this recipe becomes an instant favorite with everyone who tastes it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars are beautifully simple, yet each one plays a starring role in this craveable creation. Every element combines to give you that ideal contrast of creamy, crunchy, and sweetly salty—don’t be tempted to skip or swap them!
- Graham cracker crumbs: Provide the classic, buttery base that stays crisp beneath all that creamy cheesecake.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the crust and filling while helping the crust hold together.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Richness for the base—use unsalted to control the flavor perfectly.
- Cream cheese (softened): The heart of the bars, delivering that signature tang and smooth texture.
- Eggs: Bind everything together and add that delicate, custardy structure.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and deepens the cheesecake’s aroma.
- Caramel sauce: Adds a gorgeous swirl of flavor and that rich, sticky finish everyone loves—plus a little extra for drizzling.
- Chopped Butterfinger candy bars: The star ingredient—brings sweet, salty, crunchy magic to every layer (save some for the top!).
- Pinch of salt: Balances out all the sweetness, making each flavor pop.
How to Make Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment, leaving a little overhang for easy lifting later. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of sugar, and the melted butter. Press this satisfying mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust, using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to pack it down. Bake for 8 minutes, then let it cool while you prepare the filling. This gives you a perfectly set, never-soggy base for all the layers to come.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
Grab a large mixing bowl and beat your softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and dreamy—no lumps allowed. Add in 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, both eggs, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Keep beating until the mixture becomes creamy and fully blended. The secret to that velvety cheesecake? Softened cream cheese and a gentle touch!
Step 3: Add the Star Ingredients
Now comes the fun part: folding in 3/4 cup of your chopped Butterfinger (save the rest for the topping) and all that luscious caramel sauce. Gentle folding helps keep the bars beautifully marbled and stops the candy from sinking to the bottom. The result? Pops of crunch and ribbons of caramel in every single bite.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the irresistibly creamy mixture over your pre-baked crust and smooth the top just to the edges. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes—look for a center that’s just set yet with a slight, promising jiggle. Don’t overbake; the bars will finish setting as they cool.
Step 5: Cool, Chill, and Finish
Let the Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars cool completely to room temperature on a rack before chilling them in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours (overnight works wonders). Once chilled, drizzle with extra caramel and a generous sprinkle of the remaining Butterfinger. Lift out with your parchment “handles,” slice into neat bars, and watch them disappear!
How to Serve Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars
Garnishes
When it comes to finishing touches, nothing beats a final shower of chopped Butterfinger and a lavish drizzle of golden caramel sauce. If you’re feeling fancy, a dollop of softly whipped cream or even a pinch of flaky sea salt on top will highlight all the best flavors. Presentation really does elevate the already gorgeous Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars to bakery-level status.
Side Dishes
These bars are rich and satisfying, so lighter accompaniments work wonders—a small bowl of fresh berries or citrus segments is a refreshing match. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a hot cup of espresso can also transform these treats into an elegant dessert course for your next dinner party.
Creative Ways to Present
Sliced into bite-sized cubes and arranged on a pretty platter, Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars are perfect for sharing at potlucks or holiday gatherings. For a fun twist, serve them in cupcake liners or layer crumbled bars into individual parfait glasses with more whipped cream and caramel for a striking dessert-in-a-glass presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars are surprisingly sturdy and keep beautifully in the fridge. After slicing, place them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to keep them neat and fresh. They’ll stay delicious for up to four days—if they last that long!
Freezing
Planning ahead for a sweet emergency? These cheesecake bars freeze like a dream. Once they’re cut and cooled, wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready for a treat.
Reheating
You won’t need to reheat these bars—they’re best enjoyed straight from the fridge for that creamy, cool texture. If you like them a little softer, let them sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving. Quick tip: chill your knife for cleaner slices even after freezing or refrigerating.
FAQs
Can I use a different candy bar instead of Butterfinger?
While Butterfinger gives these cheesecake bars their signature nutty crunch and toffee flavor, you can definitely get creative. Try Snickers for extra caramel/peanut goodness or chopped Heath bars for a rich, toffee note. Just remember, the candy you use will change the flavor profile!
How do I stop my cheesecake bars from cracking?
Because these are baked in a small pan and chilled well, cracks are rare. For best results, don’t overbake—remove them when the center is just set and slightly jiggly. Chilling the bars before slicing also helps maintain that smooth, crack-free finish.
Can I make Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap out regular graham crackers for a gluten-free version. Be sure your caramel sauce and Butterfinger bars are labeled gluten-free as well—they make specialty versions to fit most diets these days.
What’s the easiest way to get clean slices?
Chill the bars thoroughly (overnight is best) for firm texture, then use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts. If you have one, a hot, thin-bladed knife works wonders for those smooth, bakery-style edges.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes! Just double each ingredient and use a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust the baking time as needed (it may take 5-10 minutes longer)—test for that signature gentle jiggle in the center to know they’re ready.
Final Thoughts
You owe it to yourself to experience the combination of flavors and textures in these Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars—every bite feels like a little celebration. Whether you’re sharing them at a party or sneaking one as a late-night treat, they’re guaranteed to bring smiles all around. So, grab your apron and let your inner dessert-lover run wild with this unforgettable recipe!
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Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the decadent delight of these Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars. With a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling studded with Butterfinger pieces, and a luscious caramel drizzle, every bite is a taste of heaven.
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 cup chopped Butterfinger candy bars, divided
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the pan and bake for 8 minutes.
- Make the Filling: Beat cream cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Fold in Butterfinger and caramel.
- Bake: Pour filling over crust and bake for 30–35 minutes until just set. Cool and chill for 3 hours.
- Finish: Drizzle with caramel, sprinkle with more Butterfinger, and slice into bars before serving.
Notes
- For cleaner cuts, chill overnight and use a sharp, clean knife.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
