Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that combines the creaminess of cheesecake with the crunch of Butterfinger candy bars and the sweet drizzle of caramel. These bars are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to a simple afternoon snack. The combination of flavors and textures creates a dessert that is not only satisfying but also incredibly fun to make. If you love the classic combination of chocolate and caramel, these bars are sure to become a favorite!
How to Make Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup caramel sauce, divided
- 5 fun-size Butterfinger candy bars, chopped
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until it’s fluffy. Slowly add in 3/4 cup sugar, mixing until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add the eggs one at a time to the mixture, mixing minimally after each addition to keep the eggs from being overmixed.
- Fold in 1/2 cup of the caramel sauce into the cream cheese mixture.
- Pour this mixture over the baked crust. Sprinkle half of the chopped Butterfinger candy bars on top.
- Bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes until the center is slightly jiggly.
- Let the bars cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 3 hours.
- Before serving, drizzle the remaining caramel sauce and top with the remaining Butterfinger pieces.
How to Serve Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars
Once your Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars are chilled and set, cut them into squares. They can be served directly from the refrigerator for a refreshing treat. You might want to add an extra drizzle of caramel on top to enhance the presentation and flavor!
How to Store Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars
Store the leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to a week, making them a great choice for meal prep or to satisfy your sweet tooth throughout the week.
Tips to Make Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars
- Make sure your cream cheese is really softened before mixing. This will help you achieve a smooth and creamy filling.
- If you prefer a thicker crust, add a bit more graham cracker crumbs or reduce the butter slightly.
- To beat the heat, try serving these bars chilled right out of the fridge.
Variation
For a twist on this recipe, you can substitute the Butterfinger candy bars with other favorite candies, such as Snickers or Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Each variation gives a unique flavor while maintaining the creamy cheesecake base.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure it’s nice and smooth for drizzling.
2. Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?
Yes, they can be frozen! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They should be good for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
3. What can I use instead of graham cracker crumbs?
You can use crushed vanilla wafers or Oreos as an alternative for the crust if you want different flavors!
