Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake Recipe

If you love peanut butter and Butterfinger candy bars, this Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake is the ultimate indulgence! Imagine a creamy peanut butter cheesecake studded with chunks of crunchy Butterfinger candy, all on top of a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s the perfect dessert for any special occasion, or just when you’re craving something sweet, rich, and absolutely unforgettable. Whether you're a cheesecake pro or a baking newbie, this guide will help you create a dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!

What Is a Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake?

A Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake is exactly what it sounds like: a rich, creamy cheesecake made with peanut butter and chunks of Butterfinger candy bars, set on a classic graham cracker crust. This decadent dessert marries the smooth, salty taste of peanut butter with the irresistible crunch of Butterfinger candy. The graham cracker crust provides the perfect balance of texture, giving every bite a combination of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and salty.

The cheesecake is baked to perfection, chilled, and then topped with even more Butterfinger pieces, and a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce if you’re feeling extra indulgent. It’s a showstopper dessert that’s sure to impress anyone who tries it!

Ingredients List for Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake

Here’s a list of everything you’ll need to make this delicious cheesecake:

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Peanut Butter Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter (not the natural kind)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chopped Butterfinger candy bars (about 4 full-size bars)

For the Topping:

• ½ cup chopped Butterfinger candy bars (for garnish)
• Chocolate or caramel sauce (optional, for drizzling)

Substitutions and Variations

Need to tweak the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs? Here are some popular substitutions and variations to customize your Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake:

• Gluten-Free Option: Replace the graham crackers with gluten-free graham crackers or a gluten-free cookie crust.
• Reduced-Sugar Version: Use a sugar substitute like Stevia or monk fruit sweetener in the filling and crust to cut down on sugar.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese, use dairy-free butter, and choose a vegan sour cream alternative. Make sure to also use dairy-free Butterfinger-style candy.
• Nut-Free Variation: If you're allergic to peanuts, try substituting the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or cookie butter. You’ll lose the peanut butter flavor, but still enjoy a delicious cheesecake.
• Different Candy Bars: Not a Butterfinger fan? You can swap in other candy bars like Reese’s Cups, Snickers, or Twix for a fun twist!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to make your Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake absolutely perfect!

Step 1: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer.
4. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Butter Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and peanut butter together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the sugar and beat until well combined.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract and then the eggs, one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition until just combined.
4. Add the sour cream and flour, and gently mix until smooth.
5. Fold in the chopped Butterfinger candy bars.

Step 3: Assemble the Cheesecake

1. Pour the peanut butter cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
2. Gently tap the pan on the countertop a few times to remove any air bubbles.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
2. Turn off the oven, crack the oven door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks.
3. After the cheesecake has cooled, transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

Step 5: Add the Topping

1. Before serving, top the cheesecake with additional chopped Butterfinger candy bars.
2. Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra layer of indulgence, if desired.

How to Cook Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a simplified guide to walk you through cooking this delicious Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake:

1. Prep the Crust: Mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into your springform pan and bake for 10 minutes.
2. Make the Filling: Beat together cream cheese, peanut butter, and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, vanilla, sour cream, and flour, and fold in Butterfinger pieces.
3. Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the crust and bake for 50-60 minutes. Let it cool in the oven, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
4. Top and Serve: Garnish with chopped Butterfingers and drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best recipes can go awry if you’re not careful! Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake turns out perfectly:

• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing the cheesecake batter can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks during baking.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Always use room temperature cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream for a smooth, lump-free batter.
• Skipping the Cool Down: Allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven prevents cracks from forming on the surface.
• Cutting Too Soon: Chilling the cheesecake for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) helps it fully set and makes slicing easier.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation makes a big difference in how appealing your cheesecake looks. Here are a few tips for serving your Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake in style:

• Clean Slices: For neat, clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it clean between each cut.
• Butterfinger Garnish: Scatter chopped Butterfinger pieces over the top of the cheesecake for an extra crunch.
• Add a Drizzle: A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce over each slice enhances the flavor and makes the dessert even more tempting.
• Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a light contrast to the rich cheesecake.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake

Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake is best served chilled. After it has fully set in the refrigerator, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving plate. Slice the cheesecake with a hot, clean knife for perfect cuts, and serve each slice with a sprinkle of extra Butterfinger pieces and a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. This cheesecake pairs beautifully with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of milk for a balanced finish.

Presentation Ideas for Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake

Want to wow your guests with a beautiful presentation? Here are some creative ways to serve your Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake:

• Mini Cheesecakes: Instead of one large cheesecake, make individual mini cheesecakes in cupcake liners or mini springform pans for a fun, personal-sized treat.
• Candy Bar Crumble: Create a “candy bar crumble” by mixing chopped Butterfinger with other chocolate candy pieces like Reese’s Cups or Snickers for an extra-decadent topping.
• Layered Dessert: Serve a slice of cheesecake over a layer of peanut butter mousse or chocolate ganache for a multi-layered dessert extravaganza.

Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake Recipe Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth, creamy batter.
• Avoid Overbaking: The cheesecake should still have a slight jiggle in the center when you take it out of the oven.
• Chill Thoroughly: Patience is key! Let the cheesecake chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake?

A: Yes! Wrap individual slices or the whole cheesecake in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It will keep for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Q: How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

A: Use room temperature ingredients, avoid overmixing, bake at a low temperature, and let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven before refrigerating.

Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

A: Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add even more texture to the cheesecake, complementing the Butterfinger chunks.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve just mastered the art of making a delicious, show-stopping Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake. Whether you're baking for a party, holiday, or just a sweet treat at home, this cheesecake is sure to become a new favorite. With its creamy peanut butter base and crunchy Butterfinger bits, each bite offers a perfect balance of flavor and texture. So go ahead—give it a try and watch as it quickly disappears from the table! Happy baking!

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