If you have a serious sweet tooth and love that perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and a little bit salty, you are going to adore this Decadent Salted Caramel Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars Recipe. Imagine a smooth cream cheese filling layered on a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with a drizzle of luscious salted caramel and sprinkled generously with crushed Butterfinger candy bars for that unmistakable crispy crunch. These bars are everything you want in a dessert: rich, indulgent, and utterly satisfying with each bite. Trust me, once you try this Decadent Salted Caramel Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars Recipe, it’ll quickly become your go-to for impressing friends or indulging in a little personal treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating those layers of rich flavor and texture. From the buttery crust to the silky cream cheese filling and the crunchy candy topping, each item is simple yet essential to nail that perfect balance.
- Graham cracker crumbs: About 1 ½ cups of finely crushed crumbs create a sturdy, buttery base for the cheesecake bars.
- Unsalted butter: Six tablespoons of melted butter bind the crust ingredients together and add a luscious richness.
- Granulated sugar: Used in both the crust and filling to provide sweetness without overwhelming the flavors.
- Cream cheese: Sixteen ounces of softened cream cheese give the cheesecake its classic creamy texture.
- Large eggs: Two eggs help set the cheesecake while keeping it smooth and tender.
- Pure vanilla extract: A teaspoon for that warm, sweet aroma that enhances all the other flavors.
- Sour cream: Half a cup to add moisture and slight tang, keeping the filling perfectly balanced.
- Butterfinger candy bars: Crushed for texture and irresistible candy bar flavor, about two bars or 3.5 ounces.
- Salted caramel sauce: Half a cup drizzled on top for that perfect salty-sweet finish.
How to Make Decadent Salted Caramel Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This moderate temperature is perfect for baking the cheesecake bars evenly without browning them too much. Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving enough extra on the sides for easy lifting later on—this little trick makes cutting and serving so much easier.
Step 2: Make the Crust
Mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and ¼ cup granulated sugar until everything is well coated. This combination transforms simple crumbs into a flavorful crust that’s buttery and sweet. Press the mixture firmly into your prepared pan; this will be the foundation that holds your bars together.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Pop the crust into the oven and bake for 10 minutes. It’s important to bake this layer first so that it sets properly. Once baked, let it cool slightly while you prepare the cream cheese filling—this avoids mixing hot crust with your creamy batter.
Step 4: Cream the Cheese
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with â…” cup sugar at medium speed until super smooth and creamy. No lumps here! This smoothness is key to that perfect cheesecake texture and ensures a melt-in-your-mouth sensation.
Step 5: Add the Eggs and Flavorings
Add eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully mixed in before adding the next. This helps maintain a silky texture. Next, stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream gently—overmixing can cause cracks during baking, so just combine until smooth.
Step 6: Assemble the Filling
Pour the filling evenly over your slightly cooled crust. Use a spatula to smooth the surface, then gently tap the pan on your counter to release any air bubbles—those bubbles can cause holes or cracks, so this step is a game-changer for a perfect finish.
Step 7: Bake the Cheesecake Bars
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the edges are set and the center still jiggles a little when shaken. This slight jiggle means your cheesecake will stay creamy once cooled—overcooking can dry it out, so keep an eye on it towards the end.
Step 8: Add the Salted Caramel
Right after removing the bars from the oven, let them cool for about 10 minutes, then drizzle the salted caramel sauce evenly over the top. The warmth from the bars makes the caramel deliciously gooey and easy to spread.
Step 9: Sprinkle Butterfinger Candy
While the caramel is still warm, sprinkle the crushed Butterfinger candy bars evenly across the surface and press them down gently so they stick. This adds an irresistible crunch and that classic Butterfinger flavor we all love.
Step 10: Chill Thoroughly
Refrigerate the bars for at least 3 hours or overnight. This step is crucial as it allows the cheesecake to fully set and the flavors to marry beautifully, making each bite an absolute delight.
Step 11: Slice and Serve
Use the parchment paper overhang to carefully lift the chilled bars out of the pan. Then cut into nine equal squares and get ready to indulge in this amazing Decadent Salted Caramel Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars Recipe!
How to Serve Decadent Salted Caramel Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
These cheesecake bars are fantastic as-is, but you can elevate them with a few simple garnishes. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top enhances the salted caramel’s depth. Whipped cream or a few fresh raspberries add a light contrast to the richness.
Side Dishes
Pair these bars with a cup of strong coffee or rich hot chocolate for a cozy treat. Fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can brighten the dessert and balance the sweetness with refreshing notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, present these bars on a decorative platter with caramel drizzles around the edges and a scattering of crushed Butterfinger pieces. You can also serve them layered in clear dessert cups with whipped cream for a pretty, individual-sized option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover bars should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent them from drying out. They will stay delicious for up to 4 days.
Freezing
You can freeze these cheesecake bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge to preserve their perfect texture.
Reheating
These bars are best served chilled, so reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer a warm dessert, you can let them come to room temperature for about 20 minutes or enjoy them with a warm beverage on the side.
FAQs
Can I use a different candy bar instead of Butterfinger?
Absolutely! While Butterfinger adds a unique crisp peanut butter crunch, you can try other crunchy candy bars like Heath or Snickers for a different twist. Just crush them finely to layer on top.
Is it necessary to use sour cream in the filling?
Sour cream adds moisture and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness and keeps the texture smooth. You can substitute with Greek yogurt if needed, but keep it full-fat for best results.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or substitute with crushed gluten-free cookies for the crust. Just make sure your other ingredients, like caramel sauce, are also gluten-free.
How do I prevent cracks on the cheesecake surface?
To avoid cracks, don’t overbeat the filling, bake at a moderate temperature, and avoid opening the oven door too often. Using the tap-on-counter technique before baking helps release air bubbles that could cause cracks too.
Can these bars be made into mini servings?
Definitely! Just prepare the recipe as directed and cut into smaller squares or use a mini muffin tin for bite-sized cheesecake treats, perfect for parties or potlucks.
Final Thoughts
There is something utterly joyful about baking and sharing this Decadent Salted Caramel Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars Recipe. It’s a dessert that brings together luscious textures and bold flavors that feel both fancy and completely comforting. Whether you’re whipping this up for a special occasion or just because, these bars are guaranteed to delight your taste buds and create sweet memories. Give yourself permission to indulge and enjoy every glorious bite!
Print
Decadent Salted Caramel Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 65 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 9 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Decadent Salted Caramel Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars combine a rich graham cracker crust with a creamy cream cheese filling, topped with luscious salted caramel sauce and crunchy Butterfinger candy pieces. Baked to perfection and chilled to set, these bars offer a delightful combination of smooth, sweet, and crunchy textures — perfect for dessert lovers craving an indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets, finely crushed)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- â…” cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
Topping
- 2 Butterfinger candy bars, crushed (about 3.5 ounces)
- ½ cup salted caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal of the bars later.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and ¼ cup granulated sugar. Stir well until the mixture is evenly coated, then press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust layer.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
- Prepare the Filling – Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with â…” cup sugar on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to incorporate fully. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream, mixing until just combined to keep the filling smooth and prevent overbeating.
- Assemble Filling on Crust: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the slightly cooled crust. Spread with a spatula to level the surface and gently tap the pan on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles.
- Bake the Cheesecake Bars: Bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes, until the edges are set and the center still jiggles slightly when gently shaken.
- Cool and Add Toppings: Remove from oven and let the bars cool for about 10 minutes. Evenly drizzle the salted caramel sauce over the warm cheesecake surface.
- Add Butterfinger Topping: Sprinkle the crushed Butterfinger candy bars evenly over the caramel topping and gently press them down to ensure they stick.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 3 hours or overnight to allow them to firm up and the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars from the pan. Cut into 9 equal squares and serve chilled.
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature eggs and softened cream cheese to ensure a smooth filling.
- Make sure not to overbeat the filling once the eggs are added to prevent cracks during baking.
- You can substitute salted caramel sauce with homemade caramel if desired.
- Allow the bars to chill thoroughly to achieve clean cuts and the perfect texture.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
