Indulge in the decadent delight of Butterfinger Cheesecake with Caramel Drizzle. This heavenly dessert combines the irresistible crunch of Butterfinger candy bars with the creamy richness of cheesecake, creating a match made in dessert paradise.
In this revamped classic, chunks of Butterfinger candies are generously scattered throughout the velvety cheesecake, adding bursts of flavor and texture. The fudge-filled Oreo crust provides a delightful contrast to the smooth cheesecake filling, making each bite a symphony of flavors.
Topped with a luscious caramel drizzle, this Butterfinger Cheesecake is a show-stopping treat that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Get ready to swoon over this decadent creation that’s sure to become a favorite at any gathering.
Ingredients
Creating this indulgent Butterfinger Cheesecake with Caramel Drizzle requires gathering specific ingredients to bring out the perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
For the Cheesecake Base
- 2 ½ cups Oreo crumbs
- ½ cup butter, melted
For the Filling
- 3 8-ounce packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 large eggs
- ½ tsp Kosher salt
- 1 ½ cup Butterfinger candy bars, crushed (about 3 candy bars)
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 ¼ cup heavy whipping cream, very cold
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp cream of tartar
For the Caramel Drizzle
- ½ stick butter
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp Kosher salt
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp bourbon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 Butterfinger candy bar, chopped
- 4 ounces Butterfinger candy bar, chopped
- Dark chocolate syrup or chocolate syrup of your choice
- Caramel syrup
Required Equipment
To create the decadent Butterfinger Cheesecake with Caramel Drizzle, you will need some essential kitchen tools to ensure a smooth baking process and a delicious outcome.
- Mixer: A hand or stand mixer will be essential for mixing the cream cheese, whipped topping, and other ingredients to achieve a smooth and creamy filling.
- Mixing Bowls: Have a few mixing bowls in different sizes ready to combine and whisk the various components of the cheesecake.
- Spatula: A rubber spatula will help you fold in the whipped topping and crushed Butterfinger candy bars gently.
- Pie Plates: Prepare two pie plates to hold the fudge-filled Oreo crust and the luscious cheesecake filling.
- Knife and Cutting Board: A knife and cutting board will be handy for crushing the Butterfinger candy bars for the filling and topping.
- Refrigerator: Make sure you have enough space in your fridge to chill the cheesecake before serving, allowing all the flavors to meld perfectly.
- Drizzle Bottles: Optional but recommended for a neat presentation. Use drizzle bottles to create beautiful patterns with the caramel drizzle on top of the cheesecake slices.
Preparation Steps
Preparing the Base
To start, crush 36 Oreo cookies in a food processor until fine crumbs. Mix with 6 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter to form a cohesive mixture. Line a 10-inch springform pan with parchment paper and press the Oreo crumb mixture firmly onto the bottom to create an even crust. Chill the crust in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
Making the Filling
In a large bowl, combine 24 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, and 1 cup of powdered sugar. Mix using a hand or stand mixer until smooth. Add 8 ounces of whipped topping and fold until well combined. Gently fold in 4 ounces of chopped Butterfinger candy bar. Pour the filling over the chilled Oreo crust, spreading it out evenly. Refrigerate for 4-6 hours, preferably overnight, to set.
Creating the Caramel Drizzle
Prepare the butterscotch sauce by melting ½ stick of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add ½ cup brown sugar, a pinch of salt, and ½ cup of heavy cream, stirring until well combined. Boil the mixture for 4 minutes before removing from heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon of bourbon and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, then transfer the sauce to a container to cool. For easy drizzling, store the butterscotch sauce in a squeeze bottle or mason jar until ready to serve.
Baking the Cheesecake
After preparing the decadent Butterfinger Cheesecake with Caramel Drizzle, baking the cheesecake is the next crucial step to bring this indulgent dessert to life. With a rich peanut butter and Butterfinger filling nestled in a fudgy Oreo crust, this cheesecake promises a delightful treat for any occasion.
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to the specified temperature as per the recipe instructions. This ensures that the cheesecake bakes evenly and to perfection.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: As you prepare the creamy peanut butter and Butterfinger filling, ensure that all ingredients are well combined. The blend of cream cheese, sugar, sour cream, eggs, peanut butter, and chopped Butterfingers should be smooth and delicious.
- Fill the Crust: Pour the prepared cheesecake filling into the pre-baked Oreo crust, distributing it evenly to create a smooth surface.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Place the cheesecake into the preheated oven and bake according to the specified time in the recipe. Keep an eye on the cheesecake as it bakes to ensure it sets properly without overcooking.
- Check for Doneness: To check if the cheesecake is done, gently jiggle the pan. The center of the cheesecake should be slightly wobbly but not sloshy. It will continue to set as it cools.
- Cool and Chill: Once the cheesecake is baked to perfection, allow it to cool at room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator to chill. Chilling the cheesecake helps it firm up and enhances the flavors.
- Optional Caramel Drizzle: While the cheesecake chills, prepare a decadent caramel drizzle to enhance the dessert’s presentation and flavor profile. Drizzle the caramel over the chilled cheesecake before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
By following these steps, you’ll master the art of baking a Butterfinger Cheesecake with a caramel drizzle, ensuring a luscious and delightful dessert experience that will impress your family and friends.
Assembly and Decoration
Adding the Caramel Drizzle
After the cheesecake has chilled and set, it’s time to add the finishing touch with a luscious caramel drizzle. Prepare a homemade caramel sauce by melting butter and brown sugar in a saucepan until smooth and golden. Drizzle the warm caramel generously over the top of the chilled cheesecake, allowing it to cascade down the sides for a beautifully decadent finish.
Finishing Touches with Toppings
To elevate the presentation and flavor profile of your Butterfinger Cheesecake, sprinkle additional chopped Butterfinger candy bars over the caramel drizzle. The added crunch and sweetness will create a delightful contrast to the creamy cheesecake and rich caramel. For an extra indulgent touch, consider drizzling some warm chocolate sauce over the top before serving to impress your guests with a truly show-stopping dessert.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate the presentation and taste of your Butterfinger Cheesecake with Caramel Drizzle, here are some serving suggestions that will make your dessert even more delightful:
- Chocolate Drizzle: For an additional burst of chocolatey goodness, drizzle some chocolate sauce over the cheesecake just before serving. The combination of chocolate and caramel will tantalize your taste buds.
- Fresh Whipped Cream: Serve each slice of cheesecake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top. The lightness of the whipped cream will complement the rich and creamy texture of the cheesecake.
- Extra Butterfinger Toppings: Sprinkle extra chopped Butterfinger candy bars on each slice before serving for a satisfying crunch and an intensified Butterfinger flavor profile.
- Toasted Nuts: Consider adding some toasted nuts like pecans or almonds as a garnish. The nuttiness and crunch will add a delightful contrast to the smooth and creamy cheesecake.
- Caramel Sauce Swirl: If you can’t get enough caramel, create a beautiful caramel swirl on the plate before placing the cheesecake slice. The artistic touch will enhance the visual appeal of your dessert.
Storage Instructions
After indulging in the delightful Butterfinger Cheesecake with Caramel Drizzle, you may find yourself with leftovers that you’ll want to preserve for later enjoyment. Follow these simple storage instructions to keep your cheesecake fresh and delicious:
- Refrigeration: Place any remaining cheesecake in an airtight container or cover the springform pan with plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Properly stored, the cheesecake can last for up to 5-7 days.
- Freezing: If you want to save the cheesecake for a longer period, consider freezing it. Wrap the cheesecake (whole or in individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Alternatively, you can store slices in airtight containers. Frozen cheesecake can last for about 1-2 months.
- Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen cheesecake, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. This gradual thawing process will help maintain the texture and flavors of the cheesecake.
By following these storage instructions, you can ensure that your Butterfinger Cheesecake with Caramel Drizzle stays fresh and delicious for extended periods, allowing you to savor every last bite of this decadent dessert.
Conclusion
I’ve shared the delightful Butterfinger Cheesecake with Caramel Drizzle recipe, highlighting its rich flavors and simple preparation. Enhancements like chocolate drizzle and whipped cream elevate the dessert to a whole new level. When it comes to storing leftovers, remember to refrigerate for 5-7 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw with care to maintain the cheesecake’s luscious texture and flavors. Enjoy this decadent treat for days to come with these handy tips.