Introduction
Craving a dessert that’s the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and utterly irresistible? Look no further than these Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars! This recipe combines the tangy richness of cheesecake with the satisfying crunch of Butterfinger candy and the decadent sweetness of caramel. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make, making it ideal for potlucks, parties, or a special treat for yourself. Get ready to experience a flavor explosion in every bite!
Making Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Topping:
- 6 fun-size Butterfinger candy bars, chopped
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Sprinkle the chopped Butterfinger candy bars evenly over the top.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool and Chill: Let the cheesecake cool completely in the oven with the door slightly ajar. This helps prevent cracking. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Add Caramel and Serve: Before serving, drizzle the caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake bars. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Cheesecake Bars
- Softened Cream Cheese is Key: Make sure your cream cheese is completely softened to avoid lumps in the cheesecake filling.
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaking will result in a dry and cracked cheesecake. Look for a slight jiggle in the center when it’s done.
- Cooling is Crucial: Cooling the cheesecake slowly helps prevent cracking. Letting it cool in the oven with the door ajar is a great trick.
- Get Creative with Toppings: While this recipe calls for Butterfinger and caramel, feel free to experiment with other toppings like chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of sea salt.
Variations and Substitutions
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
- Lower Sugar: Substitute a sugar alternative suitable for baking.
- Different Candy Bar: Not a fan of Butterfinger? Try using Heath bars or Snickers for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
These Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars are a guaranteed hit. The combination of the creamy cheesecake, crunchy candy, and sweet caramel creates a truly unforgettable dessert experience. With easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, you can whip up these bars for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a slice of heaven! Enjoy the burst of flavors and the satisfying textures in every single bite. You won’t be disappointed!
