Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these Reese’s Butterfinger cheesecake bars! They’re an absolute dream come true for anyone who loves rich, creamy cheesecake with a sweet, crunchy twist. The combination of smooth peanut butter and bits of Butterfinger candy creates a flavor explosion that is just out of this world. I mean, who can resist that perfect balance of chocolate, peanut butter, and buttery goodness? Trust me, these bars don’t just satisfy your sweet tooth; they make your heart sing!
This recipe has a special place in my kitchen because it combines two of my all-time favorite candies. Whenever I whip these up, it instantly feels like a celebration. Whether I’m sharing them with friends at a gathering or savoring a piece on a cozy night in, they never fail to impress. So, let’s dive into making these delightful treats together; you’re going to love every creamy, crunchy bite!
Ingredients List
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to cheesecakey bliss! Here’s everything you’ll need to create these delectable Reese’s Butterfinger cheesecake bars:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs: These will form the deliciously crunchy base. You can crush whole graham crackers in a food processor or just put them in a zip-top bag and smash them with a rolling pin—fun, right?
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: This helps bind the crumbs together and adds richness. Make sure it’s melted, but not too hot!
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened: The star of the show! Let this sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before using, so it blends smoothly.
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetening up the filling just right. You can use regular granulated sugar for that classic sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: This adds a warm, inviting flavor that complements the cheesecake beautifully.
- 3 large eggs: They help set the cheesecake and give it that perfect creamy texture. Make sure they’re at room temperature too!
- 1 cup peanut butter: Go for creamy or chunky, whichever you prefer! It brings that rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheesecake.
- 1 cup Butterfinger candies, crushed: Oh, the magic of Butterfinger! These little crunchy bits are going to add an irresistible texture and flavor to your bars.
Now that you have your ingredients ready, you’re on your way to making something truly special. Let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare reeses butterfinger cheesecake bars
Alright, let’s get into the fun part—making these incredible Reese’s Butterfinger cheesecake bars! Follow along, and I promise you’ll have a delicious treat that will wow everyone around you.
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your cheesecake bars bake evenly and set just right. So, while you’re gathering your ingredients, let that oven warm up and get ready for some magic!
Prepare the Crust
Now, grab a mixing bowl and combine your graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix them together until everything is nicely combined; it should have a slightly wet, sand-like consistency. Next, take this crumb mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of your baking pan. I like to use the back of a measuring cup to really pack it down—it helps create a solid base that won’t crumble away later. This crust is going to add that perfect crunch to your creamy cheesecake!
Make the Cheesecake Filling
Time to whip up that luscious filling! In another bowl, beat your softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract together until it’s beautifully smooth and creamy. You want to make sure there are no lumps, so take your time with this step. Once it’s all blended, you’ll add the eggs one at a time. This is super important—mixing in each egg thoroughly before adding the next helps ensure a silky texture. Trust me, your cheesecake will thank you for this little extra effort!
Combine Ingredients
Next, it’s time to stir in the peanut butter and those crushed Butterfinger candies. I always get a little excited at this point because the peanut butter adds that rich nuttiness, and the Butterfinger gives that delightful crunch. Just fold them in gently until evenly distributed, and you’ll have a heavenly filling that’s hard to resist!
Bake the Bars
Pour your cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly. Now, pop the pan into the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are set, but the center still has a slight jiggle. Don’t worry; it will firm up as it cools! Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to avoid overcooking.
Cooling and Refrigeration
Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. After that, you’ll want to transfer them to the fridge and let them chill for at least 2 hours before serving. This chilling time is essential for achieving that perfect, creamy texture. Plus, it gives the flavors a chance to mingle and get even better! So, patience is key here—good things come to those who wait!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Before you dive into these scrumptious Reese’s Butterfinger cheesecake bars, I want to remind you that the nutritional information can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I’ve provided a general idea of what to expect, it’s not an exact science. So, be sure to check the labels on your products if you’re keeping a close eye on those numbers. Enjoy every delightful bite without worry, and remember, everything in moderation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time—perfect for when you need a sweet fix fast!
- Irresistible Flavor Combination: The blend of creamy cheesecake, rich peanut butter, and crunchy Butterfinger creates a taste sensation that’s hard to beat!
- Crowd-Pleasing Treat: These bars are always a hit at gatherings, making them the ideal dessert to share with friends and family.
- Versatile Dessert: You can easily customize them by adding your favorite toppings or even swapping in different candies if you want to mix things up!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: They chill beautifully in the fridge, so you can prepare them ahead of time for parties or special occasions.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a cozy night in, these bars fit right in and elevate any moment.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your Reese’s Butterfinger cheesecake bars turn out absolutely perfect! Here are some tried-and-true tips that I’ve learned over the years to help you avoid any pitfalls and elevate your baking game:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps everything blend together beautifully and creates that creamy texture we love!
- Don’t Overmix: When you’re combining the cheesecake filling, be careful not to overmix once you add the eggs. Just mix until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can introduce air into the batter, which might lead to cracks as it bakes.
- Check for Doneness: Remember, the center should still have a slight jiggle when you take it out of the oven. It will continue to set as it cools, so don’t be tempted to leave it in longer than necessary!
- Chill Thoroughly: Patience is key! Give your bars plenty of time to chill in the refrigerator. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes slicing them much easier—trust me, they’ll hold their shape better!
- Use a Sharp Knife: When it’s time to cut your bars, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. This will help you achieve those clean, beautiful slices that look as good as they taste!
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! A drizzle of chocolate or a sprinkle of extra crushed Butterfinger can take these bars to a whole new level of deliciousness.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to making the most delectable Reese’s Butterfinger cheesecake bars. Happy baking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to mix things up a bit, I’ve got some fun variations for these Reese’s Butterfinger cheesecake bars that you’re going to love! Each of these ideas adds a unique twist while keeping the deliciousness intact:
- Mint Chocolate Chip: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the cheesecake filling and mix in some chocolate chips. Top with crushed Andes mints for a refreshing twist!
- Oreo Crust: Swap out the graham cracker crust for crushed Oreo cookies. The chocolatey flavor pairs beautifully with the cheesecake, giving you a cookies-and-cream vibe!
- Caramel Swirl: Drizzle some caramel sauce into the cheesecake filling before baking. Use a knife to gently swirl it through for a decadent caramel flavor in every bite.
- Chocolate Peanut Butter: Replace half of the peanut butter with melted chocolate for a rich chocolate-peanut butter combo. You can even fold in chocolate chips for extra indulgence!
- Nutty Surprise: Add chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, into the filling for a delightful crunch that complements the Butterfinger bits. It adds a nice texture contrast!
- Fruit Infusion: Mix in some crushed raspberries or strawberries into the cheesecake filling for a fruity twist that brightens up the richness of the bars.
Feel free to get creative with these variations or come up with your own! The beauty of these cheesecake bars is that they’re wonderfully versatile, and you can experiment with flavors that you love. Enjoy the process, and I can’t wait to hear about your delicious creations!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got these amazing Reese’s Butterfinger cheesecake bars ready to go, let’s talk about how to serve them up for maximum delight! These bars are already a showstopper on their own, but pairing them with a few complementary items can elevate the experience even more.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a light and airy contrast to the rich cheesecake. You can even sprinkle a little cocoa powder or crushed Butterfinger on top for an extra touch!
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the bars right before serving creates a decadent finish that chocolate lovers will adore. It’s like a little extra hug of flavor!
- Ice Cream: Serve these bars with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream on the side. The creamy ice cream pairs beautifully with the cheesecake, making each bite even more indulgent.
- Fresh Fruit: A side of fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, adds a refreshing pop of color and a hint of tartness that balances the sweetness of the bars.
- Espresso or Coffee: Enjoying a bar with a rich cup of coffee or a shot of espresso is a match made in heaven! The bitterness of the coffee complements the sweetness of the cheesecake beautifully.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, over the top for an added crunch and an extra layer of flavor. It’s a delightful textural contrast!
Feel free to mix and match these serving suggestions based on your mood or the occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, having a cozy night in, or celebrating a special moment, these little additions can take your Reese’s Butterfinger cheesecake bars to the next level. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve devoured your first blissful bites of these Reese’s Butterfinger cheesecake bars, you might find yourself with some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Here’s how to store them properly so they stay fresh and delicious for as long as possible:
- Storing Leftovers: Keep any uneaten bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay good for about 4 to 5 days—if they last that long! Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticky situations.
- Freezing for Later: If you want to save some for a future treat, you can freeze these bars! Just wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight.
- Reheating: If you prefer your cheesecake bars slightly warm, you can gently reheat them in the microwave. Just pop a bar on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for about 10-15 seconds, or until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat; you want to maintain that creamy texture!
By following these storage tips, you can savor the joy of your Reese’s Butterfinger cheesecake bars over several days. Trust me, they’re just as delightful even after a little time in the fridge or freezer. Enjoy every last crumb!
For more information on the health benefits of peanut butter, check out this Healthline article.
Additionally, if you’re interested in the history of cheesecake, you can read about it here.
Print
Reeses Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars: 10 Amazing Tips!
- Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious dessert combining the flavors of Reese’s and Butterfinger in cheesecake bars.
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup Butterfinger candies, crushed
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a baking pan.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in peanut butter and crushed Butterfinger candies.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until set.
- Let cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother texture.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Top with extra crushed Butterfinger before serving for added crunch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: reeses butterfinger cheesecake bars
