Description
These Decadent Salted Caramel Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a creamy, smooth cheesecake filling. Topped with a luscious salted caramel sauce and crunchy crushed Butterfinger candy bars, these bars are the perfect indulgent dessert for any occasion, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets, finely crushed)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ⅔ 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 Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to easily lift the bars out later.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and ¼ cup granulated sugar. Stir until combined evenly, then press firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly while preparing the filling.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with ⅔ cup sugar on medium speed until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to incorporate fully. Stir in the pure vanilla extract and sour cream until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the cream cheese filling over the cooled crust. Spread gently and evenly. Tap the pan on the counter gently to release any trapped air bubbles.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when you gently shake the pan.
- Cool and Add Topping: Remove the cheesecake from the oven, let it cool for 10 minutes. Drizzle the salted caramel sauce evenly over the top.
- Add Butterfinger Pieces: Sprinkle the crushed Butterfinger candy bars evenly over the caramel topping and press gently so they stick.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the bars for at least 3 hours or preferably overnight to allow the cheesecake to firm up completely.
- Serve: Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and cut into 9 equal squares. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to ensure a smooth cheesecake batter.
- Do not overbake the cheesecake; a slight jiggle in the center ensures creamy texture after chilling.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean edges on the bars.
- Salted caramel sauce can be store-bought or homemade depending on preference.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Salted Caramel, Butterfinger, Cheesecake Bars, Dessert, Easy Cheesecake Recipe, Graham Cracker Crust
