Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake Recipe

Craving a decadent dessert that’s as indulgent as it is delicious? This Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake is a rich, creamy treat with the perfect balance of sweet and salty. Loaded with the nutty flavor of peanut butter and the crunchy sweetness of Butterfinger candy bars, this cheesecake will leave you and your guests reaching for seconds! Whether you're hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, this dessert will surely be a crowd-pleaser. Read on to learn how to make this mouthwatering Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake and get all the tips you need to nail the recipe.

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What is a Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake?

A Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake is a rich, creamy dessert that combines the velvety texture of classic cheesecake with the nutty goodness of peanut butter and the crunchy, caramelized flakes of Butterfinger candy bars. This combination results in a dessert that’s both smooth and crunchy, sweet and salty, making it the ultimate treat for peanut butter and candy lovers alike. The crust typically consists of graham crackers or chocolate cookies, while the filling is made with cream cheese, peanut butter, and a generous helping of chopped Butterfinger bars.

Ingredients List for Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake

Before you dive into making this dessert, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s a complete list of what you’ll need to create this heavenly Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake:

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or chocolate cookie crumbs for a richer flavor)
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup melted butter

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8 oz) packages of cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 ½ cups chopped Butterfinger candy bars (about 4 full-size bars)

For the Topping:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Extra Butterfinger pieces for garnish (optional)

Substitutions and Variations

If you’re missing an ingredient or simply want to experiment with different flavors, here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:

• Crust Variations: Instead of using graham cracker crumbs, you can use Oreo cookies, peanut butter cookies, or chocolate wafer cookies to give the crust an extra kick of flavor.
• Sugar Alternatives: If you want to reduce the sugar content, you can replace granulated sugar with a sugar substitute like Stevia or erythritol. Keep in mind that this might slightly alter the texture of the cheesecake.
• Peanut Butter Substitutes: Allergic to peanuts? Try using almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter as a substitute. These will provide a similar creamy texture with a slightly different nutty flavor.
• Butterfinger Alternatives: If Butterfingers aren’t available, you can replace them with other crunchy candy bars like Reese's, Snickers, or Heath bars.
• Topping Variations: Instead of whipped cream, you can use a drizzle of chocolate ganache, peanut butter sauce, or caramel sauce for an added layer of indulgence.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered all the ingredients and considered any substitutions, it’s time to dive into the actual baking process. Follow these step-by-step instructions to make your own Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake from scratch.

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with non-stick spray or butter.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are fully coated and the mixture has the consistency of wet sand.
3. Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to press it down firmly.
4. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove it and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the sugar and peanut butter, and continue to beat until fully combined.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream, blending until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the cheesecake to crack while baking.
5. Fold in the chopped Butterfinger pieces, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly.
3. Once done, turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly, allowing the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven for about an hour. This helps prevent cracks from forming on the surface.
4. After the hour is up, remove the cheesecake from the oven and transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.

How to Cook Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking the perfect Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake requires attention to detail at every step. From mixing the ingredients to baking at the right temperature, follow these guidelines to achieve a flawless cheesecake:

1. Ensure All Ingredients Are Room Temperature: This helps create a smooth and creamy filling that incorporates evenly. Take out your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream about 30 minutes before you start baking.
2. Don’t Overmix the Batter: Once you’ve added the eggs, mix just until combined. Overmixing can add air to the batter, which can lead to cracks in the cheesecake as it bakes.
3. Use a Water Bath (Optional): If you want to ensure an ultra-smooth and crack-free cheesecake, bake your cheesecake in a water bath. Wrap the outside of the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent leaks, then place it in a larger baking pan filled with about an inch of hot water.
4. Slow Cooling: Rapid temperature changes can cause cracks in your cheesecake. After baking, allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven with the door cracked open.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best bakers can sometimes encounter issues when making cheesecake. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Overbaking: Overbaking is one of the most common mistakes in cheesecake-making. Remember, the center should still have a slight jiggle when you remove the cheesecake from the oven.
• Skipping the Water Bath: Though optional, skipping the water bath can increase the risk of your cheesecake cracking. The steam from the water bath helps maintain a moist baking environment.
• Not Chilling Long Enough: Cheesecake needs time to set properly. Don’t rush the process—allow it to chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serving your Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake with style can elevate the experience. Here are a few presentation and serving tips to impress your guests:

How to Serve Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake:

1. Slice Cleanly: For clean, professional-looking slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it clean between each cut.
2. Serve Chilled: Cheesecake is best served cold, so make sure to take it out of the fridge just before serving.
3. Add Toppings: Just before serving, garnish the top with extra whipped cream, chopped Butterfinger pieces, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake:

• Layer of Chocolate Drizzle: Use melted chocolate to create an elegant drizzle over the top of the cheesecake for added flair.
• Candy Bar Crumble: Sprinkle finely chopped Butterfinger pieces around the edge of the cheesecake or on individual slices for a crunchy finish.
• Mini Cheesecakes: For a fun twist, you can make mini cheesecakes using a muffin tin. Serve each guest their own personal dessert!

Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake Recipe Tips

Here are a few extra tips to help you make the most of this recipe:

• Use Full-Fat Ingredients: For the creamiest texture, stick to full-fat cream cheese and sour cream.
• Refrigerate Overnight: While 4 hours is the minimum chill time, overnight refrigeration will yield the best texture and flavor.
• Decorate Right Before Serving: If you're adding whipped cream or other toppings, do so just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I freeze Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake?
Yes! To freeze, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge overnight.

2. How long does Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, this cheesecake will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

3. Can I make this cheesecake without peanut butter?
Certainly! You can omit the peanut butter for a classic Butterfinger cheesecake or replace it with another nut butter like almond or cashew.

Conclusion

There you have it—the ultimate Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake recipe! With its rich, creamy peanut butter filling, crunchy Butterfinger chunks, and smooth whipped topping, this dessert is sure to become a favorite at any gathering. Now that you know the ins and outs of making this decadent cheesecake, it’s time to get in the kitchen and start baking. Enjoy!

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