If you love the rich flavors of Reese’s and Butterfinger candy, these cheesecake bars are a dream come true. Combining creamy cheesecake, chocolate, and crunchy candy bits, this dessert is indulgent, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Candy lover’s delight: Packed with Reese’s and Butterfinger pieces, this dessert is a candy bar fanatic’s dream.
- Easy to make: Simple steps and straightforward ingredients make this recipe approachable for all skill levels.
- Perfect for sharing: Great for parties, potlucks, or as a homemade treat for family and friends.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prepare in advance and refrigerate for an effortless dessert option.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the crust:
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Granulated sugar
- Unsalted butter (melted)
For the cheesecake filling:
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Sour cream
For the topping:
- Reese’s candy pieces (chopped)
- Butterfinger candy bars (crushed)
- Chocolate chips
- Heavy cream
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the cheesecake filling
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Mix in vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust and spread it evenly.
Step 3: Bake and cool
- Bake the cheesecake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 4: Add the candy topping
- Once the cheesecake has chilled, sprinkle the chopped Reese’s and crushed Butterfinger pieces evenly over the top.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the candy topping.
Step 5: Slice and serve
- Use the parchment paper to lift the bars from the pan.
- Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 16-20 bars
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 35 minutes
- Chill time: 4 hours (or overnight)
- Total time: 5 hours
Variations
- Peanut butter lovers: Add a swirl of peanut butter to the cheesecake batter before baking.
- Candy mix: Use your favorite candies like Snickers or Twix for a customized treat.
- Gluten-free: Substitute the graham cracker crumbs with a gluten-free alternative.
- Dark chocolate twist: Use dark chocolate chips for a richer topping.
- Nut-free option: Omit Reese’s and Butterfinger pieces and use non-nutty candies.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: These bars are served cold and don’t require reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of crust?
Yes, an Oreo cookie crust or a chocolate cookie crust would work wonderfully.
How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake?
Make sure to avoid overmixing the batter and bake at a consistent temperature. The jiggly center will set as it cools.
Can I use light cream cheese?
For the best texture and flavor, full-fat cream cheese is recommended.
What’s the best way to crush Butterfingers?
Place them in a zip-top bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin.
Can I use mini Reese’s instead of Reese’s pieces?
Absolutely! Chop mini Reese’s and use them as a topping.
How do I make clean cuts for serving?
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wiped clean between cuts.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, they can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Can I skip the chocolate drizzle?
While optional, the chocolate drizzle adds a rich touch. You can skip it or replace it with caramel sauce.
What size pan works best for this recipe?
A 9×13-inch pan is ideal for the listed quantities, but you can halve the recipe for an 8×8-inch pan.
Can I use a no-bake cheesecake filling?
Yes, a no-bake cheesecake filling can be substituted for a quicker preparation.
Conclusion
Reese’s Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars are a decadent and crowd-pleasing dessert that combines the best of candy and cheesecake. Perfectly sweet, creamy, and crunchy, they’re an irresistible treat for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy the ultimate indulgence!
PrintReese’s Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars Recipe
These Reese’s Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate indulgence, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy peanut butter cheesecake filling, and a topping loaded with chunks of Reese’s and Butterfinger candies. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or when you’re craving something decadent!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup chopped Reese’s (peanut butter cups or Reese’s pieces)
- 1/2 cup chopped Butterfinger candy bars
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips, melted (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even crust. Bake for 8 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add the peanut butter, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread it evenly.
- Bake the Cheesecake Bars:
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and allow to cool to room temperature.
- Add the Topping:
- Sprinkle the chopped Reese’s and Butterfinger pieces over the cooled cheesecake layer. Gently press them down to stick.
- Drizzle with melted chocolate chips, if desired.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until firm. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice into squares and serve!
Notes
- For an even crunchier crust, substitute half the graham cracker crumbs with crushed Butterfinger pieces.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Drizzle caramel sauce on top for an extra layer of indulgence.