What happens when you combine a buttery crust with creamy cheesecake and crunchy Butterfinger bars? Pure dessert magic. These easy homemade bars feature a rich peanut butter flavor and a quick baking method. Save this idea for your next family favorite dessert night.

Reese’s Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars Are Stacked On Top Of Each Other

Introduction

Imagine a dessert so divine, it combines the creamy richness of cheesecake, the peanut buttery goodness of Reese’s, and the crunchy delight of Butterfinger, all stacked in perfect harmony. These Reese’s Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars are not just a treat for the taste buds, but a masterpiece of texture and flavor that will leave you and your guests in awe. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make, using everyday ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. This recipe is a testament to the magic that happens when creativity meets simplicity in the kitchen.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of Reese’s and Butterfinger provides a perfect balance of peanut butter and crunchy chocolate, while the cheesecake adds a creamy element. All ingredients are easily found in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: Despite the impressive outcome, these bars are relatively simple to prepare. The steps are straightforward, and each component can be made with minimal fuss.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The stacked presentation of these cheesecake bars makes them perfect for special occasions or potlucks, giving the impression of a intricate dessert without the intricate work.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients include a graham cracker crust, a cheesecake filling, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, and crushed Butterfinger bars. For the cheesecake, you’ll need cream cheese, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract. The graham cracker crust can be made with graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Feel free to substitute the graham cracker crumbs with other types of cookie crumbs for a different flavor. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, consider using gluten-free crackers or cookies.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing your crust. Mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture into a lined or greased baking dish. Bake until lightly browned and set aside to cool.
2. Step 2: Next, prepare the cheesecake filling. Beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add the eggs one at a time, followed by the sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and pour over the cooled crust.
3. Step 3: Bake the cheesecake until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Let it cool completely. Once cooled, melt the chocolate for the topping and spread over the cheesecake. Immediately place Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups on top of the melted chocolate.
4. Step 4: For the final touch, sprinkle crushed Butterfinger bars over the Reese’s Cups. Refrigerate until the chocolate is set, then cut into bars. To achieve the stacked look, cut the bars into squares or rectangles and stack them on top of each other, finishing with a drizzle of chocolate and additional crushed Butterfinger if desired.

Handy Tips

• To ensure the cheesecake bakes evenly and doesn’t crack, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing, and avoid overmixing the batter.
• For a cleaner cut, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between each cut.
• Consider using a water bath for baking the cheesecake to prevent cracking and ensure a smooth top.

Heat Control

When baking the crust and the cheesecake, it’s crucial to monitor the temperature and timing. The crust should be baked at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until lightly browned. The cheesecake should be baked at the same temperature for about 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Avoid overbaking, as this can cause the cheesecake to dry out.

Crunch Factor

The crunch in these bars comes from the Butterfinger topping and the graham cracker crust. To enhance the crunch, make sure not to overbake the crust, and use a generous amount of crushed Butterfinger bars on top. If you prefer a crunchier crust, you can bake it for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. Melting the chocolate in a double boiler or in short increments in the microwave can help prevent it from seizing up.
• For an extra creamy cheesecake, add a tablespoon or two of sour cream to the batter.
• To make cleanup easier, line your baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Storage Tips

• These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen bars can be thawed at room temperature or in the refrigerator when you’re ready to serve.
• When reheating, a few seconds in the microwave can restore the cheesecake to its creamy state, but be cautious not to overheat.

Gift Packaging Ideas

These cheesecake bars are perfect for gifting, especially during holidays or special occasions. Consider packaging them in decorative tins, jars, or boxes lined with parchment paper. You can also wrap individual bars in cellophane bags and tie with a ribbon for a more personalized touch. Adding a gift tag with the ingredients used can be a thoughtful gesture, especially for those with dietary restrictions.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Add a pinch of sea salt or a teaspoon of vanilla powder to the cheesecake batter for added depth.
• Creative toppings: Instead of Butterfinger, try using other crushed candies like peanut butter cups, M&M’s, or chopped nuts for a different texture and flavor.
• Ingredient swaps: Use different types of chocolate or substitute the cream cheese with a lighter version for a lower-calorie option.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your cheesecake turns out too dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. If it’s too soft, it might not have been baked long enough.
• Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find Butterfinger bars, you can substitute them with other crunchy candies. For a gluten-free option, replace the graham cracker crust with a gluten-free alternative.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on your cheesecake while it’s baking. If the edges start to brown too quickly, cover the edges with foil. If the center is still very jiggly after the recommended baking time, give it a few more minutes and check again.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, these bars can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly and store in a freezer-safe bag.
• Is it gluten-free? The original recipe includes graham cracker crumbs, which contain gluten. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by substituting the graham cracker crust with a gluten-free alternative.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe, but keep in mind that you might need to adjust the baking time slightly. Monitor the cheesecake closely to avoid overbaking.

Conclusion

Making these Reese’s Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars is a journey of creativity and simplicity, resulting in a dessert that’s both impressive and delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and toppings to make it your own, and most importantly, enjoy the process and share the joy with others. Happy baking!