Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake Recipe

If you’re a fan of peanut butter and Butterfinger candy bars, you’re going to love this Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake. This creamy cheesecake combines the rich, smooth flavor of peanut butter with crunchy, chocolatey Butterfinger pieces for a truly indulgent dessert. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy peanut butter filling, and a topping of crumbled Butterfinger, this cheesecake is perfect for any special occasion or a weekend treat.

What Is Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake?

A Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake is a rich and creamy dessert made with a peanut butter cheesecake filling and topped with crushed Butterfinger candy bars for extra crunch and flavor. The crust is usually made from graham crackers or chocolate cookies to complement the flavors, and the cheesecake is topped with whipped cream and even more crushed Butterfingers for a crunchy, peanut-buttery finish.

Ingredients List for Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or crushed chocolate cookies): Forms the base of the cheesecake.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the crust.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust and adds richness.

For the Peanut Butter Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 oz cream cheese, softened: The rich and creamy base of the cheesecake.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling.
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter: The star ingredient that adds flavor and richness.
• 1 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and balances the sweetness.
• 3 large eggs: Provides structure and richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor.
• ½ cup crushed Butterfinger candy bars: Adds crunch and texture to the cheesecake.

For the Topping:

• ½ cup heavy whipping cream: For homemade whipped cream (or use store-bought).
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For flavor in the whipped cream.
• ½ cup crushed Butterfinger candy bars: For sprinkling on top.

Substitutions and Variations

This cheesecake can be customized with different flavors and ingredients based on your preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Gluten-Free Crust: Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy-free cream cheese, butter, and sour cream.
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake: Add ¼ cup melted chocolate into the cheesecake filling for a chocolatey twist.
• Reese's Pieces Variation: Swap out the Butterfinger candy bars for Reese's Pieces or chopped peanut butter cups.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s get started on making this delicious Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake!

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, using the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed measuring cup to create an even layer.
4. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and set it aside to cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the granulated sugar and continue to beat until fully combined.
3. Beat in the peanut butter, sour cream, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Gently fold in the crushed Butterfinger candy bars using a spatula.

Step 3: Pour the Filling into the Crust

1. Pour the peanut butter cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even layer.
2. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Prepare a water bath: Wrap the bottom of the springform pan in two layers of heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent water from leaking into the cheesecake.
2. Place the cheesecake pan into a larger roasting pan and pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
3. Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (160°C) for 55-70 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center still jiggles slightly when the pan is gently shaken.
4. Turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracks.
5. Afterward, remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool completely at room temperature.

Step 5: Chill the Cheesecake

Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight, to allow it to fully set and develop its flavors.

How to Make Homemade Whipped Cream

Step 6: Make the Whipped Cream

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. This will take about 3-4 minutes.
2. Once the cheesecake has chilled, spread or pipe the whipped cream over the top of the cheesecake.

Step 7: Top with Crushed Butterfinger

Sprinkle the remaining crushed Butterfinger candy bars over the whipped cream for an extra crunchy, peanut-buttery finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Batter: Avoid overmixing the cheesecake filling after adding the eggs, as this can incorporate too much air and cause cracks during baking.
• Skipping the Water Bath: The water bath helps prevent cracks by providing gentle, even heat. Be sure to wrap the pan tightly to prevent water from leaking into the cheesecake.
• Not Chilling Long Enough: Cheesecake needs time to fully set. Be sure to chill it for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for the best texture.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Once your Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake has chilled, it’s time to serve and enjoy! Here’s how to present it beautifully:

How to Serve Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake

• Chill Before Slicing: Make sure the cheesecake is fully chilled before slicing for clean, neat cuts. Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wiped clean between each cut.
• Serve with Extra Toppings: Offer extra whipped cream, more crushed Butterfinger pieces, or even a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for added decadence.

Presentation Ideas for Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake

• Whipped Cream Rosettes: Pipe whipped cream rosettes around the edges of the cheesecake for a bakery-style finish.
• Butterfinger Pieces: Add extra chunks of Butterfinger on top of each slice for a crunchy garnish.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate or caramel over the top of the cheesecake for a final touch of indulgence.

Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake Recipe Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese, sour cream, and eggs are at room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth filling.
• Use Jimmies (Nonpareils) Sprinkles: If you want to add sprinkles inside the cheesecake filling for a funfetti effect, use jimmies (the long, cylindrical sprinkles) as they won’t bleed into the batter.
• Make Ahead: This cheesecake can be made up to 2 days in advance. Simply cover it tightly and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you like extra texture. It will add small pieces of peanuts throughout the cheesecake, complementing the Butterfinger crunch.

How long does the cheesecake need to chill?

The cheesecake needs to chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for the best texture and flavor.

Can I freeze Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake?

Yes! To freeze the cheesecake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days. If you’ve added whipped cream, you may want to wait until just before serving to avoid it becoming soggy.

Conclusion

This Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake is the ultimate indulgent dessert, combining the creamy richness of peanut butter cheesecake with the crunchy, chocolatey goodness of Butterfinger candy bars. Whether you're making it for a special occasion, a birthday, or just because, this cheesecake is sure to impress and satisfy any peanut butter lover’s sweet tooth. With its smooth texture, rich flavor, and irresistible crunch, it's a dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds. So, grab your ingredients, follow this recipe, and enjoy a slice of pure peanut-buttery bliss!

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