This peanut butter butterfinger cheesecake is a decadently rich dessert that satisfies the sweet tooth with every bite. It combines the creaminess of cheesecake with the crunchiness of butterfinger bars and the smooth, nutty flavor of peanut butter. A luscious treat that's sure to impress at any gathering or special occasion.
The ingredients for this recipe are generally easy to find at your local supermarket. If unavailable, Butterfinger candy bars can be substituted with any other crunchy, chocolate-coated peanut butter candy. As for full-fat cream cheese, it's an essential ingredient for a rich and creamy cheesecake, so make sure not to replace it with low-fat versions.
Ingredients for Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake
Oreos: Used to create the crust of the cheesecake. Its sweet, chocolatey flavor complements well with the peanut butter and butterfinger candy bars.
Unsalted butter: It's used for binding the Oreo cookie crumbs to form the crust. It also adds a rich flavor.
Cream cheese: This is the main ingredient for the cheesecake filling. It gives the cheesecake its signature creamy texture and tangy flavor.
Granulated sugar: It sweetens the cheesecake filling.
Sour cream or yogurt: Adds a slight tang to balance the sweetness of the cheesecake.
Creamy peanut butter: This is for the filling and it gives the cheesecake a pronounced peanut butter flavor.
Vanilla extract: It enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.
Eggs: They help to set the cheesecake filling as it bakes.
Butterfinger candy bars: They are folded into the cheesecake filling and used as a topping. They give the cheesecake a nice crunchy texture and a good peanut butter and chocolate flavor.
One reader, Belvia Gutierrez says:
This peanut butter butterfinger cheesecake recipe is a game-changer! The combination of creamy peanut butter and crunchy butterfinger candy bars is simply divine. The texture is perfect, and the flavors are so rich and indulgent. It's a showstopper dessert that will impress everyone!
Mastering the Techniques for Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake
How to prepare the crust: Crush the whole Oreos in a food processor or blender until they form fine crumbs, then mix them with melted butter and press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
How to make the filling: Beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy, then add the sour cream, peanut butter, and vanilla. Beat in the eggs one at a time, being careful not to overmix after each addition. Fold in most of the chopped Butterfingers before pouring the filling into the crust.
How to bake the cheesecake: Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan, fill the roasting pan with hot water, and bake the cheesecake until the center is almost set. After baking, let the cheesecake sit in the oven with the door slightly open for an hour before cooling and refrigerating.
How to decorate the cheesecake: Once the cheesecake is chilled, loosen it from the pan and remove the rim. Top with additional chopped Butterfingers and drizzle with melted peanut butter before serving.
How To Make Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake
Every slice of this Butterfinger cheesecake comes with an Oreo crust, a rich peanut butter and cream cheese filling packed with crushed candy bars.
Serves:
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 18whole Oreos,double stuff or regular
- ¼cupunsalted butter,melted
For the Filling:
- 24ozfull-fat cream cheese,softened to room temperature
- 1cupgranulated sugar
- ¾cupfull-fat sour cream or full-fat yogurt,at room temperature
- ½cupcreamy peanut butter
- 2tsppure vanilla extract
- 3large eggs,at room temperature
- 12fun size Butterfinger candy bars,or 5 regular size, chopped
- ¼cuppeanut butter,melted for drizzling, optional
Instructions
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Adjust oven rack to the lower third position and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.
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In a food processor or blender, pulse the whole Oreos (cream filling and cookie) into a fine crumb. Stir the cookie crumbs and melted butter together in a medium-sized bowl.
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Press into the bottom of the prepared pan and only slightly up the sides. The crust will be thick.
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Wrap aluminum foil on the bottom and tightly around the outside walls of the springform pan. Bake the crust for 7 to 8 minutes. Allow to slightly cool while preparing the filling.
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Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together on medium speed in a large bowl for about 3 full minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
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Add the sour cream, peanut butter, and vanilla, beat until combined. At low speed, add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition until just blended. Do not overmix the filling after adding the eggs.
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Using a rubber spatula or large wooden spoon, fold in ¾ of the chopped Butterfingers. The rest will be for decorating the top of the finished cheesecake.
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Pour the filling into the cooled crust. Place the springform pan into a large roasting pan and place it into the oven.
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Fill with about 1 inch of hot water. The foil wrapped around the pan will prevent water from leaking inside.
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Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until the center is almost set.
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Turn the oven off and open the door slightly. Let the cheesecake sit in the oven for 1 hour.
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Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight (preferred).
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Loosen the cheesecake from the rim of the pan and remove the rim. Top with additional chopped Butterfingers and drizzle with melted peanut butter.
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Cut into slices and serve chilled. Cover leftover cheesecake and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Nutrition
- Calories: 716.70kcal
- Fat: 51.30g
- Saturated Fat: 25.37g
- Trans Fat: 0.19g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 17.01g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.38g
- Carbohydrates: 62.14g
- Fiber: 3.75g
- Sugar: 50.36g
- Protein: 11.51g
- Cholesterol: 126.51mg
- Sodium: 309.30mg
- Calcium: 104.56mg
- Potassium: 400.02mg
- Iron: 4.22mg
- Vitamin A: 285.35µg
- Vitamin C: 0.13mg
A Crucial Technique Tip for Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake Success
When folding in the butterfinger candy bars into the cheesecake filling, ensure to do so gently. Overmixing can lead to a dense, heavy cheesecake. Instead, you want to maintain a light, creamy texture. Also, when drizzling the melted peanut butter on top of the cheesecake, you can use a piping bag or a ziplock bag with a corner cut off for a more controlled and even drizzle. This will not only enhance the flavor but also give your cheesecake a professional look.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Indulgent Cheesecake
Prepare the ingredients: Gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment before starting to make the cheesecake. This will help streamline the process and prevent any last-minute scrambling.
Plan ahead: Make the cheesecake a day in advance to allow ample time for chilling and setting in the refrigerator. This will also enhance the flavors and texture of the dessert.
Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly crush the Oreo cookies for the crust, saving time and effort compared to crushing them by hand.
Chill the crust: While preparing the filling, place the crust in the refrigerator to set. This will help it firm up and hold together better when the filling is added.
Room temperature ingredients: Ensure that the cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature before beginning. This will help the ingredients blend more easily and reduce mixing time.
Bake in a water bath: To prevent cracks and ensure even cooking, bake the cheesecake in a water bath. This method also eliminates the need for additional steps to prevent cracking after baking.
Pre-cut the butterfingers: Pre-cut the butterfinger candy bars before starting the recipe to save time during the assembly process.
Chill the cheesecake: After the initial cooling period, place the cheesecake in the freezer for a short time to speed up the chilling process before serving.
Substitute Ingredients For Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake Recipe
oreos - Substitute with chocolate graham crackers: Chocolate graham crackers can provide a similar chocolatey flavor and crunchy texture for the crust.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative and adds a hint of coconut flavor to the crust.
full-fat cream cheese - Substitute with vegan cream cheese: Vegan cream cheese can be used for a dairy-free version of the cheesecake filling.
granulated sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor to the filling.
full-fat sour cream or full-fat yogurt - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can provide a creamy texture and a hint of coconut flavor to the filling.
creamy peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter can be used as a substitute for a different nutty flavor in the cheesecake.
fun size butterfinger candy bars - Substitute with chopped chocolate-covered toffee: Chopped chocolate-covered toffee can provide a similar crunchy and sweet texture to the cheesecake.
peanut butter - Substitute with sunflower seed butter: Sunflower seed butter can be used as a nut-free alternative with a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor.
Presenting the Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake
Elevate the plating: When presenting the cheesecake, ensure that the plating is elegant and refined. Use a clean, white plate to allow the colors of the cheesecake and toppings to stand out. The presentation should be visually appealing and sophisticated.
Garnish with finesse: Add a touch of sophistication to the cheesecake by garnishing with finely chopped butterfinger candy bars and a delicate drizzle of melted peanut butter. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a layer of complexity to the flavor profile.
Create a harmonious composition: Arrange the cheesecake slices with precision, ensuring that each slice is presented with a balanced composition of crust, creamy filling, and decadent toppings. Pay attention to the placement of each element to create a visually stunning presentation.
Incorporate artistic elements: Consider incorporating artistic elements such as chocolate swirls or delicate edible flowers to add a touch of artistry to the presentation. These details will elevate the overall aesthetic and showcase attention to detail.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the cheesecake to be the focal point. Avoid overcrowding the plate and instead, let the dessert shine within its surroundings.
Emphasize precision: Pay close attention to the precision of each slice, ensuring clean edges and uniformity in size. This level of attention to detail demonstrates a commitment to excellence in both presentation and execution.
Highlight the layers: Showcase the layers of the cheesecake by ensuring that they are visible and distinct. This can be achieved by carefully slicing and presenting the dessert to highlight the luscious layers of creamy filling and crunchy crust.
Consider the use of edible gold leaf: For an opulent touch, consider delicately adorning the cheesecake with edible gold leaf. This luxurious addition will add a touch of extravagance to the presentation, befitting of a Michelin-starred dining experience.
Essential Tools for Crafting This Cheesecake Masterpiece
- Food processor: A food processor is used to pulse the whole Oreos into fine crumbs for the crust and can also be used to chop the Butterfinger candy bars.
- 9-inch springform pan: This pan is used to bake the cheesecake and allows for easy removal of the cake after it's been chilled.
- Aluminum foil: Aluminum foil is used to wrap around the springform pan to prevent water from leaking inside during the water bath.
- Oven: The oven is used to bake the cheesecake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Nonstick cooking spray: This is used to grease the springform pan to prevent the crust from sticking.
- Food processor or blender: A food processor or blender is used to pulse the whole Oreos into fine crumbs for the crust.
- Medium-sized bowl: A medium-sized bowl is used to mix the cookie crumbs and melted butter together for the crust.
- Handheld or stand mixer: A handheld or stand mixer is used to beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together for the filling.
- Paddle attachment: The paddle attachment is used with the stand mixer to beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together.
- Large bowl: A large bowl is used to beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together for the filling.
- Rubber spatula or large wooden spoon: A rubber spatula or large wooden spoon is used to fold in the chopped Butterfinger candy bars into the filling.
- Roasting pan: A roasting pan is used to create a water bath for the cheesecake while it bakes in the oven.
- Saucepan: A saucepan is used to melt the peanut butter for drizzling over the finished cheesecake.
Storing and Freezing Your Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake
- Cover leftover cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- To freeze the cheesecake, remove it from the springform pan and place it on a baking sheet. Freeze until firm, then wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- To thaw the frozen cheesecake, place it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, remove the wrapping and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
- If you want to freeze individual slices, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. This way, you can easily grab a slice whenever you're craving a sweet treat!
- For best results, always store your peanut butter butterfinger cheesecake in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to serve. This will help maintain its creamy texture and prevent any bacterial growth.
A Surprising Fact About Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake
Butterfinger candy bars were first introduced in 1923 and have been a popular treat ever since.
Is Making This Cheesecake at Home Cost-Effective?
This peanut butter butterfinger cheesecake recipe offers a delightful indulgence, but the cost-effectiveness for a household may be moderate. The use of cream cheese, butterfinger candy bars, and peanut butter can elevate the cost. However, the rich and creamy texture, combined with the irresistible flavors, earns it a solid 9/10 rating. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30, making it a special treat for occasions.
Is This Decadent Dessert Healthy or Unhealthy?
This peanut butter butterfinger cheesecake recipe is undoubtedly delicious, but it's not the healthiest dessert option. The main ingredients, such as cream cheese, sugar, sour cream, and peanut butter, are high in fat and calories. The Oreo crust and Butterfinger candy bars also contribute to the overall sugar and fat content. While this cheesecake can be enjoyed as an occasional treat, consuming it regularly may lead to weight gain and other health issues.
To make this recipe healthier, you could try the following:
- Replace the Oreo crust with a whole-grain graham cracker crust or a nut-based crust for added fiber and nutrients
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or use a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit
- Swap out the full-fat cream cheese and sour cream for low-fat or non-fat versions
- Use a natural, unsweetened peanut butter to reduce added sugars
- Decrease the number of Butterfinger candy bars or replace them with chopped nuts for a healthier crunch
- Serve smaller portions and pair with fresh fruit to balance out the richness of the cheesecake
The Editor's Take on This Peanut Butter Butterfinger Creation
As a culinary expert, I find this Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake recipe to be a delightful combination of rich flavors and textures. The creamy peanut butter and butterfinger add a delightful crunch to the velvety cheesecake, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and salty notes. The use of Oreo crust adds a decadent touch, complementing the overall dessert. The recipe's clear instructions and attention to detail ensure a successful outcome, making it an excellent choice for both experienced and novice bakers. This indulgent dessert is sure to impress and satisfy any sweet tooth.
Enhance Your Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delectable Alternatives to Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake
Appetizers and Main Courses to Complement This Decadent Cheesecake
Why trust this Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake Recipe:
This recipe is a decadent delight for all cheesecake lovers. The combination of creamy peanut butter and crunchy Butterfinger candy bars creates a symphony of flavors and textures. With a perfectly baked oreo crust and a luscious filling, this recipe promises a delightful indulgence. The step-by-step instructions ensure a foolproof process, and the use of high-quality cream cheese and peanut butter guarantees a rich and satisfying dessert. Trust in the rave reviews from those who have already savored this cheesecake, and you'll be rewarded with a show-stopping treat for any occasion.
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