What happens when you combine a Reese’s fan favorite with the crunch of Butterfinger in a rich cheesecake bar? It’s a match made in heaven, thanks to this easy homemade dessert recipe that features a velvety cheesecake filling and a crunchy cookie crust. Save this idea for your next family favorite treat to try soon

Reese’s Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars Are Stacked on Top of Each Other

Introduction

Imagine a dessert that combines the richness of cheesecake, the crunch of Butterfinger, and the peanut buttery goodness of Reese’s, all in one stunning bar. These Reese’s Butterfinger cheesecake bars are not just a treat for the taste buds, but also a visually impressive dessert that’s perfect for any gathering or special occasion. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make, using everyday ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. With a little creativity and some simple steps, you can create a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress your friends and family.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of Reese’s, Butterfinger, and cheesecake creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures that’s hard to resist. Plus, the ingredients are easy to find and work with.
• Ease of preparation: Despite their impressive appearance, these cheesecake bars are relatively simple to make. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are easy to mix and assemble.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The stacked design of these bars makes them look like a professional dessert, but the truth is, they’re quite easy to assemble and require minimal decorating skills.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in these Reese’s Butterfinger cheesecake bars include a graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake filling, crushed Butterfinger bars for added crunch, and Reese’s peanut butter cups for an extra burst of flavor. You’ll also need some basic pantry ingredients like sugar, eggs, and cream cheese. If you want to get creative, you can substitute the graham cracker crust with a different type of cookie or cracker, or use different types of candy bars to change up the flavor.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing the crust. Crush the graham crackers and mix with sugar and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into a baking dish and set aside.
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 well until combined.
3. Step 3: Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust and smooth the top. Bake until the edges are set and the center is just slightly jiggly.
4. Step 4: While the cheesecake is baking, prepare the topping. Crush the Butterfinger bars and chop the Reese’s peanut butter cups. Once the cheesecake is done, let it cool completely before topping with the crushed Butterfinger and Reese’s.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to cool the cheesecake completely before topping and serving. This will help the flavors to set and the textures to come together.
• If you find that your cheesecake is cracking, try baking it in a water bath or reducing the oven temperature.
• To get a clean cut, dip your knife in hot water and wipe dry before slicing the cheesecake bars.

Heat Control

If you’re baking the cheesecake, make sure to keep an eye on the temperature and timing. The ideal temperature for baking cheesecake is between 325°F and 350°F, and the baking time will depend on the size of your cheesecake. Look for the edges to be set and the center to be just slightly jiggly. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and bake for a few minutes less, rather than overcooking the cheesecake.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in these Reese’s Butterfinger cheesecake bars comes from the crushed Butterfinger bars on top. To achieve the perfect crunch, make sure to crush the bars just before topping the cheesecake, so they don’t get soggy or soft. You can also experiment with different types of candy bars or nuts to change up the texture and flavor.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a food processor to crush the graham crackers and Butterfinger bars for a uniform texture.
• Beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy, then add the eggs one at a time for a lighter texture.
• Let the cheesecake cool completely in the pan before refrigerating or freezing, to prevent cracking and ensure a smooth texture.

Storage Tips

• Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freeze the cheesecake bars for up to 2 months, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• When reheating, let the cheesecake bars come to room temperature or reheat in the microwave for a few seconds, until warmed through.

Gift Packaging Ideas

These Reese’s Butterfinger cheesecake bars are perfect for gifting, especially during the holidays or special occasions. Consider packaging them in a decorative tin or box, or wrapping them individually in cellophane or parchment paper. You can also add a personal touch with a gift tag or card, or include a few extra treats like candy or cookies.

Flavor Variations

• Try using different types of candy bars, like Snickers or Milky Way, for a unique flavor combination.
• Add some nuts or seeds, like peanuts or sesame seeds, for added crunch and texture.
• Experiment with different types of cheesecake flavors, like strawberry or mint, for a refreshing twist.

Troubleshooting

• If your cheesecake is cracking, try reducing the oven temperature or baking time.
• If your cheesecake is too soft or runny, try baking it for a few minutes longer or refrigerating it until set.
• If you’re having trouble getting the cheesecake to set, try using a water bath or wrapping the pan in foil to prevent overcooking.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake bars for up to 2 months, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Is it gluten-free? No, the graham cracker crust contains gluten, but you can substitute it with a gluten-free alternative if needed.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger batch of cheesecake bars, just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

These Reese’s Butterfinger cheesecake bars are a game-changer for any dessert lover. With their unique flavor combination, impressive appearance, and ease of preparation, they’re perfect for special occasions or everyday treats. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make them your own, and enjoy the ooohs and ahhhs from your friends and family when you serve them up. Happy baking!