Oh my goodness, have I got a treat for you today! If there’s one dessert that can make me swoon, it’s definitely a cheesecake, and not just any cheesecake – we’re talking about a **Creamy Luscious Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake**! This dessert is like a hug in slice form. It’s rich, creamy, and sprinkled with the nostalgia of every candy lover’s childhood favorite – Butterfinger.
I first whipped up this recipe for a family get-together, and let me tell you, it stole the show! Just imagine the look on everyone’s face when they took that first bite; it was pure delight! It’s creamy, it’s dreamy, and the crunch of the Butterfinger on top is the perfect finishing touch. Whether it’s for a birthday, a potluck, or just because it’s Tuesday, this cheesecake is sure to impress and get everyone talking!
What’s in Creamy Luscious Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake?
Let’s dive into the delicious ingredients that make this cheesecake a must-try:
Chocolate Sandwich Cookies: These little marvels form the crust and bring rich chocolate flavor to the base. I usually grab the store brand because they do the trick perfectly!
Unsalted Butter: This creamy goodness helps bind the crust together. Plus, unsalted ensures that we can control the saltiness in our dessert.
Cream Cheese: The star of the show! Softened to perfection, it provides that luxurious, creamy texture we all crave in a cheesecake.
Creamy Peanut Butter: Oh yes! This ingredient adds a nutty sweetness that balances beautifully with the chocolate and Butterfinger. I always reach for the Jif or Skippy because they blend so well.
Powdered Sugar: This gives our cheesecake the sweetness it’s begging for without any graininess—after all, we want a smooth bite!
Vanilla Extract: The magic ingredient that adds depth of flavor. Nothing beats pure vanilla extract, in my opinion!
Eggs: They help set the cheesecake and give it that perfect custardy texture.
Sour Cream: A little bit of tanginess to balance the sweetness and add richness. Don’t skip this!
Butterfinger Candy: Crumbled right on top, because we need that sweet and crunchy finish. It’s like the cherry on top, but more fun!
Whipped Cream (Optional): If you’re feeling fancy, a dollop of whipped cream takes this dessert to another level of indulgence.
Is Creamy Luscious Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake Good for You?
Now, let’s take a moment to think about health. I know what you might be thinking: “But is cheesecake good for me?” Well, moderation is key, my friend!
Peanut Butter: Full of protein and healthy fats; it can be a great source of energy. Just remember to watch those portions!
Cream Cheese and Sour Cream: While they do provide richness, they also add calories and fat. Enjoy it, but maybe not for breakfast every day!
The real health compromise here is the indulgence factor. Treating yourself occasionally with this cheesecake can definitely bring happiness to your day—just don’t make it an everyday indulgence!
Ingredients
– 1 ½ cups chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 large eggs
– ½ cup sour cream
– 1 cup Butterfinger candy, crumbled
– Whipped cream (optional, for serving)
*Serves: 10-12 people*
How to Make Creamy Luscious Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake?
1. **Prepare the crust**: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a medium bowl, mix the crushed chocolate cookies with the melted butter until combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even crust layer. Bake for 10 minutes and let it cool after.
2. **Make the filling**: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and peanut butter together with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy—about 2-3 minutes will do.
3. **Add sugar and vanilla**: Gradually blend in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until combined, and remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
4. **Incorporate eggs and sour cream**: Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low until just combined after each addition. Lastly, stir in the sour cream until the mixture is smooth.
5. **Pour and bake**: Pour the filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Bake for 45-55 minutes or until the center is slightly set but still jiggly. Then, turn the oven off, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
6. **Chill and top**: Once cooled, cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. When it’s chilled, remove from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving plate. Sprinkle with the crumbled Butterfinger candy.
7. **Serve**: Slice it up, and don’t forget to add a dollop of whipped cream on top for that extra touch of yum!
Sweet Tips and Variations
– Feeling adventurous? Drizzle some melted chocolate over the top right before serving for an extra layer of chocolatey goodness.
– This cheesecake can be made up to two days in advance, making it a lifesaver for special occasions—just keep it stored in the fridge.
– Letting the cheesecake sit out for about 30 minutes before slicing will help with the flavors and texture. Trust me; you’ll thank yourself!
So there you have it, my friends! Make this **Creamy Luscious Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake** and treat yourself to a slice (or two!) of decadent delight. I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you – happy baking!
