Reese’s Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars are a delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake, rich chocolate ganache, and the irresistible crunch of Reese’s peanut butter cups and Butterfinger bars. Inspired by two iconic American candies, this dessert combines nostalgia with indulgence, creating a treat that feels both classic and exciting.
There’s something magical about blending favorite candy bars into a smooth cheesecake base. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the crunchy peanut butter and crisp candy layers, while the silky ganache on top adds a luxurious finish. These bars are perfect for birthdays, holiday dessert tables, potlucks, or whenever you want to surprise guests with something extra special.
The balance of flavors is what truly makes this recipe shine. Sweet cream cheese pairs perfectly with chocolate and peanut butter, while the crust provides a buttery foundation that holds everything together. Each bite delivers creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey goodness all at once.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
To prepare this comforting Reese’s Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars, you’ll need:
For the crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup sugar
1/3 cup melted butter
For the filling:
2 cups cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1/2 cup chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups
1/2 cup chopped Butterfinger bars
For the ganache:
1 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Optional substitutions:
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the crust.
Dairy-free: Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
How to Make Reese’s Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Reese’s Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars:
Prepare the Crust
Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. The mixture should resemble wet sand and hold together when pressed between your fingers.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined 8×8 inch baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even, compact layer.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool.
Pre-baking the crust helps it set and prevents it from becoming soggy once the cheesecake filling is added.
Make the Filling
Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the batter.
Add eggs one at a time, beating until just blended. Avoid overmixing once the eggs are added, as this can incorporate too much air and cause cracks during baking.
Fold in chopped Reese’s and Butterfinger pieces gently, distributing the candy evenly throughout the mixture.
Pour the filling over the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes or until set. The center should be slightly firm but may still have a small jiggle.
Remove from oven and cool to room temperature. Allowing the bars to cool gradually helps prevent cracking and ensures the cheesecake sets properly.
Prepare the Ganache
Heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer, then pour over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.
Let sit for 5 minutes to allow the chocolate to soften. Stir until smooth and glossy.
The ganache should be silky and pourable. If needed, stir gently until fully combined and lump-free.
Finish the Bars
Pour the ganache evenly over the cooled cheesecake layer. Spread gently to cover the entire surface.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set. Chilling is essential for clean slicing and the perfect creamy texture.
Once firm, lift the bars out using the parchment paper lining and cut into squares or rectangles.
Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Bars
- Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
- Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Chill thoroughly before cutting for neat edges.
- Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean slices.
Why You’ll Love These Bars
These Reese’s Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars offer the perfect combination of creamy cheesecake, crunchy candy pieces, and smooth chocolate ganache. They’re rich without being overwhelming and indulgent without feeling heavy.
Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a bake sale, or just a weekend treat, these bars are guaranteed to impress. Every bite delivers layers of flavor and texture that feel comforting and exciting at the same time.
If you love chocolate and peanut butter desserts, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. Enjoy every creamy, crunchy, chocolate-filled bite!
