Ingredients

1½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs

¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar

6 tablespoons (85g) butter, melted

16 oz (454g) full-fat cream cheese, softened

½ cup (100g) granulated sugar

2 large eggs

½ cup (120g) full-fat plain Greek yogurt (or full-fat sour cream)

1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract

2 tablespoons (16g) all-purpose flour

1 cup (150g) chopped Butterfinger candy bars, divided

½ cup (160g) caramel sauce, plus more for drizzling

½ cup (85g) semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and ¼ cup granulated sugar. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8 minutes, then remove and let cool slightly.

Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and ½ cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until combined after each addition.

Step 4: Mix in the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), vanilla extract, and flour until smooth. Fold in 1 cup of the chopped Butterfinger candy bars gently.

Step 5: Pour the cheesecake batter evenly over the pre-baked crust and smooth the top. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Let cool completely at room temperature.

Step 6: Once cooled, spread the caramel sauce evenly over the cheesecake layer. Sprinkle the remaining chopped Butterfinger candy bars over the caramel and gently press them in to adhere.

Step 7: If desired, drizzle melted semi-sweet chocolate over the top for extra richness.

Step 8: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully set. Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars from the pan. Slice into 16 squares, wiping the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.

Tips & Variations

For a tangier flavor, substitute sour cream for Greek yogurt.

Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the batter.

Use fresh caramel sauce for a richer topping, or substitute with dulce de leche for a twist.

Chocolate drizzle is optional but adds an elegant finish and complements the Butterfinger candy beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use a different candy bar instead of Butterfinger?

Yes, you can substitute with other crunchy candy bars like Heath or Twix for a similar texture and flavor.

Do I need to use full-fat dairy products?

Full-fat cream cheese and yogurt or sour cream help achieve the best creamy texture and flavor in the cheesecake. Low-fat versions might change the texture and moisture content.