Name: Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks; 4 Butterfinger candy bars, crushed; Whipped cream for garnish (optional)

I make these Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars whenever I want a rich, no-bake dessert that feels indulgent without turning on the oven. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a silky caramel cream cheese filling, and a crunchy Butterfinger topping, every bite is smooth, sweet, and packed with texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy these bars are to prepare with zero baking required. The caramel blends beautifully into the cream cheese, creating a smooth and creamy layer that contrasts perfectly with the crunchy Butterfinger topping. I also appreciate how simple ingredients come together to create a dessert that looks impressive enough for parties, potlucks, and holiday gatherings. The make-ahead convenience makes this one of my favorite stress-free treats.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

½ cup granulated sugar

8 oz cream cheese, softened

½ cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling

½ cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks

4 Butterfinger candy bars, crushed

Whipped cream for garnish (optional)

Directions

I start by combining the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl until everything is evenly mixed. Then I press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a parchment-lined 8×8-inch pan and refrigerate it while I prepare the filling.

In a large mixing bowl, I beat the softened cream cheese, caramel sauce, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.

Next, I gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, making sure to keep the texture light and airy.

I spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

After that, I sprinkle the crushed Butterfinger candy bars evenly over the filling and press them in slightly. If I want extra richness, I drizzle more caramel sauce over the top.

Finally, I refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours, or until fully set and firm. Once chilled, I slice them into bars, add whipped cream if desired, and serve them cold.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)

Servings: 12 servings

Calories: Approximately 420 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes swap the Butterfinger topping for crushed chocolate sandwich cookies or chopped peanut butter cups for a different flavor twist. When I want extra caramel flavor, I mix small caramel bits directly into the filling. For a chocolate version, I add melted semi-sweet chocolate to the cream cheese mixture. I also like using a chocolate graham cracker crust to deepen the overall flavor.

Storage/Reheating

I store these cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, I freeze them in a tightly wrapped container for up to 2 months and thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Since this is a no-bake dessert, I do not reheat it. I always serve it chilled for the best texture.

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FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare them a day in advance. I find that chilling overnight actually improves the texture and flavor.

Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of fresh whipped cream?

I can substitute whipped topping if I want convenience, though I prefer freshly whipped cream for better flavor and texture.

How do I know when the bars are fully set?

I check that the center feels firm to the touch and does not jiggle when I gently shake the pan.

Can I use a different size pan?

I can use a 9×9-inch pan for slightly thinner bars, but I keep in mind that the thickness and setting time may vary slightly.

Do these bars need to stay refrigerated?

Yes, because of the cream cheese and whipped cream, I always keep them refrigerated until ready to serve.

Conclusion

I find these Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars to be the perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and sweet. The no-bake preparation makes them simple, while the caramel and candy topping make them unforgettable. Whenever I need a crowd-pleasing dessert that feels both easy and indulgent, this is the recipe I turn to every time.

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