Delicious Candy Bar Cheesecake Recipe

Introduction

At Love With Recipes, we believe that dessert should be an experience that tantalizes the senses and brings joy to every occasion. The Candy Bar Cheesecake embodies this philosophy perfectly. Combining the smooth, velvety texture of classic cheesecake with the rich, caramel, chocolate, and nutty flavors of beloved candy bars, this decadent dessert is a celebration of indulgence. Whether you’re preparing for a birthday, a holiday gathering, or simply craving something sweet, this cheesecake promises to impress with its luscious layers and irresistible topping.

This recipe is designed to be approachable yet impressive, balancing simplicity with indulgent flavors. The crust offers a crunchy base infused with peanuts, echoing the crunchy, nutty elements of candy bars, while the creamy filling provides a silky contrast. The pièce de résistance is the homemade candy bar sauce, crafted from melted Snickers bars, which adds a gooey, chocolatey richness that ties all flavors together. With a prep time of approximately 15 minutes and a total time of around 1 hour and 30 minutes, this cheesecake is perfect for those who want a spectacular dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.

As always, Love With Recipes is committed to delivering detailed, high-quality culinary content. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, offer useful tips, suggest variations, and provide all the information necessary to craft a dessert that will be the star of any table.

Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Needed Equipment

• 9-inch springform pan
• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Electric hand or stand mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Food processor or blender (for crust, optional)
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Cooling rack
• Plastic wrap or aluminum foil
• Offset spatula or butter knife (for spreading)
• Knife (for slicing and serving)
• Serving platter or cake stand

Tags

#Dessert #Cheesecake #CandyBar #Chocolate #Nutty #Decadent #SweetTreats #Indulgence #NoBakeOption #PartyFavorite

Serving Size

Serves approximately 16 slices, depending on portion size.

Difficulty Level

Moderate. This recipe requires some baking and assembly skills, but it is accessible for home bakers with basic culinary experience.

Allergen Information

• Contains dairy (cream cheese, heavy whipping cream, margarine/butter)
• Contains nuts (peanuts)
• Contains gluten (if using traditional cookie crumbs or wafers)
• Contains eggs

Dietary Preference

Not suitable for vegan or dairy-free diets without modifications. For gluten-free options, substitute gluten-free cookies or wafers in the crust.

Course

Dessert

Cuisine

American / Western

Ingredients

Crust Ingredients

Cheesecake Filling Ingredients

Candy Bar Sauce Ingredients

Instructions

1. Preparing the Crust

Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This ensures that when your crust is assembled, it bakes evenly and adheres well. To prepare the crust, gather your crushed chocolate wafers or graham cracker crumbs, chopped peanuts, and melted margarine or butter. Using a mixing bowl, combine these ingredients thoroughly with a rubber spatula or wooden spoon until the mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when pressed.

For a more robust nutty flavor and texture, consider lightly toasting the peanuts beforehand. Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes until fragrant, then chop and add to the mixture. This step enhances flavor and adds depth to your crust.

Pressing the Crust

Transfer the mixture into a 9-inch springform pan. Using the back of a measuring cup or your fingers, evenly press the mixture onto the bottom of the pan, creating a firm, compact layer. Make sure to press firmly to prevent crumbling during baking or slicing. If you prefer a thicker crust, you can increase the amount of crumbs slightly.

Once pressed, bake the crust for 10 minutes to set it, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

2. Making the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes. Gradually add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, beating continuously until well incorporated and the mixture is silky and free of lumps, about 6-7 minutes.

Scraping down the sides of the bowl periodically ensures uniform mixing. The sugar aids in achieving a smooth, creamy texture, while the softened cream cheese prevents lumps.

Adding Eggs

One at a time, add the eggs to the mixture, beating well after each addition. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth batter that bakes evenly. Do not overmix after adding the eggs; just mix until fully incorporated to avoid incorporating excess air, which can cause cracks during baking.

Incorporating Vanilla and Cream

Add vanilla extract and 3/4 cup of heavy whipping cream to the batter. Mix on low speed until combined. The cream adds richness and helps achieve a luscious, silky consistency. For an even creamier texture, you can fold in additional whipped cream after the initial mixing.

Pouring the Filling

Pour the prepared filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with an offset spatula or a butter knife. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.

3. Baking the Cheesecake

Place the springform pan on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake at 325°F (165°C) for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. The cheesecake is done when the edges are set and slightly puffed, with the center still a little jiggly but not liquid.

To prevent cracks, avoid opening the oven door during the first hour of baking. If cracks do appear, they can be concealed with the candy bar sauce or whipped cream.

Cooling Process

Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 15 minutes. This gradual cooling helps prevent surface cracks caused by sudden temperature changes. Afterward, carefully remove the cheesecake from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely at room temperature.

Once cooled, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld, and the cheesecake to firm up for perfect slicing.

4. Preparing the Candy Bar Sauce

While the cheesecake chills, prepare the decadent sauce. In a saucepan over low heat, combine the chopped Snickers bars and heavy whipping cream. Melt slowly, stirring frequently to create a smooth, glossy caramel-chocolate mixture. This process takes about 5-7 minutes. Be patient; the sauce should be thick and pourable but not overly runny.

Once melted, remove from heat and let it cool slightly. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a little additional cream or warm it gently before serving.

5. Assembling and Serving

When ready to serve, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan. Transfer the cheesecake to a serving platter. Drizzle the warm candy bar sauce generously over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides. For presentation, you can garnish with chopped peanuts, chocolate shavings, or additional candy bits.

Slice with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat servings. Serve immediately, accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

Preparation Tips

• Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for smooth mixing.
• For a crust with added flavor, consider mixing in a tablespoon of cocoa powder or a pinch of salt.
• Use high-quality chocolate bars for the sauce to ensure a rich flavor.
• If you prefer a no-bake version, you can chill the crust and filling without baking, but it will require additional refrigeration time.
• For a more decadent experience, garnish with additional crushed candy bars or drizzle with melted chocolate.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• For extra richness, fold in some whipped cream into the cheesecake batter before baking.
• To prevent cracks, bake in a water bath by placing the springform pan inside a larger pan filled with hot water. This provides gentle, even heat.
• If you notice cracks forming during baking, they can be smoothed out with a thin layer of warm chocolate ganache or sauce.
• Chill the cheesecake thoroughly; overnight chilling yields the best flavor and texture.
• For a festive touch, decorate with seasonal toppings like sprinkles, edible gold, or holiday-themed candies.

Add-ons and Variations

• Replace Snickers with Milky Way or Twix bars for different flavor profiles.
• Add a layer of caramel sauce beneath the candy bar sauce for extra gooeyness.
• Incorporate crushed cookies into the filling for added texture.
• Use a gluten-free crust by substituting gluten-free cookies or wafers.
• For a healthier twist, reduce the sugar or use alternative sweeteners, though it will alter the flavor profile.

Side Dishes

This rich cheesecake pairs beautifully with:

• Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
• Vanilla or caramel ice cream
• Whipped cream with a hint of vanilla
• Chocolate sauce or caramel drizzle

Improvements and Customizations

• For a more pronounced nutty flavor, toast the peanuts longer or add a sprinkle of sea salt on top.
• Incorporate different candies into the sauce, such as Reese’s cups or M&Ms, for variety.
• Use dark chocolate bars for a more intense chocolate flavor in the sauce.
• Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or coconut to add a unique twist.

Save and Store

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or foil. For longer storage, you can freeze slices wrapped individually in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

FAQ

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, preparing it a day in advance allows flavors to meld and enhances the overall texture. Just ensure it is well wrapped and refrigerated.

Can I use store-bought caramel or chocolate sauce instead of homemade?

Absolutely. While homemade sauce from melted candy bars offers a more authentic flavor, high-quality store-bought sauces work well and save time.

Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?

Yes, substitute gluten-free cookies or wafers for the traditional crust ingredients. Be sure to check labels to confirm gluten-free status.

What can I do to prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Baking in a water bath, avoiding overmixing, and not opening the oven during baking are key strategies. Cooling gradually in the oven also helps.

Conclusion

The Candy Bar Cheesecake is an indulgent, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines the best of creamy cheesecake and decadent candy flavors. Its rich texture, luscious topping, and customizable variations make it a versatile choice for any celebration or special moment. Remember, patience in baking and chilling ensures a flawless presentation and delightful eating experience. At Love With Recipes, we hope this detailed guide inspires you to craft a dessert that will become a treasured favorite and create unforgettable memories around the table.

References

• Williams Sonoma. “Cheesecake Techniques,” 2020.
• Food Network. “The Best Cheesecake Recipes,” 2021.