A rich and indulgent dessert, this Snickers Cheesecake combines a creamy cheesecake filling with chunks of Snickers bars and a luscious chocolate ganache topping. It’s the perfect treat for candy bar lovers and special occasions.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

24 Oreo cookies
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
1½ cups chopped Snickers bars (about 12 fun-size bars)
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup caramel sauce
Additional chopped Snickers and caramel for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 325°F. Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment and grease the sides.
In a food processor, crush Oreos into fine crumbs. Combine with melted butter and press firmly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust.
Bake crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla, mixing until combined.
Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each until just incorporated.
Mix in sour cream, then fold in chopped Snickers.
Pour filling over the crust and smooth the top.
Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
Remove and cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
For ganache, heat heavy cream until just simmering. Pour over chocolate chips and let sit 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
Spread ganache over chilled cheesecake. Drizzle with caramel sauce and top with extra Snickers if desired.
Chill for 30 more minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 590
Total Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 125mg
Sodium: 320mg
Total Carbohydrates: 56g
Sugars: 42g
Protein: 7g

Origin of Snickers Cheesecake

Snickers cheesecake is a modern dessert that combines the creamy texture of cheesecake with the beloved flavors of the Snickers candy bar. The idea of incorporating candy bars into baked goods gained popularity in the late 20th century, and Snickers cheesecake became an indulgent twist on traditional cheesecake recipes. This dessert allows the salty-sweet combination of caramel, chocolate, and peanuts to shine through, while the cream cheese filling maintains the richness and smoothness that cheesecake lovers crave.

The Appeal of Snickers Bars

Snickers bars are widely loved for their irresistible combination of chocolate, caramel, peanuts, and nougat. This combination creates a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors, which has made Snickers one of the most popular candy bars in the world. The rich layers of caramel and chocolate add depth to the dessert, while the crunchy peanuts provide texture and contrast to the smooth cheesecake filling.

Why Cheesecake Is So Popular

Cheesecake is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries. Its popularity can be attributed to its rich, creamy texture and versatility. While the traditional New York-style cheesecake is the most well-known version, cheesecakes come in many variations and can be customized with different flavorings, crusts, and toppings. The decadent flavor of cheesecake makes it a perfect choice for special occasions or a sweet indulgence after a meal.

The Importance of the Crust

The crust of a cheesecake is an essential element that provides structure and a delightful crunch to balance the creamy filling. In this Snickers cheesecake recipe, the crust is made from crushed Oreo cookies, adding a layer of chocolate flavor to complement the rich filling. The cookies are held together with melted butter, which helps create a firm base that holds up well under the weight of the cheesecake.

The Role of Cream Cheese in Cheesecake

Cream cheese is the main ingredient in most cheesecake recipes, contributing to the dessert’s velvety texture. The high-fat content of cream cheese ensures that the filling is rich and smooth. In a Snickers cheesecake, the cream cheese is the base that binds the various layers of flavor together, allowing the Snickers bars to stand out while still maintaining the signature creaminess that defines a good cheesecake.

The Sweetness of Caramel

Caramel is a key flavor component in Snickers bars and is used in the ganache topping of this cheesecake. The sweet, slightly buttery flavor of caramel complements the rich chocolate and peanut notes. In addition to enhancing the flavor of the Snickers bars, the caramel sauce used in this recipe adds a glossy finish to the cheesecake, making it more visually appealing and even more indulgent.

Adding Texture with Snickers Bars

The Snickers bars in this recipe not only add flavor but also provide texture. Chopped Snickers bars are folded into the cheesecake filling, giving the dessert a delightful chewiness that contrasts with the smoothness of the cream cheese. The peanuts in the Snickers bars add a satisfying crunch, making each bite a perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and sweet.

The Ganache Topping

A ganache topping is often used in high-end cheesecakes for its rich, velvety texture and decadent taste. In this Snickers cheesecake, a simple ganache made from semisweet chocolate and heavy cream creates a luscious, glossy finish that perfectly complements the dessert’s sweet and salty flavors. The ganache adds another layer of chocolate richness that enhances the overall experience of eating the cheesecake.

The Role of Eggs in Cheesecake

Eggs play an important role in the structure of cheesecake. They help set the filling, giving it the firm, custard-like texture that is characteristic of a traditional cheesecake. The eggs in this recipe are beaten into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring that the filling will hold together while still remaining creamy and smooth. Properly incorporating the eggs helps prevent cracking during baking, ensuring a flawless dessert.

Baking the Cheesecake to Perfection

Baking a cheesecake requires a delicate balance of time and temperature. It is important to bake the cheesecake slowly at a low temperature to ensure that the filling sets without overcooking. Overbaking can lead to a dry or cracked cheesecake, so it’s crucial to check the cheesecake for doneness by gently shaking the pan. A slight jiggle in the center means it’s done. Allowing the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven also helps prevent cracking.

Chilling for the Perfect Texture

After baking, it’s important to chill the cheesecake for several hours to allow it to fully set. This chilling period helps the flavors meld together and ensures that the texture becomes firm enough to slice cleanly. Refrigerating the cheesecake also enhances its flavor, as the ingredients have more time to develop. It’s ideal to let the cheesecake rest in the fridge overnight for the best results.

Presentation and Garnishing

Presentation plays a large role in the enjoyment of any dessert. The visual appeal of a Snickers cheesecake can be enhanced with careful garnishing. After topping the cheesecake with ganache, you can drizzle extra caramel sauce and sprinkle chopped Snickers bars on top for an eye-catching finish. This not only makes the dessert more attractive but also adds extra flavor and texture that elevates the overall experience.

Customizing the Recipe

While this Snickers cheesecake recipe is delicious as is, there are several ways to customize it to suit different tastes or dietary preferences. For example, you can substitute the Oreo crust with a graham cracker crust or even a gluten-free option. If you prefer a different candy bar, you can replace Snickers with other choices, such as Milky Way or Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, for a unique twist on the recipe.

Snickers Cheesecake for Special Occasions

Snickers cheesecake is an ideal dessert for special occasions. Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or family gathering, this indulgent treat is sure to impress guests. Its rich flavors and luxurious texture make it a fitting choice for celebrations, and the combination of chocolate, caramel, and peanuts ensures that it will be a crowd-pleaser.

Pairing Snickers Cheesecake with Drinks

The rich, sweet flavors of Snickers cheesecake pair well with a variety of beverages. Coffee is a popular choice, as its slight bitterness complements the sweetness of the dessert. For something more decadent, you can serve the cheesecake with a glass of dessert wine, such as port or a sweet Riesling. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a rich hot chocolate or iced coffee would also make an excellent pairing.

The History of Cheesecake in American Cuisine

Cheesecake has a long history in American cuisine, with its origins dating back to the early 20th century. The modern version of cheesecake, often made with cream cheese, became popular in New York in the 1920s. Over time, variations emerged, with different regions adding their own twists, such as using different crusts or flavorings. The creation of Snickers cheesecake is part of a broader trend of incorporating candy bars and other sweets into traditional desserts to create indulgent treats that satisfy a variety of tastes.

The Importance of Room Temperature Ingredients

Using room temperature ingredients, especially cream cheese and eggs, is key to achieving a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to become lumpy, while room temperature ingredients blend more easily. Make sure to set your cream cheese and eggs out ahead of time to ensure they are properly softened before mixing.

Preventing Cracks in Your Cheesecake

One of the most common issues when making cheesecake is the development of cracks on the surface. Cracking can occur if the cheesecake is baked at too high a temperature or if it is overbaked. To prevent cracks, bake the cheesecake at a low temperature and allow it to cool slowly. Additionally, make sure to avoid opening the oven door too frequently, as sudden temperature changes can cause cracks.

Storing Snickers Cheesecake

To preserve the freshness of your Snickers cheesecake, store it in the refrigerator. Keep it in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. Cheesecake can typically be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you have leftover cheesecake, you can also freeze it for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

Conclusion

Snickers cheesecake is a rich and satisfying dessert that combines the best of both worlds: the creamy texture of cheesecake and the irresistible flavors of a Snickers candy bar. It’s a perfect dessert for any occasion, offering a balance of sweetness, texture, and indulgence. With its layers of chocolate, caramel, and peanuts, this cheesecake is sure to become a favorite in any dessert repertoire. Whether you’re making it for a celebration or a simple indulgence, it’s a treat that promises to impress.

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