Name: Creamy Loaded Butterscotch Cheesecake to Sweeten Your Day
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 95 min
Total time: 185 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Graham Cracker Crumbs (Use gluten-free crumbs for a gluten-free option.); 1/4 cup Light Brown Sugar (Adds sweetness and caramel flavor.); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Must be melted for easy mixing.); 24 oz Cream Cheese (At room temperature.); 1 cup Sour Cream (Enhances creaminess.); 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream (Boosts richness.); 1 cup Butterscotch Chips (Melting some helps with incorporation.); 1 pkg Dry Butterscotch Pudding Mix (Thickens and intensifies flavor.); 3 large Eggs (Room temperature for better blending.); 1/2 cup Additional Butterscotch Chips (For decoration.); 1/4 cup Heavy Whipping Cream (Used with butterscotch chips for ganache.)

Walking through a quaint bakery, the aroma of caramelized butterscotch wafts through the air, drawing me in like a moth to a flame. That sweet temptation inspired me to create this Loaded Butterscotch Cheesecake, a creamy dessert that’s equal parts indulgent and delightful. With a buttery graham cracker crust cradling a luscious, butterscotch-infused filling, it’s the kind of treat that makes special occasions even sweeter—or simply enhances a cozy night in. What’s more, it’s a showstopper that requires surprisingly little effort. Whip it up to impress guests or enjoy it on a quiet evening, knowing you have a slice of happiness waiting for you in the fridge. Can you resist the siren call of this decadent cheesecake?

Why is Butterscotch Cheesecake a Must-Try?

Indulgent flavors await you in this Loaded Butterscotch Cheesecake, with its rich, creamy filling that melts in your mouth. Effortless to make, this dessert elevates any gathering without requiring culinary expertise. Versatile enough for any season, it provides a sweet escape from ordinary desserts. Showstopping in appearance, it will wow your guests and leave them wanting more. For additional inspiration, try our Strawberry Cheesecake Bars or the delightful Cookies Cream Cheesecake. Each slice is a reminder that dessert can be both simple and extraordinary!

Loaded Butterscotch Cheesecake Ingredients

• This creamy dessert is a delight to prepare!

For the Crust

Graham Cracker Crumbs – Forms the base structure and crunch of the cheesecake; use gluten-free crumbs for a gluten-free option.
Light Brown Sugar – Adds a lovely sweetness and caramel flavor to the crust.
Unsalted Butter – Binds the crust together perfectly; ensure it’s melted for easy mixing.

For the Filling

Cream Cheese – The heart of your cheesecake, providing a smooth and creamy texture; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy blending.
Sour Cream – Enhances the creaminess and adds a subtle tang to the filling.
Heavy Whipping Cream – Boosts the richness of the filling and helps achieve that luscious ganache topping.
Butterscotch Chips – Infuses the filling with bold butterscotch flavor; feel free to melt some for easier incorporation.
Dry Butterscotch Pudding Mix – Thickens the filling and intensifies the butterscotch taste, making it truly loaded!
Eggs – Provides essential structure; using room temperature eggs helps them blend seamlessly into the batter.
Additional Butterscotch Chips – These are for decoration, adding a delightful visual appeal to your cheesecake.

For the Ganache

Heavy Whipping Cream (for ganache) – Used to create a silky, glossy finish for the cheesecake’s topping; melt with butterscotch chips for the best results.

Get your ingredients ready and prepare for a baking adventure that will fill your kitchen with warmth and sweetness!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Loaded Butterscotch Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, light brown sugar, and melted unsalted butter until the mixture looks like wet sand. Firmly press this blend into the bottom and halfway up the sides of a springform pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes until lightly golden, then set it aside to cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Filling
Lower the oven temperature to 300°F (148°C). In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually mix in the brown sugar and a bit of flour until fully incorporated. Then, add the sour cream, heavy whipping cream, and vanilla extract. Melt the butterscotch chips gently and stir them into the batter. Finally, incorporate the dry butterscotch pudding mix and eggs one at a time until the mixture is homogenous.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Wrap the springform pan tightly in aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in. Pour the creamy butterscotch cheesecake batter into the cooled crust, ensuring an even layer. Place the pan in a larger baking dish filled with hot water to create a gentle water bath. Bake for 1 hour and 35 minutes, watching for the edges to be set with a slight jiggle remaining in the center.

Step 4: Cooling
After baking, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for an additional 30 minutes while the residual heat cools it down gently. Gradually crack the oven door and let the cheesecake cool for another 30 minutes. Once cooled, transfer it to room temperature for 1 hour before refrigerating.

Step 5: Add the Topping
Chill the Loaded Butterscotch Cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 5-6 hours or ideally overnight to set completely. To prepare the ganache, melt additional butterscotch chips with heavy whipping cream over low heat until smooth. Pour the ganache over the cheesecake, allowing it to drizzle down the sides, and sprinkle with extra butterscotch chips for a delightful finishing touch. Refrigerate for another 30 minutes to let the ganache set.

How to Store and Freeze Loaded Butterscotch Cheesecake

Fridge: Store leftover Loaded Butterscotch Cheesecake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This helps maintain its creamy texture and rich flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cheesecake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the cheesecake overnight in the fridge for the best results. This keeps the texture smooth and creamy.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat, but you can serve slices at room temperature for the perfect bite!

Make Ahead Options

These Loaded Butterscotch Cheesecake is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can make the crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply prepare the crust as directed, and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to ensure it doesn’t dry out. Additionally, you can mix the filling ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. On the day you’re ready to serve, pour the filling into the prepared crust, bake as instructed, and don’t forget to chill the cheesecake overnight after baking for the best flavor. Trust me, this cheesecake will be just as delicious and a real treat waiting for you after a hectic day!

Loaded Butterscotch Cheesecake Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor this Loaded Butterscotch Cheesecake recipe to your taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or nut-based crust for a gluten-free delight.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or almonds to the crust for an added crunch and depth of flavor.
Chocolate Delight: Incorporate melted chocolate into the filling for a rich chocolate-butterscotch fusion that’s utterly divine.
Fruit Swirl: Add a fruit puree, like raspberry or cherry, to the filling for a tangy contrast to the sweetness of butterscotch.
Spiced Up: Include a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling for a warm, cozy flavor enhancement.
Caramel Drizzle: Replace the ganache with a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce for a different but equally indulgent finish.
Lighter Option: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version that still packs creaminess.
Savory Twist: Introduce a hint of sea salt in the ganache to create a delightful sweet and salty combination reminiscent of salty butterscotch treats.

Experimenting with these variations will lead you to a unique cheesecake experience each time! For more inspiration, don’t miss checking out our Greek Style Loaded recipes or explore the delightful layers of our Strawberry Cheesecake Bars. There’s no limit to what you can create!

Expert Tips for Your Loaded Butterscotch Cheesecake

Water Bath Essential: Using a water bath during baking helps prevent cracks and ensures a silky, creamy texture for your Loaded Butterscotch Cheesecake.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all your dairy ingredients, especially cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature for smooth blending. Cold ingredients can cause lumps.
Cool Gradually: After baking, allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door cracked open, preventing sudden temperature changes that can lead to cracks.
Slicing Techniques: For cleaner slices, dip your knife in hot water before cutting, and wipe it clean between each cut. This keeps the presentation pristine.
Make Ahead: Consider making your Loaded Butterscotch Cheesecake a day in advance. It only gets better as it sits, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

What to Serve with Loaded Butterscotch Cheesecake

Delight your guests with a thoughtfully crafted meal that complements the rich, creamy flavors of this decadent cheesecake.

Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries and blueberries adds a burst of tartness that balances the sweetness of the cheesecake beautifully.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream enhances the luscious texture and rounds out the indulgence.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle a warm caramel sauce over each slice to intensify the butterscotch flavor while offering a delightful contrast.
Mini Cheesecake Bites: For a fun dessert trio, pair your cheesecake with an assortment of mini cheesecakes in various flavors, letting everyone choose their favorite.
Espresso or Coffee: A rich cup of coffee or a shot of espresso provides a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cheesecake, becoming the perfect finishing touch.
Chocolate Ganache Tart: Serve alongside slices of a bittersweet chocolate ganache tart for guests who appreciate a variety of decadent desserts.
Chocolate-Dipped Fruit: Fresh fruit dipped in dark chocolate creates a rich and refreshing pairing, balancing the creaminess of the cheesecake.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla bean or even butter pecan ice cream brings an extra layer of decadence that complements the butterscotch tones.
Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti adds an elegant textural contrast, perfect for dipping into coffee or enjoying on its own.

Loaded Butterscotch Cheesecake Recipe FAQs

What kind of graham cracker crumbs should I use for the crust?
You can use regular or gluten-free graham cracker crumbs, depending on your dietary needs. Just make sure to check the package to ensure they’re the right size—coarse crumbs might make your crust crumble easily, while fine crumbs will hold together better!

How should I store my Loaded Butterscotch Cheesecake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keeping it sealed will help maintain its creamy texture and delicious flavor. For a longer storage option, you can freeze it.

Can I freeze my Loaded Butterscotch Cheesecake?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap your cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap, then wrap it again in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.

What should I do if my cheesecake cracks while baking?
Don’t worry if this happens! Cracks in cheesecake can occur if the temperature fluctuates too quickly. To avoid this, always use a water bath and allow your cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven after baking. If you have a crack, cover it with your ganache for a delicious distraction!

Can my Loaded Butterscotch Cheesecake be made dairy-free?
While this recipe relies on dairy ingredients, you could try substituting with dairy-free cream cheese and heavy cream alternatives. The texture and flavor might slightly differ, but it could still yield a tasty cheesecake! Just check the packaging for appropriate substitutions.