Rich, creamy, and decadently sweet—this cheesecake is layered with buttery graham cracker crust, a luscious butterscotch-infused filling, and finished with a silky butterscotch ganache.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Indulgent butterscotch flavor packed into every bite
Creamy, smooth texture with a perfect balance of sweetness
Buttery graham cracker crust adds a satisfying crunch
Silky ganache topping makes it feel like a bakery-quality dessert
Make-ahead friendly—ideal for special occasions or casual treats

Ingredients

Crust

1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
7 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Filling

24 oz cream cheese, room temperature
3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1 cup butterscotch chips
1 (3.4 oz) package dry butterscotch pudding mix
4 large eggs, room temperature

Topping

1 cup butterscotch chips
4 1/2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
Additional butterscotch chips, for garnish

Directions

Prep Time: 45 minutes
Baking Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Chill Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 525 kcal per serving

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides.

2. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.

3. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom and halfway up the sides of the pan.

4. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from oven and reduce temperature to 300°F (148°C).

5. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy.

6. Add brown sugar and flour, mixing until combined.

7. Stir in vanilla extract.

8. Add sour cream and heavy whipping cream; mix until smooth.

9. Melt butterscotch chips in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.

10. Fold melted butterscotch chips into the batter until evenly combined.

11. Add dry butterscotch pudding mix and blend well.

12. Add eggs one at a time, mixing slowly after each addition.

13. Wrap the outside of the springform pan with aluminum foil and place it in a larger roasting pan.

14. Pour cheesecake batter into the crust and smooth the top.

15. Fill the roasting pan with warm water halfway up the sides of the springform pan to create a water bath.

16. Bake for 1 hour 35 minutes until edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.

17. Turn off oven, close the door, and let cheesecake rest inside for 30 minutes.

18. Crack the oven door open and let it rest for another 30 minutes.

19. Remove cheesecake and water bath; cool at room temperature for 1 hour.

20. Refrigerate for at least 5–6 hours or overnight until fully set.

21. For the topping, heat heavy cream until just simmering.

22. Pour over butterscotch chips in a bowl; let sit 1–2 minutes, then stir until smooth.

23. Pour ganache over the chilled cheesecake and garnish with extra butterscotch chips.

Serving Ideas

Serve chilled with a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Pair with a cup of coffee or a dessert wine for a perfect after-dinner treat.
Add whipped cream or fresh berries for a colorful contrast.

Tips & Variations

Use room temperature ingredients for the smoothest filling.
Substitute the graham cracker crust with gingersnap or chocolate cookie crumbs for a twist.
Add a pinch of sea salt to the ganache for a salted butterscotch flavor.
Make mini cheesecakes in muffin tins for individual servings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best made a day in advance and stored in the fridge to allow flavors to meld.

Is the water bath necessary?
The water bath helps prevent cracks and ensures even baking but can be skipped if careful.

Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

What if I don’t have butterscotch pudding mix?
You can omit it, but it helps add flavor and firmness to the filling.

Final Thoughts

Loaded Butterscotch Cheesecake is a luscious dessert that elevates any occasion. Its creamy texture, rich butterscotch taste, and elegant ganache topping make it a crowd-pleaser whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night in. With easy prep and make-ahead convenience, it’s a dessert you’ll want to keep in your recipe rotation.