I just made this butterscotch cheesecake with buttery crumble and I’m pretty sure I’ve reached peak dessert perfection because this thing is absolutely unreal!
I was craving something rich and indulgent but wanted to try something different from the usual vanilla or chocolate cheesecake, so when I spotted butterscotch chips in my pantry, I knew I had to go for it.
The cheesecake itself is so incredibly creamy with that deep, caramel-y butterscotch flavor, but that buttery crumble on top adds this amazing textural contrast that makes every bite feel like pure luxury!
I just cut my first slice and honestly, the combination of smooth, rich filling with that crunchy, golden topping is making me question every other dessert I’ve ever made.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This butterscotch cheesecake with buttery crumble is the perfect showstopper dessert that combines rich, creamy cheesecake with unique butterscotch flavor that’s so much more interesting than regular vanilla!
The buttery crumble topping adds incredible texture and extra indulgence, creating this amazing contrast between smooth and crunchy that makes every bite absolutely divine.
You’ll love how impressive it looks and tastes – perfect for special occasions or when you want to create something truly memorable for dessert lovers in your life.
Plus, butterscotch gives it this warm, comforting flavor that feels cozy and nostalgic but still elegant enough for entertaining, and that crumble topping makes it look like something straight from a fancy bakery!
What You’ll Need
For the crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup butterscotch sauce (plus extra for topping)
For the crumble topping
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- Pinch of salt
Pro Tips
- Use room temperature cream cheese. It blends smoother and avoids lumps.
- Don’t overmix. Mix just until combined to prevent excess air (and cracks).
- Cool slowly. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door cracked to prevent sinking.
- Make the crumble chunky. Use your fingers to create big and small clumps for texture.
- Chill overnight. Cheesecake flavor deepens and texture improves after a night in the fridge.
Tools You’ll Need
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Substitutions and Variations
- Crust: Swap graham crackers for gingersnaps or vanilla wafers.
- Topping: Add chopped pecans or toffee bits to the crumble.
- Sauce: Use caramel sauce if you don’t have butterscotch.
- Dairy-free option: Use vegan cream cheese and coconut cream.
- Mini cheesecakes: Make in muffin tins for individual portions.
Make-Ahead Tips
- The cheesecake can be baked up to 2 days ahead. Store covered in the fridge until ready to serve.
- Butterscotch sauce can be made (or bought) and kept in the fridge for a week. Warm slightly before drizzling.
- The crumble can be baked separately and stored in an airtight container for 3 days. Sprinkle on before serving if you prefer it extra crisp.
- Cheesecake also freezes beautifully—just leave off the crumble until after thawing.
How to Make Butterscotch Cheesecake with Buttery Crumble
Step 1: Make the crust
Preheat oven to 325°F. Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the filling
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and brown sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined. Stir in sour cream, heavy cream, vanilla, and butterscotch sauce.
Step 3: Bake the cheesecake
Pour filling over crust. Bake for 50–55 minutes, until edges are set but center still jiggles slightly.
Step 4: Make the crumble
In a bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, and salt. Cut in cold butter with your fingers or a pastry cutter until crumbly. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes until golden.
Step 5: Cool and assemble
Cool cheesecake gradually, then chill in the fridge at least 4 hours or overnight. Top with buttery crumble and drizzle with extra butterscotch sauce before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled with an extra drizzle of butterscotch sauce.
- Pair with coffee or a glass of milk.
- Garnish with whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to balance the sweetness.
Leftovers & Storage
- Fridge: Store covered for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze slices tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Crumble topping: If you want it extra crisp, add fresh crumble just before serving.
Nutrition & Benefits
This cheesecake is definitely a dessert splurge, but it’s worth every bite. The cream cheese brings protein and calcium, while the butterscotch adds that irresistible sweet depth.
The crumble topping makes each slice satisfying and texturally fun. It’s the kind of dessert that reminds you that treats are meant to be savored and shared.
Recipe FAQ
1. Can I use store-bought butterscotch sauce?Â
Yes—it works perfectly if you don’t want to make your own.
2. Can I skip the crumble topping?Â
You can, but the buttery crunch makes this cheesecake extra special.
3. Do I need a water bath?Â
No—the crumble topping helps cover any cracks, so it’s more forgiving than traditional cheesecakes.
4. How do I know when it’s done?Â
The edges should be set, and the center should still jiggle slightly—it will firm up as it cools.
5. Can I freeze the whole cheesecake?Â
Yes—just wrap tightly without the crumble topping, then thaw overnight before serving.
6. Can I make this in advance for a party?Â
Absolutely—it tastes even better after resting overnight in the fridge.
7. Can I use white sugar instead of brown?Â
Brown sugar adds depth and caramel notes, but white sugar can work in a pinch.
Creamy, Buttery, and Irresistible
This butterscotch cheesecake with buttery crumble is one of those desserts that feels like a showstopper without being overly complicated.
The creamy filling, rich butterscotch, and crunchy topping make it a dessert you’ll come back to again and again.
Whether you bake it for a holiday, a birthday, or just to treat yourself, every slice feels indulgent and special.