If you’re looking to impress at your next gathering, let me introduce you to the star of your dessert table: Loaded Butterscotch Cheesecake. Each glorious forkful is a celebration of creamy, tangy cheesecake swirled with ribbons of golden butterscotch, all nestled atop a buttery cookie crust. This is a showstopper that comfortably yields 12 servings 1x, so everyone at the table can have a generous slice (and likely request seconds!). Whether you’re honoring a holiday or simply craving a sweet treat, this memorable creation will earn swoons and smiles every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients are all you need for this luxurious treat—each one playing a crucial role in the final dessert’s texture, flavor, or appearance. Don’t skip or substitute them if you want the full Loaded Butterscotch Cheesecake experience with those irresistible 12 servings 1x!

Graham cracker crumbs or digestive biscuits: The base of your crust, providing that welcome crunch and gentle sweetness.
Unsalted butter: Melted to bind the crust, ensuring it holds together with every slice.
Brown sugar: Adds caramel notes and moisture to the crust.
Cream cheese: The star of the filling, so make sure it’s softened for the creamiest texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake and balances the tang from the cream cheese.
Large eggs: Create structure and a silky finish in every bite.
Sour cream: Adds luscious tang and keeps the cheesecake moist.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a fragrant warmth.
Butterscotch sauce: Both mixed into and swirled through the batter for layers of toasty, buttery flavor.
Whipped cream: Clouds of this dreamy topping make each slice extra celebratory.
Crushed cookies or biscuits: For a beautiful finish and a little crunch in every bite.

How to Make 12 servings 1x

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Kick things off by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line the outside of a 9-inch springform pan with foil. This step is absolutely key—it helps prevent water from seeping into your cheesecake during baking and guarantees those perfect 12 servings 1x come out just right.

Step 2: Make the Crust

Mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar until everything looks like sandy magic. Press this mixture snugly into the pan’s base, ensuring an even layer. Slide it into the oven for 10 minutes; once set and golden, set aside to cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy—no lumps allowed! Add eggs one at a time, mixing slowly and just until blended. Next, blend in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and that all-important 1/2 cup of butterscotch sauce. You’re creating a velvety base that’ll hold its own for all 12 servings 1x.

Step 4: Swirl and Layer

Pour half the luscious filling over the cooled crust. Drizzle extra butterscotch sauce over this layer and use a knife or skewer to gently swirl for those signature marbled ribbons. Repeat with the remaining filling and a final swirl of butterscotch—artistry in dessert form.

Step 5: The Water Bath

Place your prepared pan into a larger baking dish. Carefully pour hot water into the outer dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform. This steamy spa treatment is non-negotiable for a crack-free, ultra-creamy cheesecake that slices beautifully into 12 servings 1x.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake for 55–65 minutes. You’re aiming for set edges with a slightly wobbly center—don’t overbake! Once time is up, turn off the oven, crack open the door, and let your cheesecake slowly cool for an hour; this gentle method protects that super-smooth texture.

Step 7: Chill and Decorate

Remove the cheesecake and let it chill for at least 4 hours—or, even better, overnight. Immediately before serving, slather on clouds of whipped cream, drizzle generously with butterscotch sauce, and sprinkle with crushed cookies for crunch and visual flair.

How to Serve 12 servings 1x

Garnishes

This glorious cheesecake practically begs for a crown of freshly whipped cream, a generous butterscotch drizzle, and a final scatter of cookie crumbs. Don’t hold back—garnishes add textural contrast, while also turning your 12 servings 1x into pure showstopping slices.

Side Dishes

Pair your butterscotch masterpiece with fresh berries or a tart fruit salad—the juicy brightness cuts through the richness beautifully. Coffee or espresso also makes an ideal pairing, balancing the sweetness of your 12 servings 1x with a touch of bitterness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices with decorative plates, or cut the cheesecake into elegant bars for a party platter. For an interactive twist, set up a topping bar with bowls of chocolate shavings, caramel popcorn, flaked sea salt, and extra butterscotch sauce so guests can build their own perfect 12 servings 1x creation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or a fitted lid and refrigerate. This dessert keeps well for up to five days, making those 12 servings 1x a convenient treat to enjoy over time—just be sure to store it away from strong-smelling foods!

Freezing

You can freeze individual slices or the whole cheesecake. Cool completely, wrap tightly in several layers of plastic and foil, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture—your future self will adore having 12 servings 1x ready at a moment’s notice!

Reheating

Cheesecake is best served cool or at room temperature, so no need to reheat. If you’ve frozen slices, let them soften in the refrigerator for several hours before serving to bring out all those glorious flavors and ensure a creamy texture in every mouthful of your 12 servings 1x.

FAQs

Can I use a different cookie for the crust?

Absolutely! Gingersnap or chocolate wafer cookies bring a delicious twist to the base and pair beautifully with butterscotch—just be sure you have enough to cover the pan for the full 12 servings 1x.

How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

A water bath is your cheesecake’s best friend. It helps the cake bake gently and evenly, greatly reducing cracks and keeping all 12 servings 1x picture-perfect.

Can I make butterscotch sauce from scratch?

Yes! Homemade butterscotch sauce truly elevates the flavor. Simmer brown sugar, butter, cream, and a pinch of salt for a deep, rich taste that really shines through in all 12 servings 1x.

What’s the best way to slice cheesecake cleanly?

Dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe dry before each cut. This tip ensures perfectly neat slices (especially helpful for serving those coveted 12 servings 1x to a full house!), and no messy edges.

Why does my cheesecake need to chill overnight?

Chilling allows the filling to firm up and the flavors to mingle. Trust me, the texture and taste on day two will make your 12 servings 1x even more dreamy!

Final Thoughts

This Loaded Butterscotch Cheesecake is pure celebration on a plate: buttery, creamy, swirling with sweet nostalgia. If you’re searching for the ultimate crowd-pleaser, grab your springform—your 12 servings 1x are waiting to delight and dazzle. Happy baking!