Key Lime Cheesecake

Indulge in the creamy and tangy delight of Key Lime Cheesecake Bars. These bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust combined with a luscious cheesecake filling, infused with fresh key lime juice and zest. Perfect for brightening up any occasion, they are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Flavor: The fresh key lime juice and zest provide a refreshing tang that perfectly balances the richness of the cheesecake.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these bars are accessible even for beginner bakers.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as a cool dessert on a warm day or serve them at parties and gatherings.
• Make Ahead: These bars can be prepared in advance, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your event.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant green color from the key lime makes these bars visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor or hand-held electric mixer
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Rubber spatula
• Large mixing bowl
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor or hand-held electric mixer: Ensures smooth mixing of the cream cheese and sour cream for a perfect filling.
• 9×13-inch baking pan: Provides ample space for creating thick, delicious cheesecake bars.
• Rubber spatula: Great for folding ingredients without losing air, ensuring a light texture in your cheesecake.

Ingredients

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 2 cups (228 g) graham cracker crumbs
• 1/3 cup (67 g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Key Lime Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8-ounce) packages (681 g) full-fat cream cheese, very soft (a little warmer than room temperature)
• 1 cup (227 g) full-fat sour cream, room temperature
• 1 and 1/4 cups (249 g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 Tablespoons (24 g) key lime zest
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 large egg yolks, room temperature
• 1/4 cup (57 ml) heavy cream, room temperature
• 1/2 cup (113 ml) key lime juice
• 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour

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How to Make Key Lime Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees (F). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil, making sure two sides have an overhang of at least 2 inches. Lightly spray it with nonstick baking spray.

In a large bowl:
1. Combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, ground ginger, and salt.
2. Mix well using a rubber spatula until fully combined.
3. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom – and slightly up the sides – of your prepared pan.

Bake in your preheated oven for 10 minutes. Once done, remove from oven and set aside on a cooling rack while you prepare the filling. Reduce the oven temperature to 325 degrees (F).

Step 2: Make the Key Lime Cheesecake Filling

In your food processor or using a hand-held electric mixer:
1. Beat together the cream cheese and sour cream until completely smooth.
2. Add in the sugar, vanilla extract, and lime zest, continuing to mix until everything is well blended; scrape down sides as needed.
3. On low speed, add in the eggs and egg yolks. Mix gently until just combined—avoid overmixing!
4. Using a rubber spatula, fold in the heavy cream. Then carefully fold in the key lime juice and flour, mixing just until combined.

Pour this creamy filling over your prepared crust and spread evenly.

Check that your oven has cooled to 325°F before placing your pan inside. Bake for about 38 to 40 minutes or until edges are set but center is still slightly jiggly. If browning occurs, lightly cover with foil. The cheesecake will firm up as it cools.

Remove from oven and let cool at room temperature for one hour before refrigerating for at least 5 hours or overnight.

Step 3: Serve Your Cheesecake Bars

When ready to serve:
1. Use the foil overhang to lift the cheesecake bars out of the pan onto a cutting board.
2. Slice into squares using a large sharp knife; wipe knife clean with damp cloth between slices.
3. Optionally top with whipped cream, lime slices, or additional lime zest before serving.

Enjoy these delightful Key Lime Cheesecake Bars as they bring joy to every gathering!

How to Serve Key Lime Cheesecake

When it comes to serving your delightful Key Lime Cheesecake Bars, presentation and pairing are key. There are many ways to enhance the flavors and create a memorable dessert experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will impress your guests.

Classic Whipped Cream

• Top each square with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a light and airy finish.

Lime Slices

• Garnish the bars with thin slices of fresh lime for an extra citrus kick and vibrant color.

Fresh Berries

• Serve alongside strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries to add sweetness and a pop of color.

Toasted Coconut

• Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for added texture and tropical flavor.

Mint Leaves

• Add a sprig of fresh mint as a garnish for a refreshing touch that brightens the dish visually.

Chocolate Drizzle

• Drizzle melted chocolate over the cheesecake bars for a rich contrast that enhances the dessert’s appeal.

How to Perfect Key Lime Cheesecake

To ensure your Key Lime Cheesecake Bars are absolutely perfect, keep these helpful tips in mind. They will help you achieve that creamy texture and zesty flavor everyone loves.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Ensure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother filling without lumps.
• Don’t overmix – Mix just until combined when adding eggs. Overmixing can introduce too much air, leading to cracks as the cheesecake cools.
• Cool slowly – Allow your cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door ajar after baking. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks on the surface.
• Chill before serving – Letting your cheesecake bars chill in the refrigerator for at least 5 hours (or overnight) allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Use fresh key lime juice – For the best flavor, opt for freshly squeezed key lime juice instead of bottled varieties.

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Best Side Dishes for Key Lime Cheesecake

Pairing your Key Lime Cheesecake Bars with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options that work well together:

1. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances out the richness of the cheesecake.
2. Coconut Sorbet – This light, dairy-free option adds a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with key lime flavors.
3. Graham Cracker Crust Cups – Mini graham cracker crust cups filled with whipped cream or fruit salad echo the cheesecake’s crusty base.
4. Lemonade – A refreshing glass of lemonade complements the tartness of the cheesecake perfectly.
5. Iced Tea – Sweetened or unsweetened iced tea serves as a light beverage choice that cleanses the palate.
6. Chocolate Chip Cookies – The sweetness of cookies contrasts nicely with tangy cheesecake while providing an extra treat for dessert lovers.
7. Cheese Platter – A selection of mild cheeses offers savory bites that balance out sweet desserts nicely.
8. Pineapple Salsa – This zesty salsa adds bright flavors and is great as a side dish or topping for those who enjoy mixing tastes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Key Lime Cheesecake Bars, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Cold cream cheese and eggs can lead to a lumpy filling. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smooth texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can introduce too much air, causing cracks in your cheesecake. Mix just until combined to avoid this issue.
• Not cooling properly: Removing the cheesecake too soon from the oven can lead to a soggy bottom. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating.
• Skipping the chilling time: Rushing the refrigeration process can affect the texture and flavor. Chill your cheesecake bars for at least 5 hours or overnight for best results.
• Improperly measuring ingredients: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precise amounts.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep in the fridge after slicing to maintain freshness.

Freezing Key Lime Cheesecake

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Key Lime Cheesecake

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on low power in short bursts of 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat with a lid, warming gently until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Key Lime Cheesecake?

Key Lime Cheesecake is a creamy dessert made with key lime juice and zest, creating a tart yet sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with its buttery crust.

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes, you can substitute regular limes if key limes are not available. However, the flavor will be slightly different—less tart but still delicious!

How do I know when my Key Lime Cheesecake is done?

The edges should be set while the center remains slightly jiggly. It will firm up as it cools down, so avoid overbaking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! These cheesecake bars are great make-ahead desserts. Just ensure they chill properly before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

These Key Lime Cheesecake Bars are not only delicious but also versatile for any occasion. Their creamy texture paired with zesty lime makes them perfect for summer gatherings or as a refreshing dessert year-round. Feel free to customize them with toppings like whipped cream or fresh fruit for an extra special touch!