Key Lime Cheesecake

Key Lime Cheesecake has a special place in the hearts of dessert lovers, and for good reason. Its blend of creamy cheesecake with the refreshing zing of key lime is simply irresistible. This dessert is a perfect balance of sweet and tart, making it a delight for the taste buds. Imagine slicing into a rich, creamy cheesecake topped with fluffy whipped cream and a hint of citrus—yummy, right? It’s not just a treat for your palate; it’s also a feast for your eyes, something that you’ll feel proud to bring to the table. Whether it’s a summer gathering or a cozy dinner with friends, Key Lime Cheesecake always steals the show. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you don’t need to be a pro in the kitchen to impress. It’s about creating something delicious that brings joy-spring and sunshine into every bite. Ready to give it a try? Let’s explore why this Key Lime Cheesecake recipe works so well, and then I’ll guide you every step of the way to create it!

Jump to:

• Why This Recipe Works
• Why You’ll Love This Key Lime Cheesecake
• Ingredients
• Preparing the Crust
• Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
• Mix the Crust Ingredients
• Press and Bake the Crust
• Making the Cheesecake Filling
• Prepare for Baking
• Mix Sugar and Cornstarch
• Blend the Cream Cheese
• Incorporate Eggs and Other Ingredients
• Remove Air Bubbles and Pour Into Crust
• Bake with Water Bath
• Cool and Chill
• Preparing the Topping
• Whip the Heavy Cream
• Pipe the Cream over Cheesecake
• Garnish
• Serving Suggestions
• Tips for Success
• Variations
• Storage Tips
• FAQs
• More Easy Desserts Recipes:
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why This Recipe Works

What makes this Key Lime Cheesecake stand out is the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. The tangy richness of the key limes enhances the overall taste, leaving you feeling refreshed even after indulging. Plus, using heavy cream and sour cream adds to the creamy texture, making the cheesecake luscious and inviting. And let’s not forget about the water bath technique! It ensures that your cheesecake bakes evenly, resulting in a smooth surface and preventing those dreaded cracks. Trust me, following this recipe guarantees a beautiful and delicious dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Key Lime Cheesecake

You’ll absolutely love the way the tanginess of key lime pairs with the rich sweetness of the cheesecake. It’s the kind of dessert that not only pleases the palate but also stands out on any dessert table. The vibrant color and creamy texture make it visually appealing—a perfect centerpiece for your gatherings. Not to mention, it’s easy to whip up but tastes impressively delicious. This Key Lime Cheesecake captures the flavors of summertime, allowing you to enjoy a slice of sunshine any time of the year!

Ingredients

• 2 cups (230g) crushed graham cracker crumbs (from 15 full sheets)
• 3 tablespoons (39g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (113g) salted butter, diced into 1 Tbsp pieces and melted
• 1 cup + 2 tablespoons (236g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon (8g) cornstarch
• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened (not melted)
• 4 large eggs
• 2/3 cup (160g) sour cream
• 1/3 cup (80ml) fresh lime or key lime juice
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup (235ml) heavy cream
• 2 1/2 tablespoons (33g) granulated sugar
• Fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries, lime wedges, lime zest, and fresh mint (optional)

Preparing the Crust

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, take a 9-inch springform pan and line the outside with a sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil. This step is crucial as it ensures that your crust stays firm and delicious.

Mix the Crust Ingredients

In a bowl, combine the crushed graham cracker crumbs with 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Then, pour in the melted salted butter and mix everything together with a fork until the crumbs are evenly moistened. The mixture should resemble damp sand.

Press and Bake the Crust

Now it’s time to transfer your mixture into the prepared springform pan. Press it firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the pan, leaving about an inch of space at the top. Once you’re satisfied with the crust, bake it in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. After that, take it out and let it cool on a wire rack.

Making the Cheesecake Filling

Prepare for Baking

Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C). You’ll want to boil about 4 quarts of water for the water bath later, so go ahead and get that started.

Mix Sugar and Cornstarch

In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup + 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch until everything is well combined. This will add a touch of sweetness and help stabilize your cheesecake.

Blend the Cream Cheese

In a larger mixing bowl, use an electric hand mixer to beat 3 packages of softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sugar and cornstarch mix as you blend. This will ensure a creamy consistency that’s key for your filling.

Incorporate Eggs and Other Ingredients

Next, mix in the 4 large eggs one at a time. Blend after each addition until just combined. Don’t forget to scrape down the bowl to mix everything evenly. Then add in the sour cream, heavy cream, fresh lime juice, and vanilla extract. Stir until thoroughly combined; your cheesecake filling should be velvety and smooth.

Remove Air Bubbles and Pour Into Crust

Now it’s time to help that batter cling to perfection! Firmly tap the bowl against the countertop about 30 times to release any large air bubbles. Once that’s done, pour the batter over your cooled graham cracker crust.

Bake with Water Bath

Take your cheesecake and place it in a roasting pan. Carefully pour the boiling water around the cheesecake pan, filling it until it reaches halfway up the sides. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 to 65 minutes. The center should be slightly jiggly; this is a sign it’s done.

Cool and Chill

Once done, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 1 hour. After that, cover it and chill in the fridge for at least 8 hours or overnight. The longer, the better!

Preparing the Topping

Whip the Heavy Cream

In a medium bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream using an electric mixer on high speed until soft peaks form. Then add 2 1/2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and keep whipping until you reach stiff peaks. This will form a luscious topping for your cheesecake.

Pipe the Cream over Cheesecake

Transfer the whipped cream into a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe generously over the cheesecake before serving. This adds a beautiful layer of creaminess and makes it look extra special.

Garnish

For an extra touch, garnish with fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries, lime wedges, lime zest, and a sprinkle of fresh mint if you like. These vibrant colors bring your dessert to life, making it even more inviting.

Serving Suggestions

When it’s time to serve, slice that chilled Key Lime Cheesecake and serve it alongside a dollop of whipped cream. For that perfect summer vibe, pair it with a refreshing glass of iced tea or limeade. Your guests will love it!

Tips for Success

• Always ensure that the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
• Fresh lime juice truly elevates the flavor, so don’t skip this step!
• Avoid opening the oven door during baking to keep the temperature stable and prevent cracks in your cheesecake.

Variations

If you’re looking to switch things up, consider adding shredded coconut to the crust for a tropical twist. You can swap out the key limes for regular limes if that’s what you have handy. Another fun idea is to incorporate a layer of fruit preserves beneath the whipped cream topping for added sweetness!

Storage Tips

Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months, just let them thaw in the fridge before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular limes instead of key limes for this cheesecake?
Absolutely! Regular limes will work, though key limes give a unique flavor that adds an extra zing.

2. How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
Using a water bath during baking and keeping an eye on the oven temperature will help avoid those pesky cracks.

3. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Definitely! It’s a great dessert to prepare a day in advance since the flavors really develop overnight.

4. What can I use instead of graham crackers for the crust?
You can use crushed Oreos or vanilla wafers for a different flavor profile.

5. How do I know when my cheesecake is done baking?
The cheesecake should look mostly set but still jiggles a bit in the center. That’s your cue to take it out!

This Key Lime Cheesecake is bound to be a hit in your kitchen. With its perfectly tangy flavor and creamy texture, every bite will make you feel like you’re enjoying summer, no matter the season. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a sweet treat for the week, this recipe will bring a little happiness to your day. Enjoy the process and savor the results—you’ll be so glad you did!

More Easy Desserts Recipes:

• Strawberry Lasagna
• Strawberry Shortcake Trifles
• Mango Key Lime Tart
• Oreo Reese’s Brownies

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