Easy Key Lime Cheesecake

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • No-Bake Convenience: No need to turn on the oven, making it ideal for warm weather.
  • Refreshing Flavor: The tartness of key lime juice paired with a creamy filling is a match made in dessert heaven.
  • Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is easy to find, with no complicated steps involved.
  • Make-Ahead Dessert: Perfect for preparing ahead of time, leaving you free to focus on other tasks or enjoy your guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust:

  • graham cracker crumbs
  • melted unsalted butter

For the Filling:

  • full-fat cream cheese, room temperature
  • powdered sugar
  • key lime or lime juice
  • key lime or lime zest
  • vanilla extract
  • cold heavy whipping cream

For Garnish:

  • sweetened whipped cream

Directions

  1. Prepare the Crust:
    Combine the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter in a mixing bowl. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and sides of an 8-inch or 9-inch springform pan to form a crust.
  2. Make the Filling:
    • Beat the cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth.
    • Add powdered sugar, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and well combined.
    • Whip the cold heavy cream in a separate bowl until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
  3. Assemble the Cheesecake:
    Spread the filling evenly over the crust. Cover and refrigerate for 5-6 hours, or until firm and set.
  4. Serve:
    Slice the cheesecake and top each piece with sweetened whipped cream before serving.

Servings and Timing

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Chill Time: 5-6 hours
  • Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
  • Servings: 12

Variations

  • Lemon Cheesecake: Replace lime juice and zest with lemon for a tangy twist.
  • Coconut Crust: Add shredded coconut to the graham cracker crumbs for a tropical vibe.
  • Berry Topping: Serve with fresh berries for a colorful garnish.
  • Chocolate Twist: Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the cheesecake for extra indulgence.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: Wrap the cheesecake tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes, regular limes work perfectly and are often easier to find.

2. Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.

3. How do I prevent the crust from crumbling?

Press the crust firmly into the pan and chill it before adding the filling.

4. What if I don’t have a springform pan?

Use a regular pie dish, but serving may be trickier.

5. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best texture, but low-fat can be used in a pinch.

6. How do I whip cream to stiff peaks?

Use a cold bowl and beaters, and whip the cream on medium-high speed until peaks hold their shape.

7. Can I add food coloring?

Yes, a drop of green food coloring can enhance the lime theme.

8. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, it’s vegetarian-friendly.

9. Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is preferred for its bright flavor, but bottled works too.

10. How far in advance can I make this?

Prepare it up to 2 days in advance and keep it refrigerated until serving.

Conclusion

This Easy Key Lime Cheesecake is the ultimate summer dessert, combining tangy citrus flavors with creamy indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, this no-bake recipe is guaranteed to impress. Try it today and savor the refreshing taste of lime in every bite!

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Easy Key Lime Cheesecake

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  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Description

Indulge in the refreshing flavors of summer with this Easy Key Lime Cheesecake! A no-bake dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a creamy, tangy filling bursting with citrus zest. Perfect for warm-weather gatherings or make-ahead treats, this cheesecake is simplicity at its best.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
For the Crust:

  • Graham cracker crumbs
  • Melted unsalted butter

For the Filling:

  • Full-fat cream cheese (room temperature)
  • Powdered sugar
  • Key lime or lime juice
  • Key lime or lime zest
  • Vanilla extract
  • Cold heavy whipping cream

For Garnish:

  • Sweetened whipped cream

Instructions

  • Prepare the Crust:
    • Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter.
    • Press firmly into the bottom and sides of an 8-inch or 9-inch springform pan.
  • Make the Filling:
    • Beat cream cheese until smooth.
    • Add powdered sugar, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until creamy.
    • Whip cold heavy cream to stiff peaks in a separate bowl. Fold gently into the cream cheese mixture.
  • Assemble the Cheesecake:
    • Spread filling over the crust. Cover and refrigerate for 5-6 hours until firm.
  • Serve:
    • Slice and top with sweetened whipped cream.

Notes

  • Use regular limes if key limes are unavailable.
  • Gluten-free graham crackers can substitute for a gluten-free version.
  • Ensure the crust is well-pressed and chilled to prevent crumbling.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5-6 hours
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American

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