Description
Indulge in the decadent flavors of a Margarita Cheesecake—rich, creamy, and bursting with zesty lime,and a buttery graham cracker crust. This elegant dessert is the perfect fusion of a classic margarita and cheesecake, making it an irresistible crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- Zest of 1 lime
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- Zest of 2 limes
- 2 tbsp triple sec (orange liqueur)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Lime slices or zest (for garnish)
- Coarse sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and lime zest.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden. Let cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth (2-3 minutes).
- Add sour cream and mix until combined.
- Beat in eggs one at a time.
- Mix in lime juice, lime zest, triple sec, tequila, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Place the springform pan into a larger baking dish. Add hot water to the dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
- Remove from the water bath and cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Prepare the Topping:
- Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled cheesecake.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with lime slices, zest, and optional coarse sea salt. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother filling.
- Wrapping the springform pan with foil will prevent water from seeping into the crust during the water bath.
- Let the cheesecake chill completely to achieve the best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
