Key Lime Cheesecake Recipe
This Key Lime Cheesecake is a creamy, tangy dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth lime-infused cream cheese filling, and a refreshing citrus flavor that perfectly balances sweetness and tartness. Ideal for lime lovers and those seeking a delightful, elegant cheesecake with a tropical twist.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Total Time: 9 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted (plus 1–2 tablespoons extra if needed)
Filling
- 1 1/2 pounds cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 4 teaspoons lime zest
- 3 large eggs
- 2/3 cup key lime juice
Garnish (optional)
- Whipped cream
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Mix crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 1/3 cup melted unsalted butter. Mix until the mixture resembles wet sand. If it feels dry, gradually add 1-2 tablespoons more melted butter until properly moistened.
- Press crust: Transfer the crust mixture to a 9-inch springform pan. Press it firmly into the bottom and up the sides to create an even layer. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the filling.
- Beat filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, 1 cup granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lime zest until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Gradually pour in key lime juice and blend until fully incorporated.
- Bake: Pour the cream cheese filling over the chilled crust, smoothing the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 60 minutes or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. After baking, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for about 25 minutes to prevent cracking.
- Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to fully set and enhance the flavors.
- Serve: Before serving, optionally garnish the cheesecake with whipped cream and lime wedges for an extra touch of decoration and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Key lime juice can be substituted with regular lime juice if unavailable, but key lime juice gives a more authentic flavor.
- Make sure not to overbake the cheesecake to keep it creamy and avoid cracking.
- Allow the cheesecake to chill fully for the best texture and flavor.
Keywords: key lime cheesecake, lime dessert, graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake, citrus dessert, baked cheesecake
Find it online: https://kitchenbyclara.com/key-lime-cheesecake-recipe/
