Description
Key Lime Cheesecake delivers creamy tartness with a graham cracker crust that whispers Florida’s sunshine. Cool lime zest and smooth cream cheese create a refreshing dessert travelers crave after a long summer day.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 3 packages full-fat cream cheese, room temperature (24 ounces/750 grams)
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar (200 grams)
- 2 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (350 grams)
Dairy and Liquid Ingredients:
- ¾ cup heavy whipping cream, cold, 30-35% fat
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup key lime or lime juice (2 limes)
Flavoring and Garnish Ingredients:
- 1–2 tablespoons key lime or lime zest (2 regular limes)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- Sweetened whipped cream for garnish
Instructions
- Pulverize graham crackers into fine crumbs and melt butter, then firmly compress the mixture into the base and lower walls of an 8-inch (20.32 centimeters) or 9-inch (22.86 centimeters) springform pan, creating a uniform crust approximately 1 inch (2.54 centimeters) high.
- Utilize an electric mixer to thoroughly cream the cream cheese until achieving a silky, lump-free consistency.
- Gradually incorporate granulated sugar, freshly squeezed lime juice, finely grated lime zest, and pure vanilla extract into the cream cheese mixture, blending until completely smooth and uniform.
- In a separate chilled mixing bowl, whip heavy cream using an electric mixer, continuing until stiff, peaked texture is achieved.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula, maintaining the cream’s delicate volume and ensuring thorough integration without deflating the mixture.
- Sample the cheesecake filling and adjust sweetness if needed by adding small increments of sugar.
- Transfer the velvety mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Cover the cheesecake and refrigerate for a minimum of 5 to 6 hours, or until the dessert is completely set and firm.
- When ready to serve, carefully slice the cheesecake and optionally garnish with additional sweetened whipped cream.
Notes
- Prep like a pro by ensuring all ingredients are at room temperature for smoother mixing and creamier texture.
- Use fresh key lime juice for the most vibrant and authentic citrusy flavor that elevates the entire dessert.
- Gently fold whipped cream to maintain its airy structure, preventing a dense and heavy cheesecake.
- Chill the cheesecake for the full recommended time to allow flavors to meld and achieve the perfect set consistency.
- Line the springform pan’s bottom with parchment paper for easier removal and cleaner slicing.
- Optional garnish of lime zest or candied lime peel adds a delightful visual and flavor punch to the final presentation.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: None
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 567 kcal
- Sugar: 35 g
- Sodium: 309 mg
- Fat: 47 g
- Saturated Fat: 27 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 142 mg