Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my love affair with key lime cheesecake! It’s this creamy, dreamy dessert that just sings with tangy goodness. Every bite is like a little burst of sunshine, and I can’t help but smile. The graham cracker crust is perfectly crumbly, and that filling? Wow! It’s silky smooth with a delightful zesty kick from the key limes that dances on your taste buds. Whether I’m serving it at a summer barbecue or just indulging on a quiet evening at home, this cheesecake never fails to impress. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll be hooked! It’s the kind of treat that brings everyone together, and I can’t wait for you to try it. Let’s dive in and make some magic happen in the kitchen!
Ingredients List
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup key lime juice
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Prepare Key Lime Cheesecake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven heated up! Preheating is super important because it ensures that your cheesecake bakes evenly from the moment it goes in. Set your oven to 325°F (160°C) and let it warm up while you prepare the crust and filling. Trust me, you want that perfect temperature for a creamy, delicious cheesecake!
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
Now, let’s whip up that delightful graham cracker crust! In a mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs with 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter. Mix it all together until it resembles wet sand. Then, take your springform pan and press this mixture firmly into the bottom. Make sure it’s nice and even, as this will be the base of your cheesecake. A solid crust is key to holding all that luscious filling in!
Step 3: Make the Filling
Next up, it’s time for the star of the show—the filling! In a large mixing bowl, beat together 4 packages (8 oz each) of softened cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar until it’s silky smooth. Then, add in 1 cup of sour cream, 1/2 cup of key lime juice, 4 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix everything until well combined and creamy, making sure there are no lumps. This filling is where all the magic happens!
Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour that luscious filling over the crust in your prepared pan, and then it’s time to bake! Place it in your preheated oven and let it bake for about 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set but still has a slight jiggle. Don’t worry, it’ll firm up as it cools. Just keep an eye on it—it’s easy to get carried away with the delicious smell wafting from the oven!
Step 5: Cooling and Refrigerating
After baking, let your cheesecake cool at room temperature for a bit. Then, pop it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. Cooling is crucial here because it allows the flavors to meld beautifully and gives you that perfect slice when you’re ready to serve. Patience is a virtue, my friend, and this cheesecake is worth the wait!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy Texture: The velvety smooth filling melts in your mouth, making every bite an indulgent experience.
- Tangy Flavor: The zesty key lime juice gives this cheesecake a refreshing kick that’s perfect for warm days or any time you need a pick-me-up.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday dinner, or just a casual get-together, this cheesecake is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you’ll be amazed at how easily this dessert comes together.
- Impressive Presentation: The beautiful layers and vibrant color make it a stunning centerpiece on any dessert table.
- Versatile Toppings: Dress it up with fresh whipped cream, lime zest, or even some colorful berries for a personal touch!
- Make-Ahead Option: It’s a great dessert to prepare in advance, so you can enjoy your time with family and friends without the last-minute rush.
Tips for Success
Okay, let’s make sure your key lime cheesecake turns out absolutely perfect! First, use fresh key limes if you can; the flavor is just unbeatable! If you’re in a pinch and can only find bottled juice, be sure it’s 100% pure for the best taste. Also, don’t skip the step of letting the cheesecake cool completely before refrigerating—this helps with the texture and flavor. If you find your cheesecake cracks on top, don’t fret! You can cover it with whipped cream or fresh fruit for a beautiful touch. And remember, patience is key! Let it chill for at least 4 hours (or overnight, if possible) to let those flavors really shine. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Nutritional Information
Please note that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so the information provided here is just an estimate and not an exact measurement. Each slice of this delicious key lime cheesecake is approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
FAQ Section
Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
Absolutely! You can use regular limes if key limes aren’t available. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be a bit different; regular limes tend to be a tad more bitter. If you want to balance the tartness, you might consider adding a little extra sugar or using a splash of lemon juice to brighten it up. The important thing is to make it your own, so don’t hesitate to experiment!
How long can I store the cheesecake?
Your key lime cheesecake will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-5 days. Just make sure to cover it well with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it from drying out. If you want to enjoy it later, you can also freeze it! Just slice it into portions, wrap each piece tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving, and you’ll be ready to indulge once again!
What can I serve with key lime cheesecake?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! I love serving my key lime cheesecake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for that extra creaminess. You can also sprinkle some lime zest or add fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor. For a fun twist, consider pairing it with a light fruit salad or even a refreshing mango sorbet on the side. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a chilled glass of sweet iced tea or a sparkling lemonade makes for a perfect complement to this tangy treat!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your key lime cheesecake properly is key to keeping it fresh and delicious! After it’s fully cooled and set in the fridge, make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. This will help prevent any fridge odors from seeping in and keep that creamy texture intact. It’ll stay good for about 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze it! Just slice the cheesecake into individual portions, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, and then pop them in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. Trust me, there’s no need to reheat—this cheesecake is best served chilled! Enjoy every creamy bite!
Print
Key lime cheesecake: 7 Reasons You’ll Crave This Delight
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and tangy dessert with a graham cracker crust.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup key lime juice
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add sour cream, key lime juice, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the filling over the crust in the pan.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until the center is set.
- Let it cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh key limes for the best flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Top with whipped cream if desired.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: key lime cheesecake
