Description
These Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars are a refreshing twist on the classic key lime pie! With a creamy, tangy cheesecake layer, a buttery graham cracker crust, and the perfect balance of lime zest and juice, these bars are a delightful dessert for any occasion. Topped with whipped cream and lime slices, they are a true crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2/3 cup fresh lime juice (about 4–5 limes)
- 1 tbsp lime zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- Lime slices (for garnish)
- Extra lime zest (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Set aside to cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the sour cream, heavy cream, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the Cheesecake Bars:
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and only slightly jiggly. The edges should be firm.
- Turn off the oven and leave the door slightly ajar. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. Then, transfer it to the fridge to chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best texture.
- Make the Whipped Cream Topping:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, about 3-5 minutes.
- Serve:
- Once the cheesecake bars have chilled and set, top each bar with a dollop of whipped cream, a slice of lime, and a sprinkle of extra lime zest if desired.
- Slice into bars and serve chilled for the best flavor!
Notes
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: If you prefer a stronger graham cracker flavor, you can add an extra 1/4 cup of graham cracker crumbs to the crust mixture.
- Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is key for the tangy flavor, but you can use bottled lime juice in a pinch.
- Make-Ahead: These cheesecake bars can be made a day ahead of time and stored in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 85mg