Mary Berry’s Zesty Lemon & Lime Cheesecake

If you’ve ever dreamt of a cheesecake that’s light, refreshing, and bursting with citrus goodness, Mary Berry’s Zesty Lemon & Lime Cheesecake is exactly what you need in your life. This dessert is the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of sweetness, with a zesty citrus twist that’ll make your taste buds sing. The combination of lemon and lime adds a bright, fresh kick, while the creamy filling and buttery biscuit base give it that rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture we all crave. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or just want a treat that feels both indulgent and refreshing, this cheesecake is a showstopper. Trust me, it’s so good, you might want to make two!

Why You’ll Love Mary Berry’s Zesty Lemon & Lime Cheesecake

Here’s why this cheesecake will quickly become your go-to dessert:

• Perfectly Tangy & Sweet: The balance of zesty lemon and lime against the creamy, sweet filling is just right. It’s not overly tart, and it’s not too sweet—it’s pure citrus heaven.
• No-Bake Wonder: No oven required! This cheesecake is a no-bake masterpiece that’s as easy to make as it is to devour. Minimal effort for maximum flavor.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or a dinner party, this cheesecake is always a hit. Everyone will be asking for the recipe.
• Fresh & Light: The citrus flavors keep it feeling fresh and light, so you can indulge without feeling like you’ve overdone it.
• Make Ahead: Perfect for prepping ahead of time. You can make it the day before, and it only gets better as it sits!

Ingredients

This cheesecake is all about fresh flavors and simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Digestive Biscuits or Graham Crackers: The base of the cheesecake is buttery and crunchy, creating a perfect contrast to the creamy filling.
• Butter: Adds richness to the biscuit base.
• Full-Fat Cream Cheese: The main ingredient in the creamy filling, giving it that smooth, velvety texture.
• Double Cream: For a luxuriously smooth and rich filling.
• Icing Sugar: A little sweetness to balance the tang of the citrus.
• Lemon Zest & Lime Zest: Freshly grated zest of both lemon and lime bring a burst of citrus flavor to the filling.
• Lemon Juice & Lime Juice: Adds the bright, zesty tang to the cheesecake, giving it that refreshing citrus kick.
• Gelatin (optional): If you want a firmer texture, a little gelatin will help set the cheesecake.
• Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla to enhance the flavor of the creamy filling.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into how to create this fresh and zesty cheesecake!

Step 1: Make the Biscuit Base

Start by crushing your digestive biscuits (or graham crackers) into fine crumbs. You can do this by placing them in a zip-top bag and rolling over them with a rolling pin, or you can use a food processor. Melt the butter in a saucepan or microwave, then mix it with the biscuit crumbs until everything is well combined. Press this mixture into the base of a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan to form an even layer. Use the back of a spoon to press it down firmly. Chill the base in the fridge while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with the icing sugar until smooth and creamy. Add in the double cream and vanilla extract, and beat again until everything is well combined. Stir in the lemon zest and lime zest, followed by the lemon juice and lime juice. If you prefer a firmer filling, dissolve the gelatin in a small amount of water (following the instructions on the packet), then add it to the cream cheese mixture.

Step 3: Assemble the Cheesecake

Take your chilled biscuit base from the fridge. Spoon the creamy filling onto the base and spread it out evenly. Use a spatula to smooth the top. Once smooth, cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) to allow it to set properly.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

Once your cheesecake has set, remove it from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving platter. You can garnish it with extra zest, thin slices of lemon and lime, or even a few fresh mint leaves for an added pop of color. Slice, serve, and enjoy the refreshing citrusy goodness!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 10
Calories per serving: 380
Total Fat: 24g

• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
  Cholesterol: 70mg
  Sodium: 180mg
  Total Carbohydrates: 36g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 23g
  Protein: 5g
  Vitamin A: 10% DV
  Vitamin C: 25% DV
  Calcium: 6% DV
  Iron: 4% DV
  Potassium: 200mg (6% DV)

(Note: Exact nutritional values may vary depending on ingredient choices and serving sizes.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes

How to Serve Mary Berry’s Zesty Lemon & Lime Cheesecake

This cheesecake is delicious on its own, but here are a few ideas to make it extra special:

• With Fresh Berries: Serve with a handful of fresh raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries on top for a burst of color and sweetness.
• With a Light Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side for an extra creamy treat.
• Garnish with Mint: A few fresh mint leaves will bring a refreshing contrast to the citrusy flavors of the cheesecake.

Additional Tips

• Make It Ahead: This cheesecake is perfect for making ahead. It’s best when made the night before so the flavors have time to develop and the texture sets perfectly.
• Get Creative with the Base: While digestive biscuits or graham crackers are traditional, you can use ginger snaps or even coconut biscuits for a twist on the flavor of the crust.
• Customize the Citrus: Feel free to experiment with different citrus fruits like oranges or grapefruits for a unique flavor profile.
• No Gelatin? No Problem! The cheesecake will still set nicely without gelatin, especially if you let it chill for a longer period (8 hours or overnight).

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
A1: Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but the texture may be slightly different. The cheesecake may be a little less rich, but still delicious!

Q2: Can I freeze Mary Berry’s Zesty Lemon & Lime Cheesecake?
A2: Yes, you can freeze it! Make sure it’s well-wrapped in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to serve, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q4: Can I add a different flavor to the cheesecake filling?
A4: Absolutely! You can experiment with other citrus fruits like orange or grapefruit, or even add some passion fruit for an exotic twist.

Q5: Can I make this without gelatin?
A5: Yes, gelatin is optional. The cheesecake will still set nicely, especially if given enough time to chill.

Q6: Can I make this with a gluten-free crust?
A6: Definitely! Just substitute the regular digestive biscuits for a gluten-free version or use a gluten-free graham cracker crust.

Q7: Can I make this with a different crust?
A7: Yes! Try using a chocolate cookie crust, almond flour crust, or even a nut-based crust for a fun variation.

Q8: Can I use regular cream instead of double cream?
A8: Double cream works best for the creamy texture, but if you only have regular cream, it will work too, though it may not be as rich.

Q9: How do I know when the cheesecake is set?
A9: It should be firm to the touch and hold its shape when you slice it. If it’s still too soft after chilling, give it a little more time in the fridge.

Q10: Can I make this cheesecake dairy-free?
A10: Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese and double cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Zesty Lemon & Lime Cheesecake is the ultimate refreshing dessert that perfectly balances creamy sweetness with a tangy citrus twist. It’s the perfect treat for any occasion—easy to make, elegant to serve, and absolutely delicious. Give it a try, and watch it become a staple in your dessert rotation!

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