If you adore the vibrant tang of lime paired with the luscious creaminess of cheesecake, then you are absolutely going to fall in love with this Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe. It perfectly balances the zesty brightness of key lime juice and zest with the rich, velvety texture of a classic cheesecake, all nestled on a buttery graham cracker crust. Each bite feels like sunshine on a summer day, making it an irresistible treat that’s just as delightful for casual family gatherings as it is for impressing guests at a dinner party.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to making this recipe a standout. Each component plays a special role, from the crunchy, golden crust to the creamy, tangy filling. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dessert masterpiece.
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs: Provides a sweet, crunchy base with that classic pie crust flavor.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for crust): Adds just enough sweetness to balance the tartness of the lime.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Binds the crust ingredients together and gives richness.
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened): The star of the cheesecake filling for that creamy, smooth texture.
- ½ cup granulated sugar (for filling): Sweetens the filling perfectly without overpowering.
- 2 large eggs: Helps set the cheesecake and adds structure.
- ¼ cup sour cream: Adds tang and creaminess, making the texture beautifully silky.
- ⅓ cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled): Infuses that unmistakable bright, citrusy flavor.
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest: Elevates the lime flavor with aromatic oils for extra punch.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and adds subtle warmth.
- Whipped cream and lime slices (optional): Gorgeous garnishes that add creaminess and visual appeal.
How to Make Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C) and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring you leave an overhang on the sides to easily lift the bars out later. Combine the graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand—this ensures the crust will hold together nicely. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan for that perfect crust foundation. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, then allow it to cool slightly before moving on to the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and ½ cup sugar together until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy—this is key to that luscious, silky cheesecake texture. Next, add the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next; this helps maintain a perfect consistency. Stir in the sour cream, then fold in the key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract until everything is fully combined and the filling gleams with a pale green tint.
Step 3: Bake the Bars
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top gently with a spatula to create an even layer. Bake the bars for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan—this will ensure a creamy, no-fail texture that isn’t too dense or dry.
Step 4: Cool and Chill
Let the bars cool at room temperature for about an hour to gradually set, then transfer them to the refrigerator for at least three hours. This step is essential to firm up the cheesecake filling, making slicing clean and effortless. When ready to serve, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the whole slab from the pan, then cut into 9 evenly sized squares. For extra precision, chilling in the freezer for 30 minutes before slicing can be helpful.
How to Serve Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
To make these bars truly eye-catching and indulgent, top each piece with a generous dollop of fluffy whipped cream. Fresh lime slices or thin strips of lime zest make a refreshing, vibrant garnish that highlights the citrusy flavors, while also adding an inviting pop of color.
Side Dishes
These bars are delightful on their own, but pairing them with a light fruit salad or a chilled berry compote can provide a lovely textural contrast and an added layer of freshness. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream also complements the tangy lime flavor beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the bar shape: try serving the cheesecake filling in mini mason jars layered with crushed graham crackers for a charming twist. Or, use cookie cutters to create fun shapes and brighten a dessert platter. Whipped cream piped in rosettes and garnished with lime zest adds any festive occasion a special touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure they’re well covered to prevent the cheesecake from absorbing any fridge odors and to maintain their moist texture.
Freezing
This Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Since these are best served chilled, reheating is generally not recommended. If you prefer them at room temperature, simply let the bars sit out for about 15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as it can affect the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular lime juice instead of key lime juice?
Absolutely! While key lime juice has a unique tartness, regular lime juice is a fine substitute and will still give you a refreshing citrus flavor. You may want to adjust the zest quantity for an extra burst of lime aroma.
How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done baking?
The bars are ready when the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. This means the filling is perfectly creamy and won’t overbake into a dense texture.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
While this recipe relies on cream cheese and sour cream for its creamy texture, there are dairy-free cream cheese alternatives available that you could experiment with. Keep in mind, results may vary and might require some tweaks.
Why do the bars need to chill for several hours?
Chilling sets the cheesecake filling firmly, making it easier to slice cleanly and ensuring a silky texture. It also allows the flavors to meld beautifully for that classic Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe taste.
What’s the best way to get clean slices when cutting cheesecake bars?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry before each cut. This simple trick prevents the filling from sticking to the blade and gives you smooth, neat edges every time.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dessert that marries the tangy zest of lime with creamy sweetness, this Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s straightforward to make but impressive in flavor and presentation, making it your new go-to dessert for any occasion. Grab your ingredients, bake a batch, and prepare to delight yourself and everyone around you with every luscious bite!
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Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours (includes chilling)
- Yield: 9 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars combine the tangy brightness of key limes with a creamy cheesecake filling atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfectly balanced with zest and juice, this easy-to-make dessert is ideal for summer gatherings or any time you crave a refreshing citrus treat.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ⅓ cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnish (optional)
- Whipped cream
- Lime slices
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to make it easier to lift the bars out later.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Bake for 8–10 minutes until set and fragrant, then allow it to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with ½ cup sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the sour cream, key lime juice, key lime zest, and vanilla extract until everything is thoroughly combined and creamy.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly when you gently shake the pan.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool at room temperature for about 1 hour. Then refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow the filling to fully set and flavors to develop.
- Serve: Once chilled and firm, lift the bars out using the parchment paper overhang. Slice into 9 bars and garnish with whipped cream and lime slices if desired before serving.
Notes
- For a stronger lime flavor, increase key lime zest to 1½ tablespoons.
- If key limes are unavailable, you can substitute regular lime juice.
- To make slicing easier, freeze the cheesecake bars for about 30 minutes before cutting.
