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
Scale
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
- â…“ 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.
