Name: Key Lime Cheesecake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: PT-489096H26M11S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6.8 ounces graham crackers (about 12 crackers), or 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 3 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt, divided; 5 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 (8-ounce) blocks cream cheese, at room temperature; 2/3 cup (135g) sugar; 2 tablespoons sour cream; 1 teaspoon key lime zest; 1/4 cup fresh key lime juice (from about 8 juicy key limes); 3 large eggs, at room temperature; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons sour cream; 1/2 teaspoon key lime zest; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Bright, tangy, and decadently creamy, Key Lime Cheesecake is that showstopper dessert you’ll want to bring to every celebration—or just reward yourself on a random Tuesday! This cheesecake perfectly balances the zesty flavor of key limes with luxuriously smooth cream cheese and a buttery graham cracker crust. Every bite is a trip to the tropics, sure to linger in your memory long after the last forkful is gone. If you’re searching for that unforgettable crowd-pleaser, Key Lime Cheesecake is ready to deliver!

Key Lime Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This luscious Key Lime Cheesecake is all about fresh, simple ingredients working together in perfect harmony. Each one plays a special role in nailing the creamy, zippy, rich character that makes this dessert a classic. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Cooking spray: Ensures your cheesecake releases cleanly from the springform pan, saving you from dessert heartbreak!
Graham crackers: The foundation for our crust—a classic, toasty, buttery base that’s subtle but absolutely essential.
Powdered sugar: Adds a delicate sweetness to the crust and whipped cream without any grittiness.
Salt: Just a pinch brings out all the other flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
Unsalted butter: Binds the crust and adds a rich, slightly nutty flavor once baked.
Cream cheese: The creamy heart of Key Lime Cheesecake—rich, smooth, and delightfully indulgent.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling and helps achieve that irresistible silky texture.
Sour cream: Adds a subtle tang and helps keep the filling extra creamy as well as thickening the whipped cream topping.
Key lime zest: Packed with fragrant citrus oils to dial up that signature lime zing.
Fresh key lime juice: Delivers authentic, punchy tartness that lifts every spoonful (no bottled juice, please!)
Eggs: The secret to a custardy, set cheesecake—just don’t overbeat them for best results.
Heavy cream: Whips up to soft, billowy peaks for that elegant topping.
Vanilla extract: Grounds the whipped cream topping with warm floral notes.

How to Make Key Lime Cheesecake

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grab your trusty 9-inch springform pan and give the inside a good spritz with cooking spray. This simple step keeps your Key Lime Cheesecake looking bakery-beautiful when it’s time to remove it from the pan.

Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

Break up your graham crackers and pulse them in a food processor until you’ve got fine, sandy crumbs. (Or use ready-made crumbs for a shortcut.) Add powdered sugar and salt, then toss in your melted butter. With a quick blend or stir, it’ll look like damp sand—just right!

Step 3: Press and Bake the Crust

Dump the buttery crumbs into your pan and press them into an even, compact layer. Press firmly into the corners—for this, your hands are by far the best tool. If crumbs stick to your fingers, a bit of water is a lifesaver. Bake for about 10 minutes, just until you see a gentle golden color and smell the toasty aroma. Set aside while you move on.

Step 4: Prepare the Silky Key Lime Cheesecake Filling

Add cream cheese, sugar, and salt to a stand mixer (or use a hand mixer), beating until the mixture is lavishly smooth and fluffy. Scrape down the sides and add sour cream and lime zest—this is where that magical fragrance starts to blossom. Pour in the fresh key lime juice, blending until everything’s dreamy and uniform. Last, incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing gently and scraping between each addition. Overbeating can lead to cracks, so keep it just combined.

Step 5: Bake and Chill the Cheesecake

Spoon the silky filling onto your cooled crust, leveling it out with a spatula. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’re looking for set edges and a slight jiggle in the center, like Jell-O. Let it cool on a rack for about an hour, then chill in the fridge (uncovered) for at least two hours. This patience rewards you with a structure that slices cleanly and holds its form!

Step 6: Whip Up the Dreamy Topping

Using your stand mixer’s whisk attachment (or electric hand mixer), beat the heavy cream until doubled and thick. Slowly add powdered sugar, whisking to soft peaks. Add sour cream, more lime zest, and vanilla. Beat just until you have billowy, stable peaks—perfect for spreading or piping with flair.

Step 7: Decorate and Slice

Release your chilled Key Lime Cheesecake from the pan with a sharp knife around the edge, then slide off the springform ring. Top with clouds of whipped cream—either piped or simply spooned for a rustic look. Slice with a hot knife for those elegant, clean cuts. Serve and watch everyone’s eyes light up!

How to Serve Key Lime Cheesecake

Garnishes

This dessert practically begs for a flourish! A sprinkle of extra key lime zest, twisting curls of lime peel, or even a few thin lime slices can turn your Key Lime Cheesecake into an artful centerpiece. If you want to get really fancy, edible flowers or a scattering of toasted coconut hint at an upscale tropical vibe.

Side Dishes

Because the cheesecake is so rich and citrusy, it pairs beautifully with simple accompaniments. Serve each slice alongside fresh berries for color and tartness, or go classic with a cup of strong coffee or a tall glass of iced tea. If it’s a party, a fruity sparkling wine brings out all the playful, celebratory notes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, you can cut the cheesecake into small bars or squares and serve as elegant finger food at gatherings. Individual mini Key Lime Cheesecakes in jars also make charming, portable desserts for picnics or showers. Try layering crumbled graham crackers, cheesecake filling, and whipped cream parfait-style for a sundae-bar experience everyone will love!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Key Lime Cheesecake keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or slide individual slices into airtight containers. The flavors actually mellow and meld a bit more overnight, making for a fantastic next-day treat!

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Key Lime Cheesecake (without the whipped cream topping) for up to one month. Wrap the whole cheesecake or individual slices snugly with plastic wrap, then foil, to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor—it’s the perfect make-ahead dessert for the busiest weeks.

Reheating

No need to reheat! Key Lime Cheesecake is at its best when served chilled from the fridge. If you’re a fan of softer, almost custardy slices, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving—just enough for the flavors to “open up” and the texture to become even more luscious.

FAQs

Can I substitute regular limes for key limes?

Absolutely! While authentic key limes offer a unique floral tartness, regular limes still make a truly delicious Key Lime Cheesecake. The final dessert will have a slightly less aromatic zing, but no one will be disappointed.

Why did my cheesecake crack on top?

Cracks can happen if the batter is overmixed, if the cheesecake is overbaked, or if it cools too quickly. To help prevent cracks, mix in the eggs just until combined, bake until just set, and cool the cheesecake gradually on a wire rack before chilling.

Is it necessary to use a water bath?

This particular Key Lime Cheesecake recipe is designed to bake without a water bath, making it straightforward and less fussy. The result is still creamy and smooth, especially if you don’t overbake it.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap in gluten-free graham crackers for the crust—the process is exactly the same, and you’ll still get that familiar, buttery crumble beneath the citrusy filling.

How far ahead can I make the cheesecake?

Key Lime Cheesecake can be fully made and stored (without whipped cream) up to two days before your event. Add the fresh whipped cream and garnishes just before serving for the prettiest presentation and best texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a fresh, tangy dessert that feels like a mini vacation with every bite, you absolutely need to try making this Key Lime Cheesecake! It’s foolproof, crowd-pleasing, and just plain fun to serve. Share it at your next gathering or treat yourself—you’ll instantly understand why everyone raves about it!