If you love the tangy brightness of key lime pie and the creamy indulgence of cheesecake, then you are absolutely going to adore this Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe. It combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a luscious, zesty cheesecake filling and finishes it off with light, fluffy whipped cream. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual get-together, a sunny afternoon treat, or just a sweet way to brighten your day. The balance of tart lime, creamy texture, and a touch of sweetness makes these bars utterly irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe is simple but indispensable, playing a special role in creating the perfect texture and flavor harmony. From the crispy crust to the silky cheesecake and that fresh lime zing, every component matters.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Provides the classic, crisp base with a subtle sweetness and slight crunch.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the crust and the creamy filling evenly without overpowering the citrus vibe.
- Unsalted butter: Melts into the graham crackers, binding the crust while adding rich, buttery flavor.
- Cream cheese: The star of the filling for smooth, creamy texture and a tangy backdrop.
- Eggs: Help set the cheesecake bars perfectly, giving them that perfect sliceable consistency.
- Sour cream: Adds a bit of tang and richness, keeping the filling moist and luscious.
- Heavy cream: Used both in the filling and whipped topping for extra creaminess and a light mouthfeel.
- Fresh lime juice: The vibrant heart of the recipe, delivering that unmistakable, fresh citrus punch.
- Lime zest: Intensifies the lime flavor with fragrant oils and beautiful specks of color.
- Vanilla extract: Balances the tartness with warm, sweet notes, rounding out the flavor profile.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream topping gently, enhancing the overall dessert without heaviness.
- Lime slices and extra lime zest (optional): For a cheerful and stylish garnish to elevate the presentation.
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 greasing or lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This simple prep ensures your bars come out easily without sticking. Combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl until well mixed. Press this buttery crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan, forming an even layer. Bake it for 8 to 10 minutes, just until golden brown. Setting aside the crust while you whip up the filling lets it cool and firm up beautifully.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
Grab a large mixing bowl and beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until they reach a smooth and creamy consistency. This step is key; no lumps means silky bars. One at a time, add the eggs, mixing each in thoroughly to keep the batter smooth. Next, stir in the sour cream, heavy cream, fresh lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. The fresh lime juice and zest infuse the cheesecake with that signature zippy flavor, while the sour cream keeps it tangy yet moist. Blend until everything is perfectly incorporated.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake Bars
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly to the edges. Bake at 325°F for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly — this gentle wobble means the bars will be creamy after chilling. The edges should look firm and slightly puffed. Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool slowly inside for one hour. This gentle cooling helps prevent cracks. Afterward, transfer the whole pan to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight for the best texture.
Step 4: Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping
When you’re ready to serve, whisk heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar in a bowl until stiff peaks form. This luscious whipped cream adds a soft, sweet contrast to the tart cheesecake. Dollop or pipe the whipped cream onto each bar just before plating.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Carefully lift the bars using the parchment paper edges and slice into squares or rectangles, depending on your desired portion size. Top each with a slice of lime and a sprinkle of extra lime zest if you want to add an extra punch of citrus and an elegant look. Serve chilled to enjoy every smooth, tangy, and creamy bite.
How to Serve Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
A simple lime slice paired with a sprinkle of fresh lime zest gives these bars a vibrant, fresh finish. Adding a sprig of mint can add a pop of green and a refreshing aroma, but the citrus elements alone do an excellent job at enhancing the overall experience.
Side Dishes
These bars shine on their own but can be paired beautifully with a light fruit salad or a refreshing glass of iced tea. For a more indulgent treat, try serving alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a tart raspberry coulis to complement the zestiness.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress? Serve your slices on pretty dessert plates with dollops of whipped cream piped on top, garnished with edible flowers or candied lime peel. You can also layer the elements in a clear glass jar to create Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bar parfaits — a charming twist for parties or picnics.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover bars stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh and delicious for up to five days, allowing you to enjoy your Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe over several treats without losing any creaminess or flavor.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, these bars freeze wonderfully. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving to maintain that perfect texture.
Reheating
Since these are best enjoyed chilled, reheating is not usually recommended. However, if you prefer them slightly softened, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before eating. This lets the cheesecake bars come to a pleasant texture without melting the whipped topping.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is definitely the star in this recipe, providing vibrant flavor and aroma that bottled juice can’t quite match. If you must substitute, choose a high-quality bottled juice but expect a mild loss of brightness.
What is the best way to soften cream cheese for this recipe?
To soften cream cheese quickly, leave it out at room temperature for about an hour before mixing. For a faster method, microwave in 10-second bursts until it’s soft but not melted.
Why should I leave the cheesecake bars to cool gradually in the oven?
Allowing the bars to cool slowly with the oven door ajar prevents rapid temperature changes that cause cracks or uneven texture. It also helps the filling finish setting gently for a creamy result.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap out the graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free graham crackers or use finely crushed gluten-free cookies, maintaining the same quantities for a safe and tasty crust.
How do I get perfect whipped cream peaks for topping?
Make sure your heavy cream is well chilled and use a cold bowl and beaters for best results. Beat on medium-high speed until your cream forms stiff peaks that hold their shape without being grainy.
Final Thoughts
This Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe is truly a joyful blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet elements that come together effortlessly. Whether you’re making these for a special event or just because you’re craving a delightful treat, they never fail to impress and satisfy. Give it a try—you’ll quickly see why these bars have become one of my favorite go-to desserts for any time of the year.
Print
Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 9-12 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these tangy and creamy Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth cheesecake filling infused with fresh lime juice and zest. Topped with fluffy whipped cream and garnished with lime slices, these bars offer the perfect balance of sweet and tart, ideal for a refreshing dessert or a summer treat.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
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
Whipped Cream 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.
- Mix Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
- Form and Bake Crust: 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 Eggs: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth texture.
- Incorporate Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the sour cream, heavy cream, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Pour Filling over Crust: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly for uniform baking.
- Bake Cheesecake Bars: Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and only slightly jiggly, with firm edges.
- Cool in Oven: Turn off the oven and leave the door slightly ajar. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Chill: Transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to achieve the best texture.
- Prepare 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, top each one 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
- For cream cheese, ensure it is softened at room temperature to avoid lumps in the batter.
- Use fresh lime juice and zest for the best flavor and vibrant color.
- If you prefer a stronger lime flavor, add extra lime zest to the filling.
- The cooling step in the oven helps prevent cracks in the cheesecake.
- The bars are best served chilled and can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
