If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the creamy tang of cheesecake with the bright, zesty freshness of key lime pie, then you’re in for a real treat with this Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe. It’s a perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a buttery graham cracker crust that crunches beneath a luscious, lime-infused cheesecake layer. Whether you’re after a show-stopping dessert for a special occasion or a delightful everyday indulgence, these bars are sure to become your new favorite go-to. They capture everything wonderful about classic key lime pie and rich cheesecake in one easy-to-eat bar.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in the Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe is simple yet essential, playing its own role in creating that signature flavor, creamy texture, and perfect color contrast. Here’s what you’ll need to craft these irresistible bars:
- Graham cracker crumbs: Provides a buttery, crunchy base for the crust that holds everything together.
- Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the crust and filling.
- Unsalted butter: Melted to bind the crust crumbs into a deliciously firm layer.
- Cream cheese: The star ingredient that gives the filling its rich, creamy consistency.
- Eggs: Help set the cheesecake so your bars slice perfectly.
- Sour cream: Adds tanginess and keeps the cheesecake silky smooth.
- Heavy cream: Used in both the filling and whipped topping for luxurious creaminess.
- Fresh lime juice: Brings that fresh, bright citrus punch crucial to the bars’ key lime flavor.
- Lime zest: Intensifies lime aroma and adds a subtle texture.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor with warm, sweet notes.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream topping for a smooth finish.
- Lime slices and extra zest (optional): Perfect for garnishing and adding 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). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to make removing the bars easier. Mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan, ensuring an even layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden and fragrant, then set aside to cool as you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until perfectly smooth and creamy — this usually takes about three minutes and is key for that luscious texture. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each to keep the batter silky without lumps. Then stir in sour cream, heavy cream, fresh lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract, blending everything into a smooth, harmonious mixture bursting with tangy citrus flavor.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake Bars
Pour your cheesecake batter evenly over the cooled crust, spreading it carefully. Bake the whole pan at 325°F (163°C) for 25-30 minutes until the center is just set and slightly jiggly while the edges are firm. This gentle baking keeps the bars creamy, not dry or cracked.
Step 4: Cool and Chill
Turn off your oven and leave the door cracked open to let the cheesecake cool inside for an hour; this prevents sudden temperature changes that can cause cracking. Then transfer the bars to the refrigerator for at least four hours, preferably overnight. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld and the texture to fully set.
Step 5: Whip the Topping and Serve
Before serving, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until stiff peaks form — this sweet, airy whipped cream is the crowning touch. Top each cheesecake bar with a dollop of this whipped cream, a fresh lime slice, and a sprinkle of extra lime zest for that picture-perfect finish.
How to Serve Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like lime slices and lime zest not only lifts the bars visually but also enhances their fresh citrus aroma and flavor. A small mint leaf or even a few crushed graham crackers on top can add interesting texture and color contrast, taking presentation up a notch without extra effort.
Side Dishes
These bars are rich and flavorful on their own but pair beautifully with light sides such as fresh berries, a simple berry compote, or even a crisp green salad with a citrus dressing. A chilled glass of sparkling water or a fruity white wine can also complement the tangy sweetness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For serving at parties, cut the bars into bite-sized squares and skewer them with decorative toothpicks, pairing each with a small dollop of whipped cream and a zest curl. You can also layer crumbled bars in parfait glasses with whipped cream and fresh lime segments for an elegant dessert presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your bars, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping them chilled helps maintain their creamy texture and fresh lime flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the cheesecake bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or placing in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving to preserve their delightful texture.
Reheating
These bars are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is generally unnecessary. If you prefer, let them sit out for 15 minutes after removing from the fridge for slightly softer bites.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh lime juice?
While bottled lime juice is convenient, fresh lime juice provides the freshest, brightest flavor that really makes these cheesecake bars stand out. If you must use bottled, opt for one with no added sugars or preservatives for best results.
Is it necessary to chill the bars overnight?
Chilling overnight isn’t mandatory but highly recommended. This resting time allows the cheesecake to firm up completely and the flavors to deepen, resulting in the best texture and taste.
Can I make these bars gluten free?
Yes! Simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or crushed gluten-free cookies. Just be sure to check your other ingredients for any hidden gluten.
What’s the best way to cut the bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry before slicing. This helps to cut through the creamy bars smoothly without cracking or crumbling.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead and assemble later?
You can prepare and bake the crust and cheesecake layers in advance and store them chilled. Keep the whipped cream topping until right before serving to maintain its fluffy texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dessert that’s bursting with zesty freshness and creamy indulgence, the Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe delivers in spades. It’s a wonderful blend of two classic desserts that’s simple enough for a weeknight treat yet elegant enough for special gatherings. Give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!
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Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these tangy and creamy Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars, featuring a golden graham cracker crust topped with a luscious key lime cheesecake filling and finished with a dollop of sweet whipped cream. Perfectly balanced between tart and sweet, this dessert is an irresistible treat for lime lovers and cheesecake enthusiasts alike.
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 to ensure easy removal later.
- Mix Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is fully combined and resembles wet sand.
- Form and Bake the Crust: Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden brown. Remove from oven and set aside to cool before adding the filling.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar together on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes.
- Add Eggs: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully.
- Incorporate Remaining Ingredients: Mix in sour cream, heavy cream, fresh lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract until batter is smooth and homogeneous.
- Assemble the Bars: Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake the Cheesecake Bars: Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly, and the edges are firm.
- Cool the Cheesecake: Turn off the oven and leave the door slightly ajar. Let the cheesecake bars cool inside the oven for 1 hour, then transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to achieve the best texture.
- Prepare Whipped Cream Topping: In a large bowl, beat heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, which takes about 3-5 minutes.
- Serve: Once chilled, top each cheesecake bar with a dollop of whipped cream, garnish with a lime slice and a sprinkle of extra lime zest if desired.
- Slice and Enjoy: Cut into bars and serve chilled for optimal flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh key lime juice for authentic tanginess; bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch but may alter flavor.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling without lumps.
- Chilling overnight helps the bars set firmly and enhances flavor.
- For easier slicing, warm the knife blade under hot water and wipe dry between cuts.
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
