Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars: A Tangy Twist on Dessert
A creamy dessert with a zesty citrus twist and a chocolate graham crust for any occasion.
Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars
Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars are a luscious marriage of two classic desserts: the tangy, refreshing flavor of key lime pie and the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake. These bars offer an irresistible treat with a crunchy chocolate graham cracker crust and a smooth key lime-infused cheesecake filling. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, need a crowd-pleasing potluck dessert, or simply want a treat at home, this recipe is designed to be both easy and impressive.
Why You’ll Love These Bars
- Tangy and Sweet: The combination of sweetened cream cheese and tart key lime juice creates a balanced, refreshing flavor.
- Smooth Texture: The cheesecake layer is silky, with just the right amount of richness and citrus to please any palate.
- Chocolate Graham Cracker Crust: The deep flavor of chocolate graham crackers adds a unique twist, complementing the lime filling.
- Easy to Serve: Bars are perfect for slicing, sharing, and transporting, making them ideal for parties.
Recipe Overview
This recipe is straightforward yet delivers impressive results. You’ll need a few basic kitchen tools, common baking ingredients, and—most importantly—fresh key lime juice for authentic flavor. The process involves making a simple graham cracker crust, whipping up a cheesecake filling with key lime, baking, then chilling the bars to perfection.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 18 whole chocolate graham crackers
- 1 stick salted butter, melted
- Cooking spray
For the Filling
- Three 8-ounce packages cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup bottled Key lime juice
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Powdered sugar, for topping
- Grated lime zest, for topping
Directions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (177°C). Place a 9-by-13-inch baking pan of hot water on the bottom oven rack; this moisture helps prevent cracks in the cheesecake.
- Prepare the crust: Line a second 9-by-13-inch baking pan with foil, allowing some overhang for easy removal. Coat with nonstick cooking spray.
- Pulse the chocolate graham crackers in a food processor until fine crumbs form.
- Add melted butter and pulse until well combined—the crumbs should hold together when pinched.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a uniform layer.
- Mix the filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, key lime juice, and vanilla extract on medium speed until smooth and light (about 2–3 minutes).
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition for a smooth consistency.
- Beat in the sour cream until just combined—about 1 minute.
- Assemble and bake:
- Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the surface with a spatula.
- Bake in the center of the oven until the center is just set but slightly jiggly, about 45 minutes.
- Turn off the oven and leave the bars inside with the door closed for 10 minutes.
- Open the oven door halfway and let the bars remain inside for another 10 minutes—this gentle cooling helps prevent cracks.
- Cool and chill:
- Remove the pan from the oven and let cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes.
- Refrigerate until cold, at least 1 hour and up to 24 hours—the longer the chill, the firmer the bars.
- Serve:
- Lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the foil overhang. Peel away the foil.
- Cut into pieces—either 12 large bars or 24 smaller bites.
- Dust generously with powdered sugar and sprinkle with lime zest for a beautiful finish.
Baking Tips & Tricks
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a silky-smooth filling.
- Water Bath: Placing a pan of hot water on a rack below the bars creates steam, preventing surface cracks in your cheesecake layer.
- Chocolate Graham Crackers: These add a subtle, deeper flavor that complements the key lime, but regular graham crackers work as well.
- Don’t Overbake: Bars should be just set; a little jiggle in the center is perfect and ensures a creamy texture.
- Chill Time: Allowing the bars to chill completely is crucial for easy slicing and perfect texture.
Recipe Variations
- Citrus Swaps: Try replacing key lime juice with regular lime juice or even lemon juice for a different twist.
- Toppings: Whipped cream, fresh berries, or candied lime slices can add color and flair.
- Crust Types: Use regular graham crackers, shortbread cookies, or vanilla wafers if preferred.
Serving & Storage
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | Recipe yields 12 large bars or 24 smaller pieces |
| Garnishes | Powdered sugar and lime zest (optional: whipped cream) |
| Storage | Refrigerate, covered, for up to 4 days; freeze for longer storage |
| Transport | Perfect for potlucks, picnics, and travel—chilled bars hold their shape well |
What Are Key Limes?
Key limes are smaller, rounder, and more aromatic than regular Persian limes. They deliver a sharper acidity and a uniquely floral aroma. Although fresh key limes can be hard to find outside their peak season or growing regions, bottled key lime juice is a practical substitute that maintains the authentic flavor profile so crucial to this dessert.
What others are reading
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use regular lime juice instead of key lime?
A: Yes, regular lime juice will work, though the flavor may be less pronounced and slightly sweeter. Key lime juice is tangier and more authentic for this recipe.
Q: How do I know when my cheesecake bars are done baking?
A: The center should be just set but still a little jiggly. Overbaking leads to dryness and cracks; proper baking yields a smooth, creamy texture.
Q: Why do I need a water bath?
A: The water bath introduces gentle, moist heat, which protects the cheesecake from cracking and helps maintain a soft texture.
Q: Can I freeze these bars?
A: Yes. Place bars in an airtight container, separated by parchment paper. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: What is the best way to cut cheesecake bars neatly?
A: Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts for clean, neat slices.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
- Summer Picnics: Bars are portable and easy to serve at outdoor gatherings.
- Holiday Parties: Cut them into small squares for a tangy addition to any dessert table.
- Buffet Tables: Cheesecake bars hold up well at room temperature and can be made ahead.
- Afternoon Tea: Pair with sweetened iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing snack.
Nutrition Information
While Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars are undoubtedly an indulgent treat, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of an overall balanced diet. For those wanting to lighten the recipe, options include using reduced-fat cream cheese or cutting the bars into smaller pieces for portion control.
Expert Tips for Success
- Gentle Mixing: Over-mixing the batter can introduce air and cause cracks. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
- Foil Overhang: Use enough foil to create “handles” on each side, making removal easy and avoiding crumbling crusts.
- Proper Chill: Bars need time to firm up in the fridge. Make ahead for best results—the flavor deepens overnight!
- Creative Garnishing: For extra flair, add curls of lime peel or edible flowers to each bar.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Cracks:
- Prevent by using room temperature ingredients and the water bath technique.
- If cracks appear, cover with whipped cream or powdered sugar.
- Soggy Crust:
- Ensure crust is pressed firmly and evenly; use chocolate graham crackers for extra texture.
- Cool crust before adding filling if time allows.
- Overbaked Bars:
- Stick to the recommended bake and cooling times. A jiggle in the center signals creamy bars!
Conclusion
Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars blend the irresistible zest of key lime pie with the creamy richness of cheesecake in an easy-to-slice, shareable bar. With straightforward instructions, flexible ingredients, and crowd-pleasing results, this dessert becomes an instant favorite for any season or occasion.
Invest a little time in preparation and chilling, and you’ll be rewarded with bars that are tangy, creamy, and utterly delicious—sure to earn rave reviews at any table. Enjoy experimenting with toppings and serving styles, and don’t forget to savor the bright citrus notes with every bite.
References
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D0Ls7CqtcAA
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a32973050/key-lime-pie-cheesecake-bars-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a42805180/key-lime-cheesecake-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g65038618/key-lime-dessert-recipes/
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