Description
This Key Lime Cheesecake offers a perfect balance of tangy key lime flavor and creamy texture nestled on a buttery graham cracker crust, making every bite a luscious delight ideal for any dessert lover.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup key lime juice
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake evenly.
- Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter thoroughly to create a crumbly mixture that will hold together.
- Form the Crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust layer.
- Mix Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time to the cream cheese mixture, beating well after each addition to ensure smooth incorporation.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the key lime juice, key lime zest, and vanilla extract until the filling is fully combined and uniformly flavored.
- Assemble Cheesecake: Pour the prepared filling over the crust in the springform pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Bake the cheesecake for 50 to 60 minutes, until the center is set but still slightly jiggly for a creamy texture.
- Cool in Oven: Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door ajar for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Chill: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to fully set the filling and enhance flavors before serving.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature to prevent lumps in the filling.
- Press the crust firmly to avoid crumbly texture when slicing the cheesecake.
- Letting the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven helps prevent cracks on the surface.
- For best flavor, refrigerate overnight to allow the cheesecake to fully set and flavors to develop.
- Use fresh key limes if available for the most authentic and vibrant flavor.
