Make this creamy, tangy no-bake key lime cheesecake for a refreshing summer dessert. It features a buttery graham cracker crust and bright citrus filling that impresses guests.
Author:ariasterling
Prep Time:20 min
Cook Time:0 min
Total Time:6 hr 20 min
Yield:10 servings 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:No-Bake
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for crust)
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup fresh key lime juice (about 6–8 limes)
1 tablespoon key lime zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: Whipped cream and extra lime slices for topping
Instructions
Prepare the crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs and 1/4 cup sugar in a medium bowl. Pour in melted butter and stir until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Chill the crust in the freezer for 15 minutes while you prepare the filling.
Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
Gradually beat in the sweetened condensed milk until fully combined and smooth.
Add the key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Mix on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix once the lime juice is added.
Pour the key lime filling over the chilled graham cracker crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Chill the cheesecake: Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, until the cheesecake is firm.
To serve, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan. Top with whipped cream and extra lime slices if desired. Slice and serve this refreshing cheesecake dessert.
Notes
Use fresh key lime juice for the best, brightest citrus flavor. Bottled juice changes the texture slightly.
If you want individual servings, press the crust mixture into the bottoms of lined muffin tins to make mini key lime cheesecakes.
For an extra impressive party dessert, use a handheld electric mixer to swirl a thin layer of lime curd into the top of the filling before chilling.