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No Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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4.4 from 9 reviews

These No Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Bars are a refreshing and creamy dessert perfect for warm weather. Featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust and a tangy key lime cheesecake filling, they require no oven and set in the fridge, making them easy and convenient to prepare. Topped with additional whipped cream and lime zest, these bars offer a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors in a deliciously smooth texture.

Ingredients

Graham Cracker Crust

  • 1½ cups graham crackers (910 whole crackers)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)

Key Lime Cheesecake Filling

  • ⅔ cup heavy whipping cream (cold)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
  • 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
  • ½ cup key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest

Instructions

  1. Prepare Graham Cracker Crust: In a food processor, combine graham crackers, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon (if using), and melted butter. Process until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  2. Form the Crust: Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of a foil-lined 8×8-inch pan using your hands or the bottom of a glass. Place the crust in the freezer to set while you prepare the filling.
  3. Whip the Cream: In a medium bowl, use a hand mixer to whisk the cold heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. This will add lightness to the cheesecake filling.
  4. Mix Cream Cheese Base: In a separate bowl, stir the softened cream cheese until smooth. Then mix in the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest until well combined.
  5. Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture just until combined, being careful not to deflate the airy texture.
  6. Assemble Bars: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the frozen graham cracker crust, spread evenly, cover, and refrigerate overnight to set firmly.
  7. Optional Freezer Step: To set the cheesecake faster and ensure clean slicing, transfer the pan to the freezer for a few hours before cutting.
  8. Serve: Cut the cheesecake into 10 rectangular bars or 16 squares. Optionally top with extra whipped cream, lime slices, and lime zest before serving.

Notes

  • Using key lime juice is preferred for authentic flavor, but regular lime juice works well as a substitute.
  • For best results, allow the cheesecake bars to chill overnight to fully set.
  • The optional cinnamon in the crust adds depth of flavor but can be omitted if desired.
  • Freeze leftovers to maintain firmness and freshness.
  • To soften cream cheese quickly, leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.