No Bake Key Lime Cheesecake is a refreshing, tangy dessert that’s perfect for summer. With a smooth, creamy filling and a buttery graham cracker crust, this dessert is light yet indulgent and requires no oven time! It’s the perfect make-ahead treat for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This No Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Recipe
- Refreshing and Tangy: The key lime adds a burst of citrus flavor that’s both tart and sweet.
- No Baking Required: This easy recipe saves you from turning on the oven, making it perfect for warm weather.
- Creamy and Smooth: The cheesecake filling is velvety, with a perfect balance of tang and sweetness.
- Make-Ahead: Great for parties, gatherings, or just a quick dessert to enjoy all week.
Ingredients for No Bake Key Lime Cheesecake
To make this indulgent dessert, you’ll need:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup freshly squeezed key lime juice (or regular lime juice if unavailable)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
For Garnish (optional):
- Whipped cream
- Lime slices or zest
Tools You’ll Need
- 9-inch springform pan or pie dish
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Zester or grater for lime zest
How to Make No Bake Key Lime Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan or pie dish to form a firm, even layer. Use the back of a spoon to pack it down tightly.
- Refrigerate the crust while you prepare the filling to let it firm up (about 15 minutes).
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and fully incorporated.
Step 3: Assemble the Cheesecake
- Pour the cheesecake filling into the prepared graham cracker crust and spread it evenly.
- Smooth the top with a spatula for a clean finish.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to set completely.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Before serving, garnish with whipped cream, lime slices, or a sprinkle of lime zest for a decorative touch.
- Slice and enjoy the creamy, zesty goodness of this no-bake key lime cheesecake.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a drizzle of lime syrup or fruit compote for extra flavor.
- Pair with a chilled glass of iced tea or margarita for a summer treat.
- Top with crushed graham crackers for an added crunch.
Tips for the Best No Bake Key Lime Cheesecake
- Use Fresh Key Limes: If you can find them, fresh key limes will give your cheesecake the best flavor. If not, regular limes work just as well.
- Let it Set: Be patient and let the cheesecake set in the fridge for the full 4 hours or overnight. This ensures the filling firms up properly.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter cheesecake, you can add a little extra powdered sugar to the filling.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices of cheesecake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Let thaw in the fridge before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular lime juice instead of key lime juice?
Yes! Regular lime juice can be used in place of key lime juice if key limes are unavailable.
Can I make this cheesecake without a springform pan?
Absolutely! A pie dish or any round, deep dish will work fine. Just be sure to chill it thoroughly before serving.
Can I add other flavors to the filling?
Yes, you can easily customize the filling by adding a small amount of fruit puree, such as strawberry or raspberry, to the mixture for a different flavor twist.
Conclusion: A Simple and Refreshing Dessert
This No Bake Key Lime Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for citrus lovers. It’s creamy, tangy, and incredibly easy to make, with no baking required! Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or craving something light and refreshing, this cheesecake is sure to impress.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Cuisine: American, Dessert
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 280
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Try this no-bake cheesecake recipe today and enjoy a cool, tangy treat!
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No Bake Key Lime Cheesecake
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Description
No Bake Key Lime Cheesecake is a refreshing, tangy dessert that’s perfect for summer. With a smooth, creamy filling and a buttery graham cracker crust, this dessert is light yet indulgent and requires no oven time! It’s the perfect make-ahead treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup freshly squeezed key lime juice (or regular lime juice if unavailable)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
For Garnish (optional):
- Whipped cream
- Lime slices or zest
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan or pie dish to form a firm, even layer. Use the back of a spoon to pack it down tightly.
- Refrigerate the crust while you prepare the filling to let it firm up (about 15 minutes).
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and fully incorporated.
Step 3: Assemble the Cheesecake
- Pour the cheesecake filling into the prepared graham cracker crust and spread it evenly.
- Smooth the top with a spatula for a clean finish.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to set completely.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Before serving, garnish with whipped cream, lime slices, or a sprinkle of lime zest for a decorative touch.
- Slice and enjoy the creamy, zesty goodness of this no-bake key lime cheesecake.
Notes
- Use Fresh Key Limes: If you can find them, fresh key limes will give your cheesecake the best flavor. If not, regular limes work just as well.
- Let it Set: Be patient and let the cheesecake set in the fridge for the full 4 hours or overnight. This ensures the filling firms up properly.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter cheesecake, you can add a little extra powdered sugar to the filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time:: 4 hours (or overnight)
- Cuisine: American, Dessert