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Key Lime Cheesecake Bars

Bright, tangy, and indulgently creamy, these Key Lime Cheesecake Bars are a sunny twist on classic cheesecake baked in a single square pan.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 full-sheet graham crackers, crushed into fine crumbs
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 ounces full-fat brick cream cheese, softened
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup key lime juice
  • 2 teaspoons lime zest
  • Optional for garnish: whipped cream and lime slices

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy lifting.
  2. Grind the graham crackers into fine crumbs and combine with the granulated sugar and melted butter.
  3. Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
  4. Prebake the crust for 10 minutes to help set it.
  5. Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the egg yolks one by one, mixing well.
  6. Gradually mix in the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest until smooth.
  7. Pour the filling over the prebaked crust and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
  8. Allow to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then chill in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 hours before cutting into squares.

Notes

Soften the cream cheese at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes to avoid lumps. Press crust tightly for a stable base. Do not overbake; filling should be slightly jiggly.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesecake, key lime, dessert, bars, summer dessert