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Ultimate Creamy No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake

A close-up slice of creamy, pale green no-bake key lime cheesecake on a white plate, topped with lime zest and a lime slice.

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Make this easy, creamy, and tangy no-bake key lime cheesecake with a simple graham cracker crust. This tropical citrus dessert is perfect for summer gatherings and requires no oven time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for crust)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice (about 10-12 limes)
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs and 1/4 cup sugar in a bowl. Pour in melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Chill the crust for 15 minutes.
  2. Make the filling base: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually beat in the sweetened condensed milk until fully combined and creamy.
  3. Add flavor: Mix in the key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
  4. Whip the cream: In a separate, chilled bowl, whip the cold heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
  5. Fold together: Gently fold the whipped cream into the lime cream cheese mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Assemble: Pour the filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
  7. Chill: Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, until firm.
  8. Serve: Release the springform side before slicing and serving your tangy lime dessert.

Notes

  • For the best flavor, use fresh key lime juice; bottled juice changes the texture and taste.
  • If you do not have a springform pan, you can line a 9-inch pie dish with plastic wrap before pressing in the crust for easy removal.
  • Garnish with extra lime zest or thin lime slices before serving.

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