These No-Bake Lime Cheesecake Bars are a refreshing and creamy dessert that combines the tangy flavor of lime with a smooth, rich cheesecake filling, all on top of a crunchy graham cracker crust. They are easy to make, requiring no baking, and come together in just a few steps. These bars are the perfect treat for warm weather, offering a cool, light dessert that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. With a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, these cheesecake bars are a hit at any gathering.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 12-16 bars
Cuisine
This no-bake lime cheesecake recipe is inspired by traditional cheesecake but with a zesty lime twist. It’s a perfect dessert for anyone looking for a cool, creamy treat without the hassle of baking.
Full List of Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 200g (7 oz) graham crackers or digestive biscuits, crushed
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 450g (16 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (100g) sugar
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) freshly squeezed lime juice (about 2 limes)
- Zest of 2 limes
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon powdered gelatin (optional, for a firmer set)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Prepare the Crust:
In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers and sugar. Add the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are well coated.
Press the mixture into the bottom of an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking dish or similar-sized pan. Use the back of a spoon to firmly press the crust into an even layer. Place the crust in the fridge to set while you prepare the filling. -
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
Gradually add the sugar, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese, and beat until well combined.
Gently fold in the whipped cream until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. -
Optional: Add Gelatin for a Firmer Texture:
If you want a firmer set for the cheesecake, dissolve the powdered gelatin in 2 tablespoons of warm water. Stir the dissolved gelatin into the cream cheese mixture. If you prefer a softer set, you can skip the gelatin. -
Assemble the Bars:
Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until the cheesecake is set. -
Serve:
Once the bars are fully set, slice them into squares or rectangles. Serve chilled, and enjoy the refreshing lime flavor and creamy texture of these no-bake cheesecake bars.
Nutritional Information (per bar)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 3 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
- Vitamin A: 8%
- Calcium: 4%
- Iron: 2%
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Cheesecake bars are a convenient, portion-controlled version of the classic cheesecake, and the no-bake variety became especially popular for its ease of preparation. Lime, with its tangy flavor, adds a fresh twist to traditional cheesecake. These bars are perfect for warm weather and make a great addition to summer parties, potlucks, or casual gatherings.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
- No Baking Required: These bars are simple to prepare without the need for an oven, making them perfect for a quick, no-fuss dessert.
- Refreshing Lime Flavor: The tangy lime adds a bright and refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy cheesecake filling.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, these cheesecake bars are a breeze to make.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out the lime for other fruits, like lemon or orange, for a different flavor profile.
Health Benefits
- Cream Cheese: Provides calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle repair.
- Lime: A great source of vitamin C, which supports the immune system and skin health.
- Graham Crackers: While high in carbs, graham crackers provide a small amount of fiber when used as a crust.
Serving Suggestions
- With Fresh Berries: Top each bar with fresh berries like raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries for a burst of color and added flavor.
- With Whipped Cream: Serve these cheesecake bars with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- With a Cup of Tea or Coffee: These bars pair beautifully with a hot beverage for a satisfying snack or dessert.
- Garnished with Lime Slices: Garnish the bars with thin slices of lime for a decorative and fresh touch.
Cooking Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth filling.
- Chill Overnight: For the best texture, allow the cheesecake bars to chill overnight, which will help them set firmly and slice cleanly.
- Use Fresh Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice provides a much better flavor than bottled juice, adding a brighter, fresher taste.
Variations to Try
- Berry Cheesecake Bars: Add a layer of mixed berries or berry compote on top of the cheesecake filling for a fruity twist.
- Chocolate Lime Cheesecake Bars: Drizzle a bit of melted chocolate over the top of the bars or mix cocoa powder into the filling for a chocolatey flavor.
- Graham Cracker Crust Variations: For a different texture, try using crushed shortbread cookies or digestive biscuits instead of graham crackers.
Conclusion
These No-Bake Lime Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert for when you want something light, refreshing, and easy to prepare. With a smooth and creamy filling, a crunchy graham cracker crust, and a zesty lime flavor, they are sure to become a favorite at your next gathering. Whether you’re serving them at a summer party, a casual dinner, or as a treat for yourself, these cheesecake bars are always a crowd-pleaser.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
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Can I make these cheesecake bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars are perfect for making ahead. They need to be chilled for at least 4 hours, but overnight chilling is best for a firmer texture. -
Can I use a different fruit instead of lime?
Yes, you can substitute lime juice with lemon juice or even orange juice for a different citrus flavor. You can also try using other fruits like raspberries or strawberries. -
Do I need to bake the crust?
No, the crust doesn’t need to be baked. Simply press the graham cracker mixture into the pan and chill it while preparing the filling. -
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version of these bars, though the texture may be slightly different. -
Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?
Yes, you can freeze the bars. Allow them to chill completely first, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1-2 months. -
Can I make these cheesecake bars without gelatin?
Yes, gelatin is optional in this recipe. If you prefer a softer texture, you can omit it, and the bars will still be delicious. -
How can I make these bars more colorful?
Add fresh fruit on top, such as berries or citrus slices, for a pop of color and added flavor. -
Can I use store-bought crust?
Yes, you can use a pre-made graham cracker crust if you prefer a shortcut, though homemade crust adds a fresher taste. -
How do I slice the cheesecake bars?
Use a sharp knife or a serrated knife to slice the bars, cleaning the blade between cuts to keep the slices neat. -
Can I add a chocolate layer?
Yes, you can add a layer of melted chocolate over the cheesecake filling before chilling it for an indulgent chocolate-lime combination.
Enjoy your No-Bake Lime Cheesecake Bars!