Lime Zest Cheesecake Bars

Name: Lime Zest Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sugar; 3 large eggs; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup fresh lime juice; Zest of 2 limes; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Cheesy Goodness

I absolutely adore these Lime Zest Cheesecake Bars! The combination of smooth cheesecake and zesty lime creates a delightful dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Every time I make them, I’m amazed by how easy and quick the recipe is, allowing me to whip them up even on busy days. Each bite is a burst of citrusy flavor, making them perfect for gatherings or just a delicious treat at home. I'm sure you'll find them as irresistible as I do!

Created by

Mia

Last updated on 2026-02-11T15:58:28.112Z

When I first tried making these Lime Zest Cheesecake Bars, I was skeptical about how the lime flavor would balance with the creaminess of the cheesecake. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the refreshing tang that the lime zest added, elevating the dessert to a whole new level. I recommend using fresh lime juice, as it imparts a brighter flavor than the bottled variety.

Another thing I discovered is that chilling the bars overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully, which makes the dessert even more delicious. It’s the perfect make-ahead treat for any occasion, and trust me, your guests will be asking for seconds!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty lime flavor that refreshes
Creamy cheesecake texture with a buttery crust
Easy to make and perfect for any gathering

      

Mastering the Crust

The crust of these Lime Zest Cheesecake Bars is key to achieving that perfect balance of texture. Using 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs provides a sweet, slightly crunchy base that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling. When mixing with melted butter and sugar, ensure the mixture resembles wet sand for optimal adhesion when pressed into the baking dish. A common mistake is not pressing the crumbs firmly enough—aim for an even layer that holds together when removed.

While graham crackers are traditional, feel free to experiment with different cookie types for your crust. Chocolate wafer cookies or shortbread can give a delightful twist. If you prefer a gluten-free option, consider almond flour mixed with a bit of sugar and melted butter. This not only maintains the flavor but contributes a nutty nuance that compliments the lime perfectly.

Filling Secrets

For the filling, room temperature cream cheese is a must. This ensures a smooth consistency, preventing lumps that can ruin the texture of your cheesecake bars. If you forget to take it out in advance, you can microwave the cream cheese in short bursts of 10 seconds; just make sure it doesn't melt. When incorporating eggs, blend them in one at a time for better emulsification—this will yield a creamier end result.

The lime juice and zest are what make these bars shine. Freshly squeezed lime juice is preferable over bottled for its brighter flavor profile. The zest adds aromatic oils, enhancing the citrus aroma. If you're short on limes, you can substitute with lemon juice and zest for a slightly different, yet equally refreshing, flavor. I often mix them to create a lovely balance.

Chilling for Perfection

Chilling the bars is crucial for achieving the right firmness. I recommend letting them cool completely to room temperature before refrigerating, as this step helps avoid condensation, which can make the crust soggy. Aim to chill them for at least 4 hours—overnight is even better, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to serve, slightly warm your knife in hot water to ensure clean cuts through the decadent filling.

Consider serving these bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of lime sorbet for an extra indulgence. They also pair wonderfully with fresh berries, which add a pop of color and additional fruity flavor. For a fun twist, you can create a fruit salsa with diced berries, mint, and a touch of lime juice to serve alongside, elevating the dessert experience even further.

Ingredients

For the crust

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
3 large eggs
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
Zest of 2 limes
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined and press the mixture into the bottom of a 9x9-inch baking dish.

Make the filling

In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Bake the bars

Pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature.

Chill and serve

Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. Cut into squares and serve chilled.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a bit of lime zest to the crust mixture as well. It enhances the overall lime experience!

Storage Tips

These Lime Zest Cheesecake Bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container to prevent drying out. If you want to make them ahead of time, they can also be frozen. Cut them into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months.

When ready to enjoy the frozen bars, transfer them to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain their luscious texture. Avoid thawing them at room temperature, as it can cause the filling to become too soft or watery.

Serving Suggestions

To serve these Lime Zest Cheesecake Bars, consider garnishing them with lime slices or a sprinkle of lime zest for a visually appealing presentation. A light dusting of powdered sugar right before serving can also enhance their appearance and add a subtle sweetness. Pairing them with beverages like iced tea or sparkling water can complement the zingy lime flavor beautifully.

If you're hosting, these bars can be cut smaller to serve as bite-sized treats for a larger crowd. Alternatively, they can be plated as a sophisticated dessert, finished with a side of berry compote or mango puree. This can add an inviting color contrast while enhancing the tropical feel of the lime.

Variations and Adaptations

Feel free to play around with the flavors in these cheesecake bars! For a tropical twist, add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the crust for added texture and richness. You can also fold in fresh blueberries or raspberries into the filling for a fruity surprise throughout the bars. Don't hesitate to experiment with other citrus fruits like orange or grapefruit—we're sure they'll yield delightful results!

If you're looking for a lower-sugar option, you can substitute half of the sugar with a sugar alternative, such as stevia or erythritol. Just be sure to check the conversion ratio on the package, as sweetness levels can vary greatly. Another great adaptation for a healthier version would be to swap out the sour cream for Greek yogurt, providing a tangy flavor along with added protein.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bottled lime juice?

While you can use bottled lime juice, fresh lime juice gives a brighter and more complex flavor.

→ How should I store the cheesecake bars?

Store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?

Yes, you can freeze the bars. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.

→ What can I serve these bars with?

These bars pair wonderfully with whipped cream or a fresh fruit compote for added flavor.