Recipe Details

• Author: deesviral
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Chill Time: 3 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 55 minutes
• Yield: 16 bars
• Category: Dessert / Bars
• Cuisine: American
• Keywords: key lime cheesecake bars, cheesecake bars, lime dessert, deesviral

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup sour cream
• ⅓ cup key lime juice
• 1 tablespoon lime zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined.
3. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
4. Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes, then remove and let cool slightly.
5. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
6. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined.
7. Mix in sour cream, key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
8. Pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly.
9. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the center is just set.
10. Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before slicing into bars.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh key lime juice for the brightest flavor.
• Chill overnight for even cleaner slices.
• Top with whipped cream and extra lime zest for a pretty finish.

Why This Recipe Works

The buttery graham crust balances the creamy, tangy filling perfectly. Sour cream adds silkiness, while key lime juice and zest bring a fresh citrus flavor that keeps the bars light and refreshing without losing that classic cheesecake richness.