Florida-Inspired Thanksgiving Dessert: Key Lime Cheesecake Bars
These Key Lime Cheesecake Bars are a delightful way to bring a taste of Florida to your Thanksgiving celebration. With their tangy Key lime flavor and creamy texture, they offer a refreshing and unique twist on traditional holiday desserts.
Florida-Inspired Thanksgiving Dessert: Key Lime Cheesecake Bars
When it comes to Thanksgiving, dessert is the grand finale of the feast. If you’re looking to bring a taste of Florida to your holiday table, try these Key Lime Cheesecake Bars. Combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the tangy, zesty flavor of Key limes, this dessert offers a refreshing and tropical twist on classic Thanksgiving sweets.
The Magic of Key Limes
Key Limes: A Florida Treasure
Key limes, native to the Florida Keys, are smaller and more tart than the traditional Persian limes. Their distinctive flavor has made them a beloved ingredient in Florida cuisine. Key lime pie, a classic Floridian dessert, is renowned for its bright and tangy taste. Our Key Lime Cheesecake Bars take this beloved flavor and transform it into a deliciously creamy and indulgent treat.
Why Key Limes Work:
The tartness of Key limes cuts through the richness of cheesecake, creating a balanced and refreshing dessert. Their vibrant flavor provides a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cheesecake, making them a perfect choice for a memorable Thanksgiving dessert.
How to Make Florida-Inspired Thanksgiving Dessert: Key Lime Cheesecake Bars
Course: Dining, Drinks and More, Recipes, vacation12
servings20
minutes45
minutes300
kcalIngredients
- For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup Key lime juice (freshly squeezed or bottled)
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Topping:
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Lime zest (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar, beating until well combined. Mix in the sour cream, Key lime juice, eggs (one at a time), flour, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and well incorporated.
- Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread it out evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden. Turn off the oven and let the bars cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.
- Prepare the Topping: In a medium bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled cheesecake bars. Garnish with lime zest if desired.
- Serve: Lift the cheesecake bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Why This Dessert Works
Tropical Flavor: The Key lime provides a bright and tangy flavor that complements the creamy cheesecake filling, creating a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
Perfect for Thanksgiving: This dessert offers a unique twist on traditional Thanksgiving pies, adding a touch of Florida sunshine to your holiday table.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Key Lime Cheesecake Bars can be prepared in advance, making them a convenient option for holiday entertaining. The chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly.
These Key Lime Cheesecake Bars are a delightful way to bring a taste of Florida to your Thanksgiving celebration.
With their tangy Key lime flavor and creamy texture, they offer a refreshing and unique twist on traditional holiday desserts. Whether you’re a Florida native or just a fan of tropical flavors, this dessert is sure to impress and add a touch of sunshine to your holiday feast.
Enjoy a slice of Florida’s finest and make your Thanksgiving celebration even more memorable with this delectable dessert!
Discover more from Cruise Cocoa
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.