Key Lime Cheesecake Jars

This creamy no-bake key lime cheesecake served in individual jars combines the perfect balance of tangy citrus and sweet creaminess with a buttery graham cracker base. The layers create a beautiful presentation while offering a refreshing dessert that's perfect for summer gatherings or any special occasion.

I first made these key lime cheesecake jars for a backyard barbecue when the temperature was too hot to turn on the oven. They were such a hit that they've become my signature dessert for warm-weather gatherings.

Ingredients

• Graham cracker crumbs: these provide the perfect crunchy foundation with their slightly sweet honey flavor and distinctive texture
• Melted butter: binds the crust together and adds rich flavor; look for unsalted butter for better control of overall sweetness
• Cream cheese: the star ingredient that creates the cheesecake texture; choose full-fat cream cheese at room temperature for the smoothest result
• Sweetened condensed milk: provides sweetness and creates the signature silky texture that makes this dessert irresistible
• Key lime juice: delivers the characteristic tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the cheesecake; fresh is best but bottled works well too
• Vanilla extract: balances the tartness with subtle warmth; use pure rather than imitation for the best flavor
• Heavy whipping cream: when whipped creates a light and airy texture that transforms the dessert into something special
• Lime zest: adds bright color and intensifies the lime flavor; use organic limes if possible for zesting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Create the crust:

Thoroughly combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. The butter should be completely incorporated with no dry spots. Divide this mixture evenly among your serving jars, pressing down firmly with the back of a spoon to create a compact base that will hold together when served.

Prepare the cream cheese base:

Beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl using an electric mixer for about 3 minutes until completely smooth and free of lumps. This step is crucial for a silky texture, so be patient and scrape down the sides of the bowl frequently to ensure even mixing.

Add wet ingredients:

Pour in the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed for 2 minutes until the mixture becomes uniform and slightly thickened. The acid in the lime juice will begin to react with the dairy ingredients, creating a natural thickening effect.

Whip the cream:

In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This typically takes 3 to 4 minutes with an electric mixer at high speed. The cream should hold its shape firmly when the beater is lifted but still look smooth rather than grainy.

Combine the mixtures:

Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a rubber spatula. Work with a light hand using a figure-eight motion, cutting through the center and folding over the sides. Continue until fully incorporated with no white streaks, but avoid overmixing which would deflate the air in the whipped cream.

Assemble the jars:

Transfer the filling to a piping bag or use a spoon to carefully layer the cheesecake mixture over the graham cracker bases. Fill each jar nearly to the top, leaving just enough room for garnish. Smooth the tops for a professional presentation.

Chill thoroughly:

Cover each jar with plastic wrap or lids if available and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly for the perfect texture.

Garnish and serve:

Just before serving, top each jar with freshly grated lime zest for a pop of color and extra lime flavor. For special occasions, add a small lime slice or a mint leaf for an elegant presentation.

You Must Know

Key lime juice is the secret weapon in this recipe. My grandmother who lived in Florida for decades always insisted on authentic key limes for their distinctive tart flavor. When I make these jars, I'm immediately transported to her sunlit kitchen where she taught me that quality ingredients make all the difference.

Make-Ahead Magic

These cheesecake jars actually improve with time as the flavors meld together in the refrigerator. You can prepare them up to two days in advance of serving, making them ideal for entertaining. The graham cracker base stays surprisingly crisp thanks to the insulating layer of cheesecake filling that protects it from moisture. For the freshest presentation, save the lime zest garnish until just before serving to maintain its bright green color and aromatic qualities.

Creative Variations

While the classic key lime version is hard to beat, this versatile recipe can be adapted in numerous ways. Try substituting the key lime juice with lemon juice for a traditional lemon cheesecake, or use passion fruit puree for a tropical twist. For chocolate lovers, add a layer of chocolate ganache between the crust and filling. During holiday seasons, incorporate seasonal flavors like pumpkin puree and cinnamon in fall or peppermint extract and crushed candy canes in winter.

Serving Suggestions

These portable desserts shine at outdoor gatherings where their individual servings eliminate the need for cutting and plating. For an elevated presentation at dinner parties, serve them on small plates with a sprig of mint and a few fresh berries. They pair beautifully with coffee, especially espresso, which cuts through the richness. For a complete dessert experience, offer a platter of these jars alongside chocolate truffles and fresh fruit for a dessert buffet that will impress any guest.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use regular lime juice instead of key lime juice?

Yes, regular lime juice works perfectly as a substitute for key lime juice in this dessert. The flavor will be slightly less tangy but still delicious. You may want to add a bit more lime zest to enhance the citrus flavor.

→ How far in advance can I make these cheesecake jars?

These cheesecake jars can be prepared up to 5 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This makes them perfect for planning ahead for parties or gatherings. Add the lime zest garnish just before serving for the freshest presentation.

→ Can I freeze these key lime cheesecake jars?

Yes, these cheesecake jars freeze well. Seal them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. The texture might be slightly different but still delicious.

→ What size jars work best for this dessert?

8-ounce mason jars or similar sized glass containers work best for this dessert. This size provides the perfect portion and allows for distinct layers of crust and filling. Make sure your jars are clean and dry before assembling.

→ How do I know when my heavy cream is whipped to stiff peaks?

Cream has reached stiff peaks when you can turn the whisk upside down and the peaks stand straight up without falling over. The cream should be firm enough to hold its shape but still smooth and not grainy, which would indicate it's been over-whipped.

→ Can I make this dessert lower in calories?

Yes, you can create a lighter version by using low-fat cream cheese, fat-free condensed milk, and a lighter graham cracker crust (using less butter). The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will still be delicious with fewer calories.