For individual-sized servings of my Key Lime Cheesecake, try these Key Lime Cheesecake Cups! Each parfait cup has a buttery graham cracker crust with a creamy key lime cheesecake filling. Then, each no-bake dessert is topped with whipped cream, fresh lime zest, key lime slices, and a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs. They are the perfect size for serving guests, or just treating yourself! If you are into key lime desserts, you will definitely want to try my Easy No Bake Key Lime Pie, too!
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Crust: I love a buttery graham cracker crust in cheesecake recipes, so I used it in these cheesecake cups, too! To this crust, I added key lime zest for more key lime flavor. If you want to switch things up, try a vanilla wafer, shortbread, or even Oreo cookie crust!
- Cream Cheese: Let the cream cheese come to room temperature before making the cheesecake filling. It will be mixed with confectioners’ sugar (also called powder sugar), key lime juice, key lime zest, and whipped cream.
How To Soften Cream Cheese Quickly
If you forgot to take out the cream cheese for this recipe, here are a couple of options to get it to room temperature quickly:
Warm Water Method: Place the wrapped block of cream cheese in a bowl of warm water for about 10-15 minutes. Flip it over every few minutes or so.
Microwave Method: Remove the cream cheese from its packaging and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave it on low power in 15-20-second intervals until it reaches the desired softness. Be careful not to overheat it, as cream cheese can quickly become too runny or even melt.
- Whipped Cream: The whipped cream will be folded into the cheesecake filling to create a light, airy texture. Then, have some extra on hand for the topping! Homemade whipped cream or store-bought whipped cream will work.
- Key Limes: It’s all about the key limes in this recipe! To cover the key lime juice and zest, you will need a total of 6 to 8 key limes for this recipe. (They can be pretty small, and I used 1/4 cup juice.) Zest the limes before juicing them.
- Key Lime Zest: The zest from the key limes adds a powerful flavor boost to the cheesecake cups! It’s much more concentrated than the juice alone. Be sure to have a little extra on hand for garnish.
What Is the Difference Between Key Limes and Regular Limes?
Key limes are smaller, more fragrant, and slightly yellow compared to regular limes (also known as Persian limes). They have more seeds and a tart, tangy flavor, making them ideal for Key Lime Pie and other Key Lime desserts like my Key Lime Pie Bars. In contrast, regular limes are typically sweeter and are often used in drinks, savory dishes, and cocktails.
Can I Make Key Lime Cheesecake Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can absolutely make Key Lime Cheesecake Cups ahead of time. They are perfect for prepping in advance since they need to chill for a couple of hours! Refrigerate the assembled cups (without toppings) for up to 2–3 days. Just cover them tightly with lids or plastic wrap to keep them fresh. Add whipped cream, lime zest, and other toppings just before serving so they stay light and pretty.
Can I Use Regular Limes Instead Of Key Limes?
Yes, you can use regular limes instead of key limes! The flavor will be slightly less tart and more mellow, but your cheesecake cups will still taste delicious. Use the same amount of juice and zest called for in the recipe.
How To Store Key Lime Cheesecake Cups
Store Key Lime Cheesecake Cups covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re using jars with lids, just seal and chill. For other containers, cover tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. Wait to add the toppings just before serving.
Can I Freeze Key Lime Cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze Key Lime Cheesecake Cups. Just leave off the whipped cream and toppings, then freeze the cups in freezer-safe containers, uncovered for 1–2 hours, or until firm. Once firm, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. (Or, use lids if you have them.) Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw the cheesecake cups in the refrigerator overnight, and add toppings right before serving.
Key Lime Cheesecake Cups
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups (126 g) graham cracker crumbs, about 10–12 full sheets
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup (76 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon key lime zest
Filling
- 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, room temperature
- ½ cup (62.5 g) confectioners’ sugar
- ¼ cup key lime juice, about 6-8 key limes
- 2 teaspoons key lime zest
- 2 cups (240 g) whipped cream, store-bought or homemade
Toppings (optional)
- whipped cream
- key lime zest
- key lime slices
- extra graham cracker crumbs
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and lime zest. Stir until all crumbs are evenly coated in butter. (This makes about 1 ¾ cups.)
- Evenly distribute the crust mixture into the bottoms of 6 parfait cups or jars and press lightly to form a crust. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the confectioners’ sugar, key lime juice, and key lime zest. Mix until well combined.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated and smooth. (This makes about 4 cups of the filling.)
- Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling evenly over the crust in each cup.
- Cover the cups and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
- Top with whipped cream, lime zest, lime slices, and graham cracker crumbs, if desired. Serve chilled.
Did you make this recipe?
Thank you for making my recipe! You took pictures, right? Well go ahead and post them on Instagram! Be sure to mention me @iambaker and use the hashtag #YouAreBaker.
What the Test Kitchen had to say about this recipe:
Autumn
These are so good! They have just the right amount of tang with the creaminess.
Elizabeth
I never knew that I loved key lime desserts until trying the ones we have. Each one is so good, and I love the individual servings of these.
Bella
These are super creamy and refreshing. Perfect for summer!
Annabelle
These would make a wonderful summertime treat. They are easy and delicious!
Stephanie
The individual servings of these desserts make them so fun. And, you don't even have to turn on the oven!
