Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars

Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars combine tart and sweet flavors to create an indulgent, refreshing dessert experience. The burst of citrus flavors from fresh Key lime juice beautifully marries with the creamy richness of cream cheese, providing a smooth and luscious texture that is perfectly balanced by the crunchy, golden graham cracker and coconut crust. The addition of unsweetened shredded coconut gives an extra layer of flavor and texture, making each bite a delightful treat.

What You’ll Need for Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars

To create these delicious Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars, you’ll need a selection of specific ingredients. It’s essential to gather everything beforehand to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Complete Ingredients List

1. Cooking spray
2. 1 1/4 cups finely ground graham cracker crumbs
3. 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
4. 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
5. 1/4 cup granulated sugar
6. 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
7. 2 (8-oz.) blocks cream cheese, room temperature
8. 1/3 cup granulated sugar
9. 3 large eggs
10. 1/2 cup coconut cream
11. 1/3 cup fresh Key lime juice
12. 1/4 teaspoon coconut extract
13. 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
14. Whipped cream, for topping
15. 1/2 cup toasted sweetened shredded coconut flakes
16. Key lime zest and wheels, for serving

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, here are some ingredient substitutions:

• Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative made from cashews or soy. Use vegan butter in place of regular butter.
• Gluten-Free: Choose gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or ground oats as a base for the crust.
• Sugar-Free: Replace granulated sugar with a sugar alternative like erythritol or a natural sweetener such as stevia. Adjust quantities according to sweetness preference.

For added creativity, consider incorporating flavors such as vanilla bean, tropical fruits, or even a hint of almond extract into the cheesecake filling.

How to Make Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars

Making Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars involves a series of straightforward steps that result in a delightful dessert. Let’s break it down step-by-step.

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9″ square baking pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang for easy removal later. Grease the parchment paper as well to prevent sticking.

In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, unsweetened shredded coconut, melted butter, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Mix them together until you achieve a sandy texture. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan and press it evenly into the bottom using the back of a measuring cup or your fingers. This will create a solid base for your cheesecake bars.

Bake the crust in the preheated oven for approximately 10 to 12 minutes or until it turns lightly golden brown. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, begin by beating the room temperature cream cheese and 1/3 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which will take about 2 minutes. This is a crucial step, as it helps to create a creamy and airy texture.

Next, add in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Continue mixing until well combined. Then, add in the coconut cream, fresh Key lime juice, coconut extract, and 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt. Beat the mixture until it is smooth and free of lumps, which should take an additional minute.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the cheesecake filling into the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Carefully place the pan back into the oven and bake the cheesecake for about 40 to 45 minutes. You want it to be just set; the center should still have a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan.

Once baked, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. Once it reaches room temperature, cover it and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to solidify and enhance the flavors.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

After chilling, you can use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cheesecake from the baking pan onto a cutting board. With a sharp knife, slice it into even bars. For the perfect touch, top each bar with a generous dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of toasted shredded coconut, and a garnish of Key lime zest. You may also add lime wheels for a beautiful presentation.

Serve these delightful cheesecake bars chilled for the best flavor and texture experience.

Serving Suggestions for Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars

How to Serve Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars

Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars are best served chilled, making them a perfect refreshment on warm days or at gatherings. Ensure they are cut into even squares or rectangles for a neat presentation, and serve them on a stylish platter to impress your guests.

To keep the bars looking fabulous, consider placing them atop a bed of finely shredded coconut or on plates garnished with zesty lime wedges.

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

For added flavor and visual appeal, consider pairing your cheesecake bars with fresh tropical fruits, such as mango or pineapple slices. You can drizzle a sweet lime or coconut glaze over the bars or serve them alongside a coconut-flavored ice cream or sorbet for a truly decadent dessert.

The whipped cream can also be flavored with a touch of vanilla or additional lime zest for an extra kick that complements the Key lime and coconut profile beautifully.

Storing & Preserving Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars

Keeping your Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars fresh is essential for retaining their delicious flavors and textures.

Best Storage Methods

To store your cheesecake bars, simply place the cooled and sliced bars in an airtight container. If storing in the fridge, they should kept for up to 5 days. Ensure that the container is sealed tightly to prevent moisture loss and to keep the bars from absorbing any odors from the fridge.

If you wish to keep them longer, you can freeze the bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen cheesecake bars can last up to 3 months without losing their quality.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

It is advisable to serve Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars chilled rather than reheated, as the texture may change when heated. If you have frozen them, allow them to defrost in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight before serving. This method ensures that the bars retain their creamy consistency and flavor.

Tips for Perfect Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars Every Time

Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Overmixing: When incorporating the eggs and other ingredients, avoid mixing too long to prevent air bubbles from forming, which can cause cracks in the cheesecake.
• Undercooking: Make sure not to pull the cheesecake out of the oven too early, as it might not set properly. Always aim for the slightly jiggly center for the perfect finish.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Begin with ingredients that are at room temperature, especially the cream cheese. This will ensure a smoother mixture without lumps.

Helpful Tricks for Success

For added ease, line the baking pan with parchment paper overlapping the edges, making it easier to lift the cheesecake out for slicing. Consider using a sharp, hot knife for cutting the bars to achieve clean edges.

To save on time, prepare the graham cracker crust a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully before baking the filling.

Fun Variations of Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

For a twist on these bars, consider adding in some tropical fruits, such as diced pineapple or mangos, into the cheesecake filling. You might also try swirling in some passionfruit puree for an exotic touch. If you enjoy chocolate, a drizzle of melted dark or white chocolate on top before serving would create an indulgent palette.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

For a vegan version, swap out the cream cheese for a plant-based alternative and use flax eggs or applesauce for the eggs. Opt for a gluten-free crust or use almond flour combined with coconut flour to replace the graham crackers. With these substitutions, you can enjoy a creamy cheesecake that aligns with various dietary preferences.

FAQs

What If My Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars Don’t Turn Out Right?

Common issues with cheesecake bars include issues with the texture or flavor not setting right. If the bars come out too dry, this could be due to overbaking. Keep a close eye on them in the oven and remember that they will continue to firm up as they cool. On the other hand, if your bars are too wet or jiggly, they may have been underbaked, so ensure you follow the baking time closely.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

Absolutely! In fact, these bars taste even better after they’ve had time to chill in the fridge. You can prepare the bars a day in advance or even longer if frozen. Just ensure they are sealed tightly, and they can be stored for later enjoyment.

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

If you find certain ingredients difficult to find, you can certainly make adjustments. For instance, fresh Key limes can be replaced with regular limes. If coconut cream isn’t available, you might substitute it with heavy cream mixed with shredded coconut, though the texture would differ slightly.

With these rich, creamy Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars, a refreshing dessert awaits that captures the essence of tropical bliss. With a few tips and variations, this recipe can become a staple to impress guests or indulge in a sweet treat yourself. Enjoy crafting this delightful dessert that’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser!

Print