Ingredients:
Graham crackers (finely ground from 9 crackers): 1 cup
Sugar: 3 tablespoons
Kosher salt: 1/2 teaspoon
Unsalted butter (melted and cooled): 5 tablespoons
Cream cheese (room temperature): 2 packages (8 ounces each)
Sweetened condensed milk: 1 can (14 ounces)
Fresh Key lime juice: 1/3 cup
Key lime zest (grated from 16 limes): 2 teaspoons
Vanilla extract: 1/2 teaspoon
Cold heavy cream: 1/2 cup
Thinly sliced lime rounds: For garnishing
Directions:
Begin with the crust. In a bowl, whisk together the finely ground graham crackers, sugar, and kosher salt. Pour in the melted and cooled butter, blending until the mixture feels like damp sand and clumps together upon squeezing. Distribute this mixture uniformly at the base of a 9-inch springform pan, pressing gently to form an even layer. Allow this crust to chill in the freezer, firming up for approximately 15 minutes.
In the meantime, as the crust sets, let’s prepare the creamy filling. Employing an electric mixer with a paddle attachment, whisk together the room-temperature cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk on a medium-high setting. Aim for a fluffy consistency, which should take around 5 minutes. Once achieved, introduce the Key lime juice, zesty lime zest, and vanilla extract. Blend for another minute.
In a different mixing bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This whipped cream is now folded gently into the cream cheese blend. The key here is to combine without overmixing while ensuring no whipped cream lumps remain.
Retrieve your now-set crust from the freezer. Pour your creamy filling over it, spreading uniformly using an offset spatula. Once done, cover the preparation with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator. This cheesecake needs at least 12 hours to set, but waiting for up to 3 days can enhance its flavors.
After the chilling period, it’s time to unveil your masterpiece. To separate the cheesecake from the springform pan, glide a knife around its edges. Then, unlock the pan’s ring. For added flair, decorate the top of your cheesecake with thin lime pinwheels.
Slice and serve your Refreshing Lemon Cheesecake Delight. Relish the harmonious blend of citrusy zest and creamy richness in every bite. This dessert is not only a visual treat but also a delightful burst of flavors, making it a summer must-have!