Quick Benefits
Margarita Cheesecake is a zesty twist on the classic dessert, combining the creamy richness of traditional cheesecake with the refreshing tang of lime—just like your favorite margarita! It’s the perfect dessert for warm-weather parties, Cinco de Mayo celebrations, or anytime you want to impress your guests with something unique and indulgent. Bonus: It can be made ahead, making it stress-free for entertaining.
Essential Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2¼ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 10 tbsp salted butter, melted
- 3 tbsp sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sour cream
- 6 tbsp lime juice (fresh is best!)
- 2 tbsp lime zest
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 large egg yolks, room temperature
For the Whipped Cream Topping:
- ¾ cup + 2 tbsp heavy whipping cream, cold
- ½ tbsp lime zest
- ½ cup powdered sugar
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment and grease the sides.
- Make the crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (148°C).
- Make the filling:
- Beat cream cheese, sugar, and flour on low until smooth.
- Add sour cream, lime juice, and lime zest; mix gently.
- Add eggs one at a time, followed by the yolks, mixing slowly to keep the batter smooth.
- Bake in a water bath for 1 hour and 15 minutes, until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
- Cool the cheesecake: Let sit in the oven with the door cracked for 1 hour, then cool at room temp and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Whip the topping: Beat cold heavy cream, lime zest, and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread or pipe onto the chilled cheesecake.
- Garnish: Top with lime slices and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for that margarita flair.
Health Benefits
- Citrus Power: Lime juice and zest bring vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Protein-rich: Thanks to the cream cheese and eggs.
- Mood booster: The bright, zesty flavor can lift your spirits—cheesecake therapy, anyone?
- Customizable sweetness: Adjust sugar levels based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
- Chilled & Sliced: Serve cold with a clean sharp knife (run it under warm water for smooth cuts).
- Pair with: A fresh berry compote, mint leaves, or a margarita mocktail!
- Plating tip: Add lime wedges, sea salt sprinkles, and a small dollop of whipped cream per slice for a vibrant, plated look.
Creative Variations
- Tequila Kick: Add 1 tbsp of silver tequila to the filling for a true margarita twist (optional).
- Crust Switch: Try a pretzel crust for a salty-sweet base.
- Mini Cheesecakes: Use a muffin tin to create bite-sized versions—great for parties.
- Vegan Swap: Use dairy-free cream cheese, coconut cream, and egg substitutes.
Storage Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
- Avoid sogginess: Wait to add whipped topping until ready to serve if storing long term.
Pro Tips
- Use room temp ingredients to prevent lumps in the filling.
- Avoid overmixing after adding eggs—this can cause cracks.
- Water bath tip: Wrap your pan in foil to prevent leaks and bake evenly.
- Zest before juicing: It’s easier to zest limes while they’re whole!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use bottled lime juice?
A: Fresh lime juice gives the best flavor, but bottled works in a pinch. Always use fresh zest, though.
Q: What if I don’t have a springform pan?
A: You can use a deep cake pan with parchment and careful handling, but a springform pan gives the best results.
Q: Can I skip the water bath?
A: It’s optional, but it helps prevent cracking and ensures even baking. You can also place a pan of water on the rack below as a simpler alternative.
Q: Is this cheesecake boozy?
A: Not unless you add tequila. As-is, it’s alcohol-free and safe for all ages!
Nutrition Facts (Per Slice, Approximate – based on 12 servings)
- Calories: 493 kcal
- Total Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Sugar: 28g
- Protein: 6g
Margarita Cheesecake
Margarita Cheesecake is a luscious, creamy dessert infused with the bold citrus flavor of lime and a buttery graham cracker crust. Inspired by the classic cocktail, this cheesecake blends the refreshing zing of lime juice and zest with a smooth, rich filling, then tops it all off with a lightly sweetened whipped cream. It’s a show-stopping dessert perfect for warm-weather celebrations, dinner parties, or whenever you’re craving something zesty and indulgent.
- Total Time: 5 hours (includes cooling and chilling time)
Ingredients
2 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
10 tbsp salted butter, melted
3 tbsp sugar
24 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
1 cup sugar
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sour cream
6 tbsp lime juice
2 tbsp lime zest
3 large eggs, room temperature
2 large egg yolks, room temperature
3/4 cup plus 2 tbsp heavy whipping cream, cold
1/2 tbsp lime zest
1/2 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and prepare a 9-inch spring-form pan by lining the bottom with parchment paper and greasing the sides.
For the crust, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar together. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the pan. Pop it in the oven for 10 minutes, then let it cool.
Lower your oven temperature to 300°F (148°C). In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, and flour on low speed until everything is smooth and creamy.
Now, add the sour cream, lime juice, and lime zest. Mix until fully combined, making sure all those lovely flavors meld together.
Next, crack in the eggs, one at a time, mixing slowly after each addition to maintain a smooth texture.
Pour the velvety cheesecake filling into your cooled crust. Bake in a water bath for 1 hour and 15 minutes, until it’s set but still slightly wobbly in the middle.
For the whipped cream topping, whip the cold heavy cream along with some lime zest and powdered sugar until you see stiff peaks form.
Once the cheesecake has cooled, top it generously with your whipped cream, and don’t forget to garnish with lime slices and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for that perfect finishing touch.
Lastly, chill in the refrigerator before serving. This waiting time allows all the flavors to truly shine!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: ~493 kcal per slice (approximate)
