If you crave a dessert that perfectly balances tropical sweetness with tangy zest, this Mango Key Lime Cheesecake Recipe is destined to become your new favorite. Creamy and luscious layers of mango and key lime mingle seamlessly in a buttery graham cracker crust, creating a taste sensation that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Whether you’re serving it at a sunny summer gathering or simply treating yourself after a long day, this cheesecake brings a vibrant splash of color and flavor that’s impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Mango Key Lime Cheesecake Recipe are delightfully straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in building depth of flavor, creamy texture, and that vibrant tropical hue you’ll love. From the buttery graham cracker crust to the tangy hint of fresh key lime, every component elevates the cheesecake into something truly special.
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs: Provides a crunchy and flavorful base that holds the cheesecake together perfectly.
- 1/3 cup sugar: Sweetens the crust and enhances the golden-brown color when baked.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the graham cracker crumbs while adding rich buttery notes.
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened: The star ingredient for an ultra-smooth and creamy cheesecake filling.
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetens and balances the tanginess of the key lime.
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps stabilize the filling and create a perfect slice.
- 3/4 cup mango puree: Infuses the cheesecake with bright tropical flavor and sunny color.
- 2 tbsp key lime juice: Adds a burst of fresh zestiness that brightens the entire dish.
- Zest of 1 key lime: Intensifies the citrus aroma and flavor beautifully.
- 3 large eggs: Provides structure while keeping the filling creamy.
- 1/3 cup sour cream: Adds a slight tang and richness for a luscious texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with warm notes.
- 1 cup mango puree (for topping): Layers on an extra burst of fresh mango sweetness.
- 2 tbsp sugar (for topping): Balances the tartness in the mango topping.
- 1 tbsp key lime juice (for topping): Keeps the topping bright and lively.
- 1 tsp gelatin powder: Gives the topping a smooth, gelled finish.
- 2 tbsp water: Helps bloom the gelatin properly.
- Fresh mango and key lime slices (for garnish): Adds an elegant and fresh decorative touch.
How to Make Mango Key Lime Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter, mixing until the crumbs are evenly coated and hold together when pressed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a compact crust. Bake for 10 minutes to set the base, then remove from the oven and let it cool. This step ensures a sturdy yet tender crust that forms the perfect foundation for your cheesecake.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and free of lumps. Add the sugar and flour, continuing to mix until fully combined. Then stir in the mango puree, key lime juice, and key lime zest, blending everything into a vibrant, fragrant filling. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition to avoid incorporating too much air. Finally, fold in the sour cream and vanilla extract for a creamy, tangy finish that will set beautifully as it bakes.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the luscious filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top gently with a spatula. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. The cheesecake should appear set around the edges but still have a slight wobble in the center—this helps guarantee that creamy texture once chilled. Once baked, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before transferring it to the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to chill and firm up.
Step 4: Prepare the Mango Key Lime Topping
While the cheesecake chills, prepare the topping by sprinkling the gelatin powder over the water and letting it bloom for a few minutes. Warm the mango puree with sugar and key lime juice in a small saucepan just until the sugar dissolves. Stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved, ensuring a smooth, glossy finish. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before carefully pouring it over the chilled cheesecake. Return the cheesecake to the fridge and let the topping set completely, creating a refreshing contrast to the rich filling.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, decorate the cheesecake with fresh mango slices and thin key lime wedges. These garnishes don’t just add beauty; they bring an extra pop of fresh fruitiness that complements the flavors perfectly. Now your Mango Key Lime Cheesecake Recipe is ready to wow your taste buds and impress your friends!
How to Serve Mango Key Lime Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh mango slices and key lime wedges are classic garnishes for this cheesecake, offering bursts of juicy sweetness and citrusy brightness. You can also drizzle a little extra mango puree or sprinkle finely chopped mint leaves for a touch of herbal freshness. These thoughtful garnishes elevate the dessert, making every bite as pretty as it is delicious.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs beautifully with light, complementary sides like a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of coconut sorbet. The cool creaminess contrasts nicely with the zesty key lime and mango flavors. For a more indulgent treat, serve alongside salted caramel sauce or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes to add texture and complexity.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform your Mango Key Lime Cheesecake Recipe into a show-stopping dessert centerpiece by serving it in individual portions. Use mini springform pans or mason jars layered with the crust, filling, and topping for a charming presentation. Alternatively, try topping with edible flowers or bright fruit compotes for a burst of color that’s sure to get guests talking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cheesecake should be kept tightly covered in the refrigerator to prevent drying out and absorbing other food odors. Wrapped carefully, it will stay fresh and delicious for up to four days, making it perfect for enjoying slice by slice over the week.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this Mango Key Lime Cheesecake Recipe well in advance, freezing works wonderfully. Wrap the whole cheesecake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. When stored properly, the cheesecake will maintain its taste and texture for up to two months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
Cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is generally not recommended as it can alter the texture. However, if you prefer a softer slice, you can let it sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before serving, allowing it to soften slightly while retaining its delicious creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use regular lime instead of key lime?
Yes! While key lime lends a distinct, slightly more intense flavor, regular lime juice can be substituted with excellent results. Just keep in mind that the flavor might be a little less tart and aromatic.
How ripe should the mangoes be for the puree?
Choose ripe mangoes that are fragrant and slightly soft to the touch. Ripe mangoes provide natural sweetness and vibrant color, making your puree and the entire cheesecake taste brighter and more flavorful.
Is gelatin necessary for the topping?
The gelatin is important to give the mango-key lime topping a stable, glossy finish that holds its shape. Without it, the topping may be runny and less visually appealing, but you could try using agar-agar or skip the topping entirely if you prefer.
Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap the graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free graham crackers or finely crushed gluten-free cookies. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so the cheesecake will still be delicious.
Why does the cheesecake need sour cream?
Sour cream adds a subtle tang and creaminess that balances the sweetness and acidity of the mango and key lime, while also contributing to a smooth, luscious texture in the filling.
Final Thoughts
This Mango Key Lime Cheesecake Recipe is a dazzling fusion of tropical brightness and creamy comfort that’s bound to impress at any occasion. From its golden crust to its glossy topping, every layer sings with vibrant flavor and irresistible texture. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this cheesecake a try—you might just find it becoming your go-to dessert for sunny days and special celebrations alike.
Print
Mango Key Lime Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Mango Key Lime Cheesecake combines the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the tropical freshness of mango and tangy key lime. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a luscious mango and key lime infused cream cheese filling, and a smooth mango key lime gelatin topping, this dessert is a perfect balance of sweet and tart. Garnished with fresh mango and key lime slices, it’s an elegant and refreshing treat perfect for any celebration.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup mango puree
- 2 tbsp key lime juice
- Zest of 1 key lime
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the mango key lime topping:
- 1 cup mango puree
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp key lime juice
- 1 tsp gelatin powder
- 2 tbsp water
Additional:
- Fresh mango slices and key lime slices for garnishing
Instructions
- Prepare crust: Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes to set, then remove and allow to cool.
- Make filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar and flour until smooth and creamy. Mix in the mango puree, key lime juice, and zest thoroughly. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition until fully incorporated. Finally, stir in sour cream and vanilla extract until well blended.
- Bake cheesecake: Pour the cream cheese filling evenly over the cooled crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but has a slight wobble in the center. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours to chill and set completely.
- Prepare topping: Sprinkle gelatin powder over water and let it bloom for several minutes. In a saucepan, warm the mango puree with sugar and key lime juice until the sugar dissolves but do not boil. Stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved. Allow the mixture to cool slightly to room temperature.
- Assemble topping: Pour the cooled mango key lime gelatin mixture gently over the chilled cheesecake. Place the cheesecake back in the refrigerator and chill until the topping is fully set.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, decorate the cheesecake with fresh mango slices and key lime slices for an attractive presentation and added freshness.
Notes
- Make sure cream cheese is softened for a smooth filling.
- Do not overbake the cheesecake; it should be slightly jiggly in the center.
- Blooming gelatin is essential for proper setting of the topping.
- The cheesecake needs at least 4 hours refrigeration, preferably overnight, for best texture and flavor.
- Use fresh mango puree for the best tropical flavor, can substitute with frozen mango puree if fresh is unavailable.
