If you adore the rich creaminess of cheesecake paired with vibrant tropical flavors, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Mango Key Lime Cheesecake Recipe. It’s a luscious dessert that perfectly balances the tangy brightness of Key lime with the sweet, sunny notes of mango, creating a beautiful celebration of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a sunny afternoon gathering or a special occasion, this cheesecake promises to be the star of your dessert table with its silky texture and refreshing zest.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this Mango Key Lime Cheesecake Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role, from the buttery, crunchy crust that anchors the dessert to the silky mango-lime filling that melts in your mouth.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Provide the perfect crunchy base with a hint of sweetness and a classic cheesecake touch.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the crust and filling, helping balance the tartness of the lime and mango.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and binds the crust ingredients together for that ideal crumbly texture.
- Cream cheese: The star of the filling, lending creaminess and a smooth, dense body to the cheesecake.
- Mango puree: Offers a fresh, tropical sweetness and gorgeous golden color that brightens the dessert.
- Key lime juice: Infuses a zesty tartness that perfectly complements the mango’s sweetness.
- Eggs: Help set the filling, creating that traditional cheesecake firmness with a creamy consistency.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, subtle aroma that deepens the overall flavor profile.
- Cornstarch: Stabilizes the filling, ensuring it holds its shape beautifully when sliced.
- Lime zest: Enhances the topping with an extra burst of fresh lime flavor.
- Fresh mango cubes, lime slices, and mint leaves: Perfect for a colorful, inviting fruit garnish that adds texture and freshness.
How to Make Mango Key Lime Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes to set the crust, then let it cool completely before adding your filling. This step is vital to avoid a soggy base and creates the perfect crunchy foundation for this luscious cheesecake.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the sugar until wonderfully smooth and fluffy. This is the key to a creamy texture that melts on your tongue. Next, add the mango puree, Key lime juice, eggs, vanilla extract, and cornstarch. Blend everything until the mixture is silky and well combined. Pour this heavenly mango-lime filling over your cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula for that picture-perfect finish.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Bake your cheesecake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly—it will continue to firm up as it cools. For best results, turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for an hour. This gentle cooling prevents cracks by allowing it to set gradually. After this, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight for the flavors to meld and the texture to fully develop its silky richness.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
While the cheesecake chills, bring together the mango puree, sugar, and lime zest in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir often and cook for about 5 minutes until the topping thickens to a luscious glaze. Let it cool completely before gently spreading it on top of the chilled cheesecake. Fresh mango cubes, lime slices, and mint leaves add that final pop of color and fresh flavor to crown your masterpiece.
How to Serve Mango Key Lime Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing this dessert brings it to life visually and flavor-wise. Fresh mango cubes add juicy bursts with every bite, lime slices offer an extra citrusy punch, and mint leaves provide a refreshing aroma and color contrast. Together, they make every slice irresistible and Instagram-worthy.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs beautifully with simple, light accompaniments to balance its richness. Try serving it alongside a small bowl of fresh berries or a dollop of lightly whipped cream infused with a hint of lime zest. A crisp cup of iced green tea or a tropical cocktail can also elevate the entire dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to wow your guests? Serve individual slices in clear glass dessert cups layered with extra mango puree and crushed graham crackers for a deconstructed take. Or create mini cheesecakes using a muffin tin for bite-sized tropical treats. Adding edible flowers or sprinkling toasted coconut on top can amplify the tropical vibe and visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Mango Key Lime Cheesecake Recipe is made, you can store leftovers in the refrigerator covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next day’s slice just as delightful as freshly served. It stays fresh for up to four days, so enjoying it over several days is easy and tempting.
Freezing
If you want to keep the cheesecake longer, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap the whole or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. When properly frozen, the cheesecake maintains its flavor and texture for up to two months. Remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
Cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating isn’t typically necessary or recommended. However, if you prefer it slightly warmer, let the slice sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. This brings out the creamy texture without melting the topping or compromising the fresh fruit garnish.
FAQs
Can I use regular lime juice instead of Key lime juice?
Absolutely! While Key lime juice has a unique tartness, regular lime juice works perfectly well and will still give you that delightful citrus kick in the Mango Key Lime Cheesecake Recipe.
Is it necessary to use cornstarch in the filling?
Cornstarch helps stabilize the cheesecake filling, ensuring it sets nicely and slices cleanly. You can omit it, but the texture may be slightly softer and less firm.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
With some ingredient swaps like vegan cream cheese and coconut oil instead of butter, you can adapt this Mango Key Lime Cheesecake Recipe to be dairy-free, though texture and flavor may vary slightly.
How ripe should the mango be for the puree?
Choose mangoes that are ripe but still firm to get the perfect balance of sweetness and flavor. Overripe mangoes may make the filling too liquidy.
Can I add shredded coconut to the crust as a twist?
Yes! Adding shredded coconut to the crust brings an extra layer of flavor and texture, enhancing the tropical vibe of the Mango Key Lime Cheesecake Recipe wonderfully.
Final Thoughts
This Mango Key Lime Cheesecake Recipe is such a joyful dessert to make and share. With its creamy texture, bright citrus zing, and tropical sweetness, it always brings a smile to the table. Don’t hesitate—gather your ingredients and dive into creating this delightful treat. Your taste buds and your guests will thank you for it!
Print
Mango Key Lime Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Tropical-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Mango Key Lime Cheesecake is a luscious tropical dessert featuring a creamy cream cheese filling infused with fresh mango puree and tangy Key lime juice. Set on a buttery graham cracker crust and topped with a glossy mango glaze, fresh mango cubes, lime slices, and mint, it offers a vibrant and refreshing flavor perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you crave a bright, zesty treat.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup mango puree (fresh or canned)
- ½ cup Key lime juice
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For the topping:
- 1 cup mango puree
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- Fresh mango cubes, for garnish
- Lime slices, for garnish
- Mint leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until all crumbs are evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even crust layer. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove and allow it to cool completely.
- Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and fluffy. Add the mango puree, Key lime juice, eggs, vanilla extract, and cornstarch to the cream cheese mixture. Beat everything together until well combined and silky. Pour this filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake the cheesecake: Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until the center is just set but slightly jiggly. Once done, turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool slowly inside the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Chill the cheesecake: After the gradual cooling, remove the cheesecake from the oven. Refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to set firmly and develop full flavor.
- Prepare the topping: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the mango puree, sugar, and lime zest. Cook the mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens into a glaze. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
- Assemble and serve: Once the topping has cooled, spread it evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Garnish with fresh mango cubes, lime slices, and mint leaves before slicing and serving for a colorful, flavorful presentation.
Notes
- You can substitute bottled Key lime juice if fresh Key limes are not available.
- For an extra tropical touch, consider adding shredded coconut to the graham cracker crust before baking.
- This cheesecake stores well and can be kept refrigerated for up to 4 days without loss of flavor or texture.
- Make sure to let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven after baking to minimize cracking on the surface.
