Description
Lime Cheesecake
Ingredients:
200g digestive biscuits, crushed
100g unsalted butter, melted
400g cream cheese
200ml heavy cream
100g powdered sugar
Zest and juice of 2 limes
1 packet gelatin
50ml hot water
150g lime jelly or glaze
Instructions:
Prepare crust: Mix crushed biscuits and melted butter, then press into a pan. Chill for 15 minutes.
Whip the filling: Beat cream cheese, sugar, lime zest, and juice until fluffy.
Dissolve gelatin: Stir into the filling and blend well.
Layer it up: Pour onto the crust and refrigerate for 4 hours.
Jelly layer: Spread lime jelly on top and chill for another hour.
Serve: Garnish with lime slices and enjoy!
#TropicalCheesecake
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect no-bake lime cheesecake.
- Prepare the Pan: Line a 20cm springform pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Make the Base: Combine 200g of finely crushed digestive biscuits with 100g of melted unsalted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press it firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan. Chill for at least 15 minutes to set.
- Bloom the Gelatin: Sprinkle one packet of gelatin over 50ml of cool water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes spongy, then add 50ml of hot water and stir until completely dissolved and clear.
- Create the Filling: In a large bowl, beat 400g of softened cream cheese, 100g of powdered sugar, the zest of two limes, and their juice until smooth and fluffy. In a separate bowl, whip 200ml of heavy cream to soft peaks.
- Combine & Set: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. While stirring continuously, slowly pour in the liquid gelatin until fully incorporated. Pour this filling over the chilled base, smooth the top, and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, or until completely firm.
- Add the Jelly Layer: Prepare 150g of lime jelly according to package instructions, but use slightly less water for a firmer set. Let it cool to room temperature before carefully pouring over the set cheesecake. Return to the fridge for another hour.
- Serve: Carefully run a warm knife around the edge of the pan before releasing the springform. Garnish and slice.
Serving Suggestions
This zesty cheesecake is versatile. For an elegant finish, garnish with thin lime slices, a sprinkle of extra zest, or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream. For a tropical twist, serve with a side of fresh mango or passion fruit coulis. A drizzle of white chocolate or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes also complements the lime flavor beautifully.
How-to Summary
Create a biscuit base, chill it, then prepare a creamy lime and cream cheese filling stabilized with dissolved gelatin. Pour over the base and refrigerate until firm. Top with a layer of lime jelly, chill again, then garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cheesecake without gelatin? Yes, you can substitute agar-agar or use a cornstarch-thickened lime curd layer, but the setting time and texture will differ.
How long will it keep in the fridge? Properly covered, it will stay fresh for 3-4 days. The jelly top may start to weep slightly after day two.
My filling didn’t set firmly. What went wrong? The gelatin may not have been fully dissolved, or the cheesecake may not have chilled long enough. Ensure the gelatin solution is clear and liquid before mixing, and allow a full 4 hours to set.
Can I use bottled lime juice? Fresh lime juice is highly recommended for the brightest flavor. Bottled juice often contains preservatives that can alter the taste.
Is there a substitute for digestive biscuits? Graham crackers, shortbread biscuits, or even ginger snaps make excellent alternative bases.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not letting the gelatin bloom: Skipping this step can lead to clumpy gelatin that won’t dissolve properly.
- Adding hot jelly: Pouring warm jelly onto the set filling can cause it to melt and create a messy layer. Always cool it to room temperature first.
- Under-whipping the cream: The cream should be at soft peaks to provide structure without making the filling too stiff.
- Rushing the chill time: Each chilling stage is crucial for setting. Do not shorten the 4-hour setting time for the main filling.
Conclusion
This no-bake lime cheesecake is a stunning and refreshing dessert that perfectly balances creamy richness with vibrant citrus tang. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common pitfalls, you can create an impressive treat that’s surprisingly straightforward. Its make-ahead nature and elegant presentation make it ideal for any gathering, promising a taste of the tropics in every slice.
