Key Lime Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups Graham cracker crumbs
• 6 tablespoons Unsalted butter, melted
• 0.25 cup Granulated sugar
• 16 ounces Cream cheese, softened
• 14 ounces Sweetened condensed milk
• 0.5 cup Key lime juice
• 2 units Large eggs
• 1 tablespoon Key lime zest
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 0.25 cup Sour cream(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

2. 2

   Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar in a bowl until combined, then press firmly into the bottom of the pan.

3. 3

   Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while preparing the filling.

4. 4

   In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer.

5. 5

   Slowly add the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, lime zest, vanilla extract, and sour cream, mixing until well incorporated.

6. 6

   Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air.

7. 7

   Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust and bake for 30-35 minutes until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly.

8. 8

   Allow the bars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before slicing into squares.