Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon grated key lime zest
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined.
- Press mixture into the bottom of an 8-inch square baking dish.
- Bake for 10 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Add granulated sugar and beat until combined.
- Beat in eggs one at a time.
- Stir in key lime zest and juice.
- Pour cheesecake mixture over crust.
- Sprinkle shredded coconut on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set.
- Let cool completely before refrigerating.
Variations:
- Add chopped pecans to the cheesecake mixture for extra texture.
- Use a pastry bag to pipe borders around the edges of the cheesecake bars.
- Substitute lime juice with lemon juice for a different flavor profile.
Note: These Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars are best served chilled, garnished with toasted coconut flakes and a sprinkle of sea salt.