Mary Berry Key Lime Cheesecake Recipe

This Mary Berry Key Lime Cheesecake is creamy, refreshing, and perfectly balanced between sweet and tangy. The smooth lime filling sits on a crisp biscuit base, delivering a clean citrus flavor that feels light yet satisfying. It is a great choice for summer desserts, dinner parties, or make-ahead treats when you want something fresh without heavy richness. Made using simple ingredients and a chilled setting method, this cheesecake comes together easily and slices beautifully once set.

What Is Mary Berry Key Lime Cheesecake?

Mary Berry Key Lime Cheesecake is a chilled cheesecake inspired by classic key lime flavors, prepared using cream cheese, fresh lime juice, and whipped cream. Following Mary Berry’s practical style, the recipe focuses on clarity of flavor, correct texture, and dependable results without unnecessary steps.

Other Popular Mary Berry Recipes

• Mary Berry Baked Vanilla Cheesecake
• Mary Berry No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake
• Mary Berry No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake

Why This Recipe Is Worth Trying

• Bright citrus flavor – Lime adds freshness without overpowering.
• No oven needed – Ideal for warm days or busy schedules.
• Smooth, creamy texture – Sets neatly with proper chilling.
• Make-ahead friendly – Perfect for entertaining.
• Clean slices – Holds its shape well once chilled.

Essential Ingredients to Make Mary Berry Key Lime Cheesecake

• Digestive biscuits – 200 g, finely crushed
• Butter – 100 g, melted
• Full-fat cream cheese – 600 g
• Icing sugar – 100 g, sifted
• Double cream – 300 ml
• Key lime juice – 4 tablespoons
• Lime zest – from 2 limes

Handy Kitchen Tools for Best Results

• Springform tin (20–23 cm) – Allows easy release.
• Mixing bowls – Keeps steps organized.
• Electric whisk – Helps create a stable filling.
• Spatula – Useful for folding gently.
• Fine zester – Releases aromatic lime oils.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mary Berry Key Lime Cheesecake

• Prepare the base – Mix biscuit crumbs with melted butter and press firmly into the tin.
• Chill the base – Refrigerate for 20 minutes until firm.
• Soften the cream cheese – Beat until smooth and lump-free.
• Sweeten the filling – Add icing sugar and mix gently.
• Add lime flavor – Stir in lime juice and zest evenly.
• Whip the cream – Beat to soft peaks in a separate bowl.
• Fold together – Combine whipped cream with the lime mixture carefully.
• Set the cheesecake – Spoon over the base, smooth the top, and chill until firm.

What I Got Wrong (And How I Fixed It)

• Loose filling – Whipping the cream properly improved the structure.
• Sharp lime flavor – Balancing zest and juice helped.
• Soft base – Longer chilling stopped crumbling.
• Overmixing – Gentle folding kept the texture light.

Healthier Version of Mary Berry Key Lime Cheesecake

• Reduced sugar option – Slightly less icing sugar still works.
• Thinner biscuit base – Cuts down on butter.
• Smaller portions served – Keeps it balanced.
• Fruit topping instead – Adds sweetness naturally.

Ingredient Substitutions for Mary Berry Key Lime Cheesecake

• Regular limes instead of key limes – Works well if key limes are unavailable.
• Graham crackers swap – Suitable alternative to digestives.
• Mascarpone addition – Adds richness if preferred.
• Gluten-free biscuits – For dietary needs.

Pairing Ideas: What to Serve With Mary Berry Key Lime Cheesecake

• Fresh berries – Adds color and softness.
• Light whipped cream – Smooths the citrus edge.
• Mint garnish – Brings a fresh finish.
• Lime slices – Enhances presentation.
• Hot tea or coffee – Complements the chilled dessert.

Expert Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Key Lime Cheesecake

• Use full-fat cream cheese – Helps the cheesecake set firmly.
• Zest before juicing – Makes the process easier.
• Fold gently – Preserves air in the filling.
• Chill for long enough – At least 6 hours works best.
• Level the base firmly – Prevents cracking when slicing.
• Cover while chilling – Stops surface drying.
• Warm knife for slicing – Produces clean cuts.

Creative Ways to Customize Mary Berry Key Lime Cheesecake

• Coconut base option – Adds tropical notes.
• White chocolate swirl – Softens the citrus.
• Individual jar servings – Easy to serve.
• Berry topping layer – Adds sweetness and color.
• Ginger biscuit base – Brings gentle warmth.

Storing Mary Berry Key Lime Cheesecake the Right Way

• Chill completely before storing – Maintains structure.
• Refrigerate covered – Keeps fresh for up to 3 days.
• Avoid strong odors – Cheesecake absorbs smells easily.
• Freeze slices individually – Thaw slowly in the fridge.

How to Reheat Mary Berry Key Lime Cheesecake (If Needed)

This cheesecake is best served chilled. Let it rest at room temperature for a few minutes before serving rather than reheating.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: Moderate to high
• Protein: Moderate from dairy
• Fat: High due to cream and butter
• Carbohydrates: From biscuits and sugar
• Vitamin C: From fresh lime juice and zest

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FAQs

Why is my key lime cheesecake not setting properly?

Key lime cheesecake usually stays soft if the cream was not whipped to soft peaks or if low-fat cream cheese was used. Full-fat cream cheese and properly whipped double cream are essential. Chilling the cheesecake for at least 6 hours helps it firm up and slice cleanly.

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes, regular limes work well and are often easier to find. The flavor will be slightly less sharp than key limes, but the cheesecake will still set and taste fresh. Use the same amount of juice and zest.

How long should key lime cheesecake chill before serving?

Key lime cheesecake needs a minimum of 6 hours in the fridge, but overnight chilling gives the best texture. Cutting it too soon can cause the filling to slump or lose its shape.

Should lime juice be added before or after whipping the cream?

Lime juice should be mixed into the cream cheese mixture before folding in the whipped cream. Adding acidic juice directly to whipped cream can affect its structure and make the filling less stable.

Wrapping It Up

Mary Berry Key Lime Cheesecake is fresh, creamy, and easy to prepare, making it a dependable dessert for many occasions. With its balanced citrus flavor and smooth texture, it is a recipe that feels light, polished, and consistently rewarding to serve.