Key Lime Cheesecake

Ingredients:

**For the Crust:**
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

**For the Cheesecake Filling:**
– 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
– 1 tbsp lime zest

**For the Topping:**
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Lime zest, for garnish
– Lime slices, for garnish

Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Crust:**
– Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
– In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
– Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the back of a spoon or a measuring cup to press it down firmly.
– Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

2. **Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:**
– In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
– Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
– Add the sour cream, and mix until smooth.
– Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition just until combined.
– Add the fresh lime juice and lime zest, and mix until well combined.

3. **Bake the Cheesecake:**
– Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
– Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 55-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set. It should still jiggle slightly when shaken.
– Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for about 1 hour.
– Remove from the oven and let it cool completely to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

4. **Prepare the Topping:**
– In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form.
– Spread the whipped cream over the top of the chilled cheesecake.
– Garnish with lime zest and lime slices.

5. **Serve:**
– Carefully run a knife around the edge of the springform pan before removing the sides.
– Slice and serve chilled.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Key Lime Cheesecake!