A refreshing no-bake cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust, silky cream cheese filling, and vibrant lime jelly topping—crowned with a slice of lime and a glossy citrus glaze for a zesty finish. This dessert is a perfect choice for warm days when you want something light, bright, and effortlessly elegant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No-Bake Lime Cheesecake is a crowd-pleasing dessert that balances tangy citrus flavor with creamy richness and a delightful crunch from the graham cracker crust. With no need for baking, it’s an ideal make-ahead treat that sets beautifully in the fridge. The layered presentation also makes it visually appealing for dinner parties, celebrations, or a refreshing summer treat.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tbsp sugar

For the cheesecake filling:

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lime
1 tbsp lime juice
1 cup heavy cream, whipped

For the lime jelly topping:

1/2 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
1/2 cup water
1/3 cup sugar
1 tbsp gelatin powder
Few drops green food coloring (optional)

For garnish:

Fresh lime slices
Whipped cream
Mint leaves

directions

Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan or cake ring. Chill for 15 minutes to set.
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar, vanilla extract, lime zest, and lime juice until smooth.
Gently fold in the whipped cream until fully incorporated.
Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until firm.
For the jelly topping, combine lime juice, water, and sugar in a small saucepan. Sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the surface and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
Gently heat the mixture, stirring until the sugar and gelatin are fully dissolved. Add food coloring if desired.
Let the jelly cool slightly before pouring it carefully over the set cheesecake.
Refrigerate for another 2 hours until the jelly layer is firm.
Before serving, garnish with fresh lime slices, whipped cream, and mint leaves.

Servings and timing

Servings: 10–12 slices
Prep time: 30 minutes
Chill time: 6 hours
Total time: 6 hours 30 minutes

Variations

Lemon Version: Replace lime with lemon juice and zest for a bright lemon cheesecake.
Coconut Crust: Swap graham crackers for crushed coconut cookies for a tropical twist.
Mini Cheesecakes: Make in muffin tins with liners for individual servings.
Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping, and agar-agar in place of gelatin.
Mixed Citrus: Blend lime with orange or grapefruit juice for a more complex flavor profile.

storage/reheating

Store the no-bake lime cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best results, do not freeze, as the texture of the filling and jelly may be compromised upon thawing. This dessert is served cold and does not require reheating.

FAQs

How long does no-bake lime cheesecake last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze this cheesecake?

Freezing is not recommended due to the delicate texture of the filling and jelly topping.

What can I use instead of graham crackers?

Digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or shortbread cookies work well as substitutes.

Is it necessary to use gelatin for the topping?

Yes, gelatin is required to set the jelly layer. For a vegetarian version, you can use agar-agar.

Can I make this cheesecake a day ahead?

Yes, it’s ideal for making ahead and allows the layers to fully set overnight.

Why is my cheesecake filling not setting properly?

Insufficient chilling time or using unwhipped cream can cause a loose filling. Ensure heavy cream is whipped before folding in.

Can I omit the lime zest?

You can, but the zest adds an extra punch of lime flavor that enhances the overall taste.

Is the food coloring necessary?

No, it’s optional and only used for visual appeal.

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is recommended for best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

What size pan should I use?

An 8 or 9-inch springform pan is ideal for this recipe.

Conclusion

No-Bake Lime Cheesecake is a light and tangy dessert that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you want a cool, creamy treat, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite. With its vibrant layers and citrusy aroma, this cheesecake is as beautiful as it is delicious.