key lime cheesecake bars with toasted coconut

How To Make key lime cheesecake bars with toasted coconut

• Step 1
  Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F (163 degrees C) and line an 8x8 baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it
• Step 2
  In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand.
• Step 3
  Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 8 minutes.
• Step 4
  Remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
• Step 5
  In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
• Step 6
  Add the sugar and mix until fully combined.
• Step 7
  Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract until the filling is smooth.
• Step 8
  Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crust.
• Step 9
  Bake the cheesecake bars for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is still slightly jiggly.
• Step 10
  While the bars are baking, spread the coconut flakes onto a baking sheet and toast them in the oven at 325 degrees F for 3–5 minutes, watching carefully so they do not burn.
• Step 11
  Once the cheesecake bars are finished baking, let them cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes before transferring them to the refrigerator.
• Step 12
  Chill for at least 3 hours, or overnight for the best texture.
• Step 13
  Before serving, sprinkle the toasted coconut flakes over the top, slice into bars, and enjoy cold.
• Step 14
  Optionally, decorate with extra lime zest and a small lime wedge for a fresh and colourful finishing touch.
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