If you’re searching for a dessert that delivers utter bliss in every bite, Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars are going to become your new obsession. Imagine a crunchy coconut-graham cracker base, a silky cheesecake layer bursting with the tang of fresh key limes, and a luscious cloud of purple whipped cream swirled on top for a splash of color and celebration. Every bite captures tropical sunshine and cool, creamy indulgence, making these bars perfect for backyard gatherings, celebrations, or simply spoiling yourself with something special.

Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars lies in a simple collection of vibrant, high-quality ingredients—each one has a big role to play. From the toasty coconut and graham crackers forming the crust, to fragrant key lime juice and rich crème fraîche in the filling, every element is chosen to amplify flavor and create that irresistible, luscious texture.

Crushed graham crackers: These form the sturdy and neutral backbone of your crust, giving that classic cheesecake crunch.
Toasted coconut: A treasure trove of tropical flair, adding chewiness and depth to the crust and coating.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances every sweet and tangy bite, balancing the richness throughout the bars.
Butter: Chilled cubes for binding the crust, a touch for greasing—this is what makes that base melt-in-your-mouth good.
Coconut oil: Adds a whisper of coconut flavor and a touch of luxury to the crust’s texture.
Dark brown sugar: Deepens the flavor of the crust with caramel notes that play perfectly against the lime.
Cream cheese (room temperature): The heart and soul of the creamy filling—smooth and tangy, it sets the stage for all the other flavors.
Sweetened condensed milk: Provides rich sweetness and sublime silkiness to the cheesecake layer.
Crème fraîche: A touch of tang and complex creaminess that brightens the filling—don’t skip it!
Eggs (room temperature): They bring structure, smoothness, and that classic cheesecake richness.
Key lime juice: The zippy, bright backbone of flavor—authentic key limes give the best taste, but regular limes work in a pinch.
Pandan extract: Offers a stunning green hue and a gentle, sweet scent that makes the bars unforgettable.
Vanilla extract: Provides floral notes and rounds out the flavor—add extra if skipping pandan.
Key lime zest: Intensifies citrus aroma and gives visual pizzazz to the filling.
Kosher salt: An essential pinch means every bite pops with flavor.
Whipped cream: For the dreamy layer on top—light as air and delish.
Confectioners sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream and helps it hold those gorgeous swirls.
Pinch of salt: In the whipped cream, it keeps things lively and never cloying.
Ube extract or food coloring: Totally optional, but a dose of this turns your whipped cream a striking purple—perfect for celebrations.
Limes for garnish: Cut into fun shapes and scattered over the bars for a fresh, zesty presentation.
Extra toasted coconut: A final sprinkle for added texture and irresistible aroma.

How to Make Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Purple Whipped Cream

This whimsical topping sets Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars apart. Using a stand or hand mixer, whip the cream, confectioners sugar, and a pinch of salt until soft peaks hold their shape. If you’re feeling extra fun, remove about a third of the whipped cream before stirring in ube extract (or a splash of food coloring) to create those vibrant purple swirls. Refrigerate your whipped cream until you’re ready to assemble—the color contrast will make your bars totally swoon-worthy.

Step 2: Make the Coconut Graham Cracker Crust

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees and butter a 9×13 pan, ensuring an easy release. In a food processor, pulse together graham crackers, dark brown sugar, and toasted coconut until fine. Add chilled butter cubes and coconut oil, pulsing until the mix resembles moist sand—squeeze it, and it should just hold together. Scatter the crust evenly in the pan, pressing it up the sides for structure. Give it a quick 5–8 minute bake, just until golden and aromatic, then let it cool completely. This flavorful base perfectly supports the tangy filling.

Step 3: Mix the Cheesecake Filling

Lower the oven to 325 degrees. In a stand mixer, beat together the cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, crème fraîche, eggs, pandan and vanilla extracts, salt, key lime juice, and zest. Don’t rush this—scrape the sides often for a velvety, lump-free batter that promises every bite will be creamy and light. Pour the mixture over the cooled crust, ready to become the star of the show.

Step 4: Bake and Chill

Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 35–45 minutes. Watch for the edges to set and the center to jiggle ever so slightly—this is the secret to creamy, dreamy bars. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool. For the best texture, let these bars chill at least 12 hours (overnight is ideal) before serving. The waiting is the hardest part, but it delivers that signature silky-smooth finish.

Step 5: Assemble and Garnish Your Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars

Now the fun part! Dollop the purple whipped cream onto the center of the chilled cheesecake. Gently swirl it outward to within 3 inches of the edge, then add plain whipped cream and swirl for an eye-catching marbled look. Slice into 12 even bars, then finish with fresh lime wedges and a scatter of toasted coconut. Serve chilled, and watch everyone’s faces light up at first bite.

How to Serve Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars

Garnishes

For a show-stopping finish, top your Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars with bright rounds, half-moons, or wedges of fresh lime, and a sprinkle of toasted coconut. Not only does this add a gorgeous pop of color, but it infuses every bite with fresh, citrusy zing and pleasing crunch that will have guests swooning before they even taste them.

Side Dishes

Pairing these bars is simple—think light and bright. Fresh fruit salads, tangy raspberries, or thin slices of mango boost the tropical notes. For richer occasions, balance with unsweetened iced tea or espresso, keeping the flavors crisp and refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars small for party-ready bites, serve them in cupcake liners for a playful touch, or assemble them in layers in dessert jars for a trendy parfait. A little edible flower, a mint sprig, or even a geometric chocolate square on top can quickly make these bars feel bakery-worthy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars are made for make-ahead magic! Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep beautifully for up to 4 days, and the flavors actually deepen, meaning leftovers are never a bad thing.

Freezing

Want to plan further ahead? These bars freeze like a dream. Place uncut bars (without whipped cream or garnishes) in the freezer, well wrapped. When ready to serve, let them thaw in the fridge overnight, then add whipped cream and finish with the garnishes just before serving for the freshest taste and best texture.

Reheating

No reheating required here! Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars are at their creamy best when served fully chilled. If they’re ever slightly frozen, allow them to sit in the fridge until soft and ready to eat. Warm bars aren’t recommended, as the texture is designed to be served cold and luscious.

FAQs

Can I use regular limes if I can’t find key limes?

Absolutely! While key limes add that classic tart edge and delicate aroma, regular limes work well if that’s what you have on hand. The end result will still be deliciously fresh and tangy.

Is pandan extract necessary for Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars?

Pandan extract gives a unique green hue and subtle vanilla-like fragrance, but if you can’t find it, don’t worry! Double the vanilla extract for a lovely flavor—it won’t affect texture or taste too much.

What is ube extract, and can I omit it?

Ube extract adds color and a hint of nutty, vanilla flavor, inspired by Filipino sweets. If you can’t find ube or prefer not to use coloring, simply skip it. You’ll still have fabulous whipped cream topping—just a little less colorful!

Why does everything need to be room temperature?

Bringing ingredients like cream cheese, eggs, and crème fraîche to room temperature ensures a smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter. Cold ingredients can create clumps, so take the time to let everything warm up on the counter.

Can I make Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars a day ahead?

Yes, and you absolutely should! These bars taste even better after chilling overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the texture to set just right. Perfect for stress-free entertaining or whenever you want a treat waiting in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

There is truly something magical about sharing Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake Bars with people you love. Their citrus pop, creamy richness, and tropical twist never fail to brighten the table and spark grins all around. Give them a try—the first bite will make you a fan for life!