Name: Zesty Key Lime Cheesecake Cookie Cups Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 31 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 package (16.5 oz) refrigerated sugar cookie dough; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons key lime juice; 1 teaspoon key lime zest; Whipped cream (for topping); Extra lime zest or lime slices (for garnish)

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If you’re on the hunt for a treat that’s bursting with sunny, citrus flavor and creamy richness, look no further than Zesty Key Lime Cheesecake Cookie Cups. These adorable individual desserts perfectly balance tangy key lime with velvety cheesecake, all nestled in a soft sugar cookie shell. They taste like a little bit of sunshine in every bite—and best of all, they’re quick enough for weeknights but dazzling enough for gatherings! Trust me, after one bite, you’ll want to add this recipe to your dessert rotation all year long.

Zesty Key Lime Cheesecake Cookie Cups Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up these delicious Zesty Key Lime Cheesecake Cookie Cups, you won’t need a long shopping list. Each ingredient plays a special part—delivering the creamy, zesty, and sweet flavors that make this dessert irresistible. Here’s why each item makes a difference:

Refrigerated sugar cookie dough: The foundation for your cookie cup—delightfully sweet, soft, and saves you time!
Cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake filling, delivering that signature creamy texture and subtle tang.
Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the lime’s tartness.
All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the cheesecake filling for a satisfyingly rich bite.
Egg: Binds the cheesecake filling and creates that beautiful, silky consistency.
Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic note that makes each cup taste bakery-fresh.
Key lime juice: Provides the vibrant, zesty citrus punch that makes these cups sing.
Key lime zest: Gives a double dose of lime flavor—and beautiful green flecks for a pop of color.
Whipped cream (for topping): Adds a fluffy, creamy finish that complements the tangy cheesecake.
Extra lime zest or lime slices (for garnish): Brightens up the presentation and adds an extra zing of flavor.

How to Make Zesty Key Lime Cheesecake Cookie Cups

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick spray or softened butter. This little step ensures those Zesty Key Lime Cheesecake Cookie Cups pop out—golden and picture-perfect—every single time!

Step 2: Form the Cookie Cup Shells

Slice your sugar cookie dough into 12 equal pieces. Press each piece into a muffin cup, pressing gently up the sides to make a deep, sturdy base for the creamy filling that’s coming next. This gives you the cutest edible vessels for your luscious cheesecake layer!

Step 3: Mix the Cheesecake Filling

In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and flour together until the mixture is smooth and dreamy. Next, add in the egg, vanilla extract, key lime juice, and key lime zest—mixing until everything’s combined and you’re greeted by zesty, citrusy aroma and a creamy, pourable filling.

Step 4: Fill the Cookie Cups

Evenly spoon the cheesecake mixture into each prepared cookie cup, filling almost to the top. Don’t worry if it looks a tad full—these bake up just right and settle into the perfect creamy centers.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 14 to 16 minutes. Watch for the edges to turn a lovely golden color while the centers set just enough—think of a gentle wobble, not a jiggle! The aroma filling your kitchen is a sweet reward in itself.

Step 6: Cool and Chill

Once baked, let the cookie cups cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. For ultimate flavor and texture, pop them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This chilling time lets the flavors meld and the cheesecake get extra creamy.

Step 7: Top and Garnish

Just before serving, crown each cookie cup with a generous swirl of whipped cream and sprinkle with extra lime zest or a tiny lime slice. Each cup is transformed into a showstopper—ready to impress with its bright, inviting look and bold flavor.

How to Serve Zesty Key Lime Cheesecake Cookie Cups

Garnishes

Take your Zesty Key Lime Cheesecake Cookie Cups over the top with billowy whipped cream, a twinkle of fresh lime zest, or petite wedges of lime. These final flourishes make each bite even more special, adding color and citrusy perfume that complements the creamy filling perfectly.

Side Dishes

Pair these cheerful cups with fresh fruit salad, a pot of coffee, or a dish of crisp berries. The mild, creamy flavor loves a contrast—think juicy strawberries, tart blueberries, or even a spoonful of tropical mango on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Zesty Key Lime Cheesecake Cookie Cups on a tiered dessert stand or wrap each one in parchment for grab-and-go treats at a picnic or party. They’re also adorable toasted with a brûlée torch for a caramelized finish, or served in colorful cupcake liners to match your party theme.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extras (lucky you!), keep the cookie cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Chilling keeps the cheesecake creamy and the cookie base tender, with flavors staying bright and fresh.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze these treats! Place fully cooled, ungarnished Zesty Key Lime Cheesecake Cookie Cups in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before adding toppings.

Reheating

While these are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, a quick 10 seconds in the microwave softens the cookie base if you prefer a warmer bite. Always add whipped cream and zest after reheating for the prettiest results!

FAQs

Can I use regular lime juice if I don’t have key limes?

Absolutely! Regular lime juice works nicely in this recipe, though key limes have a slightly sweeter, bolder flavor. The end result will still be beautifully tangy and refreshing.

Can I make Zesty Key Lime Cheesecake Cookie Cups ahead of time?

Yes, these cookie cups are a fantastic make-ahead dessert! Prepare them a day or two ahead and store in the refrigerator. Just add the whipped cream and garnishes right before serving for the best texture and look.

Why do my cookie cups stick to the pan?

Make sure to generously grease the muffin tin before adding the dough. If you’re extra cautious, use paper liners or a silicone muffin pan for effortless removal every time.

Can I use homemade sugar cookie dough?

Definitely! If you have a favorite homemade sugar cookie recipe, use it in place of the store-bought dough. The homemade touch adds even more love and flavor to your Zesty Key Lime Cheesecake Cookie Cups.

How do I prevent the cheesecake filling from cracking?

Avoid over-baking and mix the filling until just combined without whipping in too much air. Allow the cups to cool gradually, and don’t skip the chilling step—they’ll set perfectly smooth!

Final Thoughts

There’s just something irresistible about Zesty Key Lime Cheesecake Cookie Cups—whether it’s the cookie crunch, the creamy lime filling, or that bright pop of citrus on top. I hope these become a cherished treat in your own kitchen, perfect for get-togethers or whenever you’re craving something delightfully different. Happy baking and enjoy every sunshine-filled bite!

Zesty Key Lime Cheesecake Cookie Cups Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 7 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 31 minutes
Yield: 12 cookie cups 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Zesty Key Lime Cheesecake Cookie Cups are a delightful combination of tangy key lime cheesecake filling nestled in a sweet sugar cookie cup, topped with whipped cream and a hint of lime zest. Perfect for a refreshing dessert or sweet treat!

Ingredients

Scale

Sugar Cookie Cups:

1 package (16.5 oz) refrigerated sugar cookie dough

Cheesecake Filling:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons key lime juice
1 teaspoon key lime zest

Topping:

Whipped cream (for topping)
Extra lime zest or lime slices (for garnish)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
Prepare the cookie cups: Slice the sugar cookie dough into 12 even pieces and press each slice into the bottom and slightly up the sides of each muffin cup to form a cookie shell.
Make the cheesecake filling: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and flour until smooth. Add the egg, vanilla extract, key lime juice, and zest, mixing until fully combined.
Fill the cups: Spoon the cheesecake mixture evenly into each cookie cup, filling almost to the top.
Bake: Bake for 14–16 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are just set.
Cool and serve: Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Top with whipped cream and garnish with lime zest or small lime wedges.