Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Pina Colada Recipe

Creamy Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Pina Colada Recipe for Summer Joy

Cool tropical breezes and creamy dessert dreams collide in this sensational key lime pie cheesecake pina colada recipe.

Layers of tangy lime, smooth cream cheese, and luscious coconut create a dessert that transports you straight to a beachside paradise.

The combination bursts with vibrant flavors that dance across your palate.

Pineapple and rum undertones add a playful punch to every decadent bite.

Rich and velvety textures blend seamlessly in this show-stopping treat.

Each slice promises a mini vacation for your taste buds.

Summer celebrations or weekend indulgences just found their perfect match.

Key Lime Cheesecake Pina Colada, What’s to Love

  • Burst with Tropical Flavors: Combine the tangy zest of key lime, creamy cheesecake richness, and sweet pineapple with coconut for an extraordinary dessert that transports you to a beachy paradise.
  • Craft Elegant Dessert Easily: Requires basic baking skills and simple ingredients, making it perfect for home bakers wanting to impress guests without complicated techniques.
  • Perfect Party Showstopper: Delivers stunning presentation with minimal effort, ideal for summer gatherings, potlucks, and special celebrations where you want a memorable sweet treat.
  • Adaptable Make-Ahead Option: Can be prepared in advance and chilled, reducing day-of stress and allowing busy hosts to spend more time with guests instead of cooking.

Pina Colada Ingredient Essentials

Crust Ingredients:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: The base that provides a classic, crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness to the graham cracker crust.
  • Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients and creates a rich, golden texture.
Filling Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: The smooth, creamy core of the cheesecake that creates a rich and tangy base.
  • Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness and contributes to the smooth, dense texture of the filling.
  • Key Lime Juice: Provides the signature tart and bright citrus flavor of the pie.
  • Lime Zest: Enhances the lime flavor with intense, fresh citrus notes.
  • Pineapple: Brings a tropical sweetness and juicy texture to the cheesecake.
  • Coconut: Adds a tropical flavor and creates a pina colada-inspired profile.
  • Vanilla: Rounds out the flavors and adds depth to the cheesecake.
  • Eggs: Help bind the filling and create a stable, smooth texture.
Topping Ingredients:
  • Whipped Cream, Toasted Coconut, Lime Slices: Provide a decorative and flavorful finish to the cheesecake.

How to Make a Cheesecake Pina Colada

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Warm up your oven to a cozy 325°F.

Grab your 9-inch springform pan and give it a light coating of grease to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create the Crunchy Crust

Combine graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter.

Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan, creating a solid and delicious base.

Pop the pan in the refrigerator to chill and set.

Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until it becomes silky smooth.

Slowly incorporate:
  • Sweetened condensed milk
  • Fresh key lime juice
  • Zesty lime zest
  • Crushed pineapple
  • Shredded coconut
  • Vanilla extract

Blend everything until the mixture is wonderfully combined and velvety.

Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs

Gently add eggs one at a time, mixing just enough to combine.

Be careful not to overwork the batter.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the luscious filling over the chilled crust.

Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes.

The cheesecake is ready when it’s set but still has a slight jiggle in the center.

Step 6: Cool and Chill

Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature.

Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours to let the flavors meld and the texture firm up.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, crown your masterpiece with:
  • Fluffy whipped cream
  • Toasted coconut flakes
  • Fresh lime slices

Slice, serve, and enjoy this tropical paradise of a dessert!

Tips for the Creamiest Pina Colada

  • Adjust key lime juice to suit your taste preference, adding gradually to control tartness without overpowering other flavors.
  • Bake cheesecake in a water bath to ensure smooth, crack-free surface and even cooking throughout the dessert.
  • Toast coconut flakes before adding to enhance nutty flavor and provide delightful textural contrast in each bite.
  • Replace fresh pineapple with canned chunks if needed, ensuring well-drained fruit to maintain proper cheesecake consistency.
  • Prepare cheesecake up to 2 days in advance, storing covered in refrigerator to develop deeper flavor profiles and save time before serving.

Pina Colada Flavor Variations to Try

  • Tropical Vegan Delight: Replace cream cheese with soaked cashews, use coconut condensed milk, swap eggs with aquafaba, and add vegan graham crackers for a plant-based version.
  • Gluten-Free Paradise: Substitute graham crackers with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs, ensuring the same crunchy base while keeping the tropical flavors intact.
  • Low-Sugar Wellness Option: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar, opt for low-fat cream cheese, and reduce condensed milk quantity for a lighter, diabetes-friendly dessert.
  • Frozen Coconut Cheesecake: Transform the recipe into a no-bake frozen treat by chilling the mixture in the freezer instead of baking, creating a cool summer dessert perfect for hot days.

Best Ways to Serve This Pina Colada

  • Tropical Beach Party Platter: Arrange slices on a large wooden board with fresh pineapple wedges, toasted coconut shavings, and mint leaves for a stunning presentation.
  • Cocktail Companion Pairing: Serve alongside a chilled piña colada or key lime martini to enhance the dessert's tropical flavor profile and create a complete tasting experience.
  • Summer Brunch Showcase: Plate individual slices with a drizzle of passion fruit coulis and a sprinkle of edible flowers for an elegant, Instagram-worthy dessert that wows brunch guests.
  • Sunset Dessert Styling: Garnish with thinly sliced lime wheels, a dusting of toasted coconut, and a small tropical flower for a picturesque, vacation-inspired dessert display.

Storage Advice for Pina Colada Drinks

  • Wrap cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, maintaining its creamy texture and fresh flavor.
  • Slice cheesecake, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months without losing quality.
  • Transfer frozen cheesecake to the refrigerator overnight. Let it slowly defrost to preserve its smooth consistency and prevent moisture loss.
  • Serve chilled for best taste. If desired, let slice sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly before enjoying.

FAQs

  • What are key limes and how do they differ from regular limes?

Key limes are smaller, rounder, and more aromatic than standard Persian limes. They have a more intense, tart flavor that gives dishes a distinct citrusy punch and are typically grown in the Florida Keys and Mexico.

  • Can I substitute key lime juice if I can't find fresh key limes?

Yes, you can use bottled key lime juice from the grocery store. If unavailable, regular lime juice works, though the flavor will be slightly less intense. Aim for fresh juice whenever possible for the best taste.

  • How do I know when the cheesecake is properly baked?

The cheesecake is done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. It should not look liquid but should wobble gently when the pan is shaken.

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Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Pina Colada Recipe

Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Pina Colada Recipe


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4.7 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Creamy key lime pie cheesecake pina colada brings tropical paradise to dessert lovers’ dreams. Coconut, rum, and zesty lime create a luscious fusion that transports palates to Caribbean bliss you’ll savor with pure delight.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 eggs
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) key lime juice
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) crushed pineapple, drained

Crust Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups (180 grams) graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) melted butter

Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • 1/4 cup (30 grams) shredded coconut
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Whipped cream, for topping
  • Toasted coconut, for garnish
  • Lime slices, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 325°F and coat a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray.
  2. Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter to create a cohesive mixture. Press firmly into the pan’s base, ensuring an even layer. Refrigerate to set the crust.
  3. Using an electric mixer, whip cream cheese until completely smooth and free of lumps.
  4. Gradually incorporate condensed milk, creating a silky texture. Fold in key lime juice, lime zest, crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, and vanilla extract until thoroughly integrated.
  5. Introduce eggs one at a time, gently folding into the mixture. Mix minimally to prevent overbeating and maintain a creamy consistency.
  6. Carefully pour the filling over the chilled crust, spreading evenly to the edges.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, watching for a slight jiggle in the center that indicates perfect doneness.
  8. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature, which prevents cracking.
  9. Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours to allow the cheesecake to set and flavors to meld.
  10. Before serving, garnish with freshly whipped cream, toasted coconut flakes, and delicate lime slices for a stunning presentation.

Notes

  • Chill the crust before adding the filling to create a crisp, sturdy base that won’t get soggy.
  • Soften cream cheese at room temperature to ensure smooth, lump-free mixing and a creamy texture.
  • Use fresh key lime juice for the brightest, most authentic tropical flavor that elevates the entire dessert.
  • Prevent cheesecake cracks by avoiding overmixing eggs and baking in a water bath for gentle, even heating.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Cocktails
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 467
  • Sugar: 35 g
  • Sodium: 220 mg
  • Fat: 32 g
  • Saturated Fat: 20 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Natalie Brooks

Natalie Brooks

Co-Founder & Content Strategist

Expertise

  • Vegan and plant-based recipe creation
  • Meal planning and nutritional analysis
  • Storytelling through blog content, video, and social media

Education

eCornell

  • Program: Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate
  • Focus: Whole-food, plant-based cooking, with a foundation in nutritional science and sustainable eating habits.

Natalie brings the vibrant, plant-powered side to Culinary Duo. After earning her Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate from eCornell, she combined her love for fresh ingredients with a passion for storytelling, aiming to make healthy cooking simple and satisfying.
Her kitchen motto: good food doesn’t need a fancy label, it just needs fresh ideas and a little creativity. Outside of writing and recipe testing, Natalie’s happiest in her garden, exploring farmers’ markets, or mixing global flavors into new kitchen experiments.

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