Zesty Key Lime Cheesecake Cookie Cups

If you’re craving a sweet and tangy treat, these Zesty Key Lime Cheesecake Cookie Cups are the perfect dessert for you! A soft sugar cookie base meets a creamy, citrusy cheesecake filling, creating a bite-sized dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent. These little cups are perfect for spring and summer gatherings, offering a delightful blend of sweetness and tang with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Zesty Key Lime Cheesecake Cookie Cups combine two beloved desserts into one perfect package. The sweet and buttery sugar cookie cups provide the perfect base for a rich and creamy key lime cheesecake filling. The result is a refreshing treat that’s ideal for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to festive summer parties. Whether you’re a fan of key lime pie or cheesecake, these mini cookie cups deliver the best of both worlds in a bite-sized form!

Ingredients

For the sugar cookie cups:

• 1 roll (16.5 oz) refrigerated sugar cookie dough

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

For the key lime cheesecake filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/3 cup sweetened condensed milk

• 1/4 cup key lime juice

• 1 teaspoon lime zest

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional toppings:

• Whipped cream

• Extra lime zest or slices for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin.

2. In a bowl, mix the sugar cookie dough with the flour until well combined. Roll the dough into 12 equal balls and press each into the muffin cups, shaping them into a cup form.

3. Bake for 10-12 minutes, then gently press the centers down to maintain the cup shape. Allow them to cool completely.

4. While the cookie cups cool, prepare the cheesecake filling. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until the filling is creamy.

5. Once the cookie cups have cooled, spoon or pipe the key lime cheesecake filling into each cup.

6. Chill the cookie cups for at least 1 hour before serving.

7. Before serving, top with whipped cream and extra lime zest or slices for garnish if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 cups

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cooking time: 12 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes (includes chilling)

Variations

• Chocolate Chip Cookie Cups: Swap out the sugar cookie dough for chocolate chip dough to add an extra layer of flavor to your dessert.

• Different Citrus Flavors: Try using lemon or orange juice instead of lime for a fresh twist on the classic.

• Mini Cheesecake Version: Instead of using muffin tins, bake the sugar cookie dough in mini tart pans for an elegant, mini cheesecake look.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cookie cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: These cookies are best enjoyed chilled, so there’s no need to reheat. If you prefer a warm cookie base, you can warm the sugar cookie cups before adding the cheesecake filling, but be sure to chill them again before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade sugar cookie dough for this recipe?

Yes, homemade sugar cookie dough works perfectly for this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the flour measurements accordingly.

2. Can I make these cookie cups ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the cookie cups and filling a day ahead, then assemble and chill them the night before serving.

3. Can I freeze these cookie cups?

Yes, you can freeze the baked cookie cups (without the cheesecake filling). Once frozen, store them in an airtight container for up to a month. When ready to serve, thaw and fill with the cheesecake filling.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cream cheese?

For a different flavor, you could try using mascarpone cheese or ricotta cheese, though the texture may vary.

5. How can I make these cups more tangy?

If you want a stronger lime flavor, add more lime zest or increase the amount of lime juice in the cheesecake filling.

6. Can I add a crust to the bottom of the cookie cups?

Yes, if you prefer a more traditional crust, you can press crushed graham crackers into the bottom of each muffin cup before baking the sugar cookie dough.

7. What can I substitute for sweetened condensed milk?

You can use regular milk and sugar as a substitute, but sweetened condensed milk gives the filling its signature creaminess and sweetness.

8. Can I use key lime juice from a bottle?

Yes, bottled key lime juice works just fine in this recipe, though fresh lime juice and zest will give it the most vibrant flavor.

9. How do I keep the cookie cups from becoming soggy?

Let the cookie cups cool completely before adding the cheesecake filling, and be sure to chill them before serving to keep the filling firm and the cups crisp.

10. How should I serve these cookie cups?

These Zesty Key Lime Cheesecake Cookie Cups are best served chilled and can be topped with whipped cream, extra lime zest, or slices for a burst of freshness.

Conclusion

These Zesty Key Lime Cheesecake Cookie Cups are a sweet, tangy, and irresistible dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or looking for an easy treat to bring to a gathering, these little bite-sized desserts are sure to impress your guests. With their buttery sugar cookie base, creamy key lime cheesecake filling, and refreshing lime flavor, they’re a fun and flavorful twist on classic cheesecake!

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