This gluten-free lime passionfruit cheesecake is a tropical delight, combining the tartness of lime with the exotic sweetness of passionfruit. The gluten-free crust ensures that everyone can enjoy this refreshing and creamy dessert.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Passionfruit Topping:
- 1/2 cup passionfruit pulp (about 4-5 passionfruits or use canned)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
Preparing the Crust:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan or line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the gluten-free graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
- Form the Crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Use the back of a spoon or a measuring cup to press it down evenly.
- Bake the Crust: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
Making the Cheesecake Filling:
- Beat Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Mix in Sour Cream, Lime Juice, and Zest: Add the sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Pour Filling into Crust: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly.
Baking the Cheesecake:
- Prepare Water Bath: Wrap the bottom of the springform pan in aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in. Place the pan in a larger baking dish and add hot water to the dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for about 1 hour.
- Cool Completely: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and water bath. Allow it to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Making the Passionfruit Topping:
- Prepare Passionfruit Mixture: In a small saucepan, combine the passionfruit pulp and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture begins to simmer.
- Thicken with Cornstarch: Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the topping thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
Assembling the Cheesecake:
- Add Passionfruit Topping: Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, spread the cooled passionfruit topping over the top of the cheesecake.
- Chill Again: Refrigerate the cheesecake for an additional hour to set the topping.
Serving:
- Serve: Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy the bright, tangy flavors of lime and passionfruit in every bite!
Tips for Best Results:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother filling.
- Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing can incorporate too much air into the batter, causing cracks in the cheesecake.
- Water Bath: The water bath helps prevent cracks and ensures even baking.
Variations and Add-Ins:
- Lime Zest Garnish: Sprinkle extra lime zest on top for a pop of color and flavor.
- Passionfruit Seeds: For added texture, you can leave some of the passionfruit seeds in the topping.
Storing and Serving:
- Storage: Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream or a few fresh passionfruit seeds for garnish.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sugar: 26g
- Protein: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
This gluten-free lime passionfruit cheesecake is a refreshing and indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tart lime and sweet passionfruit creates a flavor profile that’s both exotic and familiar, making it a standout dish that everyone will love. Enjoy!