There is something truly irresistible about a dessert that combines creamy richness with bright, zesty freshness, and this Cheesecake Lime Tart Recipe captures that magic perfectly. Imagine a buttery oat cookie crust cradling a luxuriously smooth vanilla cheesecake filling, topped with a vibrant, tangy lime curd that bursts with citrus flavor. Naturally sweetened and gluten-free, this tart isn’t just beautiful to look at—it’s a refreshing, light finish to any meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re entertaining or just treating yourself, this Cheesecake Lime Tart Recipe promises a deliciously memorable culinary experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but indispensable for achieving the harmonious balance of textures and flavors in this Cheesecake Lime Tart Recipe. Each component, from the nutty flour blend in the crust to the fresh lime juice in the curd, plays a key role in creating that perfect slice of heaven.
- Oat flour (1 ¼ cup): Provides a naturally sweet, wholesome base with a tender crumb for the crust.
- Almond flour (½ cup): Adds a subtle nuttiness and helps bind the crust together beautifully.
- Unsweetened shredded coconut (2 tbsp): Brings a hint of tropical texture and flavor to the crust.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness and tang.
- Pure maple syrup (3 tbsp): A natural sweetener for the crust that adds depth without overpowering.
- Olive oil (⅓ cup): Keeps the crust moist and tender while adding a subtle richness.
- Heavy cream 35% (½ cup): Whipped to fluffy perfection for the cheesecake filling’s creamy texture.
- Cream cheese, softened (8 oz): The star of the filling, lending luscious creaminess and body.
- Honey (⅓ cup) or white sugar substitute: Sweetens the cheesecake filling gently and naturally.
- Pure vanilla extract (2 tsp): Infuses warm, aromatic notes that elevate the filling’s flavor.
- Lime zest (from 1 lime): Adds bright citrus fragrance and a pop of color to the filling.
- Large eggs (4) plus 2 egg yolks: Essential for setting the luxurious lime curd topping.
- Lime zest (1 tbsp) and fresh lime juice (½ cup): Provide intense citrus zing and freshness for the curd.
- Honey (½ cup) or sugar substitute: Sweetens the lime curd while balancing tartness.
- Butter (5 tbsp): Adds silkiness and richness to the lime curd.
- Unflavored chlorophyll (1 tsp, optional): Gives the lime curd a vibrant green hue for extra wow factor.
How to Make Cheesecake Lime Tart Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oat Cookie Crust
Start by warming your oven to 350 degrees F, which ensures the crust bakes evenly. Whisk together oat flour, almond flour, shredded coconut, and a pinch of salt for a textured, nutty base. Drizzle maple syrup and olive oil into the dry mixture and stir until it’s a cohesive dough that slightly firms up after resting. Press this nutty blend evenly into a 9-inch tart pan, covering the bottom and sides thoroughly to create a sturdy shell. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, then gently press any puffed-up areas back down with a glass base. Let the crust cool completely, so it’s ready to support that luscious cheesecake filling perfectly.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form—this step is crucial for that airy, light texture in the filling. In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese with honey, vanilla extract, and lime zest until smooth and fluffy, making sure no lumps remain. Carefully fold the whipped cream into this mixture, incorporating air without deflating it. Spread this silky filling evenly over your cooled oat crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Pop it into the fridge to firm up while preparing your zingy lime curd.
Step 3: Prepare the Tangy Lime Curd
Whisk eggs and egg yolks smoothly together, then heat lime zest, fresh lime juice, honey, and butter in a saucepan until the butter melts and the mixture starts bubbling at the edges. To avoid scrambling the eggs, temper them by whisking in a small amount of the warm lime mixture before combining it all back. Return to medium-low heat, stirring until the curd thickens and coats the back of a spoon—this luscious texture is key. Strain it through a fine sieve for silken smoothness and mix in chlorophyll if you want that signature green tint. Pour the fragrant lime curd over the cheesecake filling and smooth the surface. Refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours or overnight until set.
How to Serve Cheesecake Lime Tart Recipe
Garnishes
Adding simple garnishes elevates the look and flavor of your tart. Consider adding thin lime slices or twists on top to bring fresh brightness and a bit of charm. A sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes can echo the crust’s flavors, while a dusting of powdered sugar or edible flowers adds a touch of elegance—perfect if you’re serving guests.
Side Dishes
This Cheesecake Lime Tart Recipe shines as a standalone dessert, but pairing it with complementary bites can enhance the experience. Fresh berries or a mixed fruit salad can bring extra freshness, while a light herbal tea or sparkling water with a hint of lime balances the richness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Instead of one large tart, try pouring the cheesecake and lime curd layers into mini tart shells or individual jars for a fun, personalized touch. Layering the lime curd between two cheesecake rounds creates a stunning layered effect. For a sophisticated touch, serve slices on chilled plates with a drizzle of berry coulis or a dollop of whipped cream infused with lime zest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Cheesecake Lime Tart Recipe is fully chilled and set, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, perfect for enjoying leisurely spoonsful or sharing with friends.
Freezing
If you’d like to save some for later, you can freeze this tart. Wrap it well with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw the tart overnight in the fridge to maintain that creamy, smooth texture without condensation.
Reheating
Because this dessert is best enjoyed cold, reheating is not recommended. Serve chilled straight from the refrigerator for the ideal combination of refreshing lime zing and creamy cheesecake melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
FAQs
Can I substitute the oat flour for another gluten-free flour?
Yes! You can try coconut flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend, but keep in mind that different flours absorb liquids differently. You might need to adjust the amount of maple syrup or oil slightly to achieve the right crust texture.
Is it necessary to use cream cheese, or can I use a dairy-free alternative?
Dairy-free cream cheese alternatives work well if you want to keep this recipe vegan or dairy-free. Just check that it’s soft and spreadable to mix smoothly with the other filling ingredients for a creamy texture.
Can I use regular sugar instead of honey or maple syrup?
Absolutely! White sugar or caster sugar can be a perfect substitute in both the crust and fillings if you prefer. Honey and maple syrup offer extra flavor layers, but sugar will still produce a delicious tart.
What’s the purpose of the chlorophyll in the lime curd?
The unflavored chlorophyll is purely optional and is used to give the lime curd a vibrant green color, making the tart visually striking. It does not alter the taste, so feel free to skip it if you don’t have any on hand.
How long does the tart need to chill before serving?
The tart should be refrigerated for at least 3 to 4 hours to allow the cheesecake filling and lime curd to set completely. For best texture and flavor, chilling it overnight is even better.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for that perfect dessert that feels special yet isn’t complicated, this Cheesecake Lime Tart Recipe is your new go-to. Its blend of creamy, citrus, and naturally sweet elements makes every bite a burst of joy. Trust me, once you make this tart, it will be a beloved favorite for celebrations or any sweet craving that calls for a little sunshine on your plate. Go ahead—grab those ingredients and create something unforgettable!
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Cheesecake Lime Tart Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Cheesecake Lime Tart is a light, refreshing, and naturally sweetened dessert featuring a gluten-free oat cookie crust, creamy vanilla cheesecake filling, and smooth, tangy lime curd topping. Perfect for make-ahead occasions, it combines delightful textures and zesty flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Oat Cookie Crust
- 1 ¼ cup oat flour
- ½ cup almond flour
- 2 tbsp unsweetened shredded coconut (medium)
- Pinch of salt
- 3 tbsp pure maple syrup
- ⅓ cup olive oil
Cream Cheese Filling
- ½ cup heavy cream (35%)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup honey (or substitute white sugar)
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Zest of one lime
Lime Curd
- 4 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 tbsp lime zest
- ½ cup fresh lime juice (about 4 limes)
- ½ cup honey (or substitute white sugar)
- 5 tbsp butter (75 grams)
- 1 tsp unflavored chlorophyll (optional, for color)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oat Cookie Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, whisk together the oat flour, almond flour, shredded unsweetened coconut, and a pinch of salt. Add the maple syrup and olive oil then stir until the mixture is well combined. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flours to absorb the liquid. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch tart pan.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the tart crust for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. If the crust puffs up, gently press it back down with the base of a glass or measuring cup. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely before filling.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks then transfer to a small bowl. In the same bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, honey, vanilla extract, and lime zest on high speed until light and fluffy with no lumps. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until combined. Spread this filling evenly into the cooled tart shell and smooth the top. Refrigerate to firm up while preparing the lime curd.
- Prepare the Lime Curd: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and egg yolks until smooth. In a medium saucepan, combine lime zest, lime juice, honey, and butter over medium heat, stirring until the butter melts and the mixture bubbles at the edges. Remove from heat.
- Temper the Eggs: Gradually whisk about ¼ cup of the warm lime mixture into the eggs to temper them, then slowly whisk the tempered eggs back into the saucepan with the remaining lime mixture.
- Cook the Curd: Return the saucepan to medium-low heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and strain the curd through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl. If desired, stir in unflavored chlorophyll for a vibrant green color.
- Assemble and Chill: Pour the lime curd over the cheesecake filling in the tart and smooth the top. Refrigerate the tart for at least 3–4 hours or overnight until fully set before serving.
Notes
- This tart is naturally gluten-free due to the oat and almond flour crust.
- You can substitute honey with white sugar if preferred.
- Allow the crust to cool completely before adding the filling to prevent melting.
- Tempering the eggs is important to avoid curdling when making the lime curd.
- Refrigerate overnight for the best texture and flavor development.
- Unflavored chlorophyll is optional and only used for a bright green color in the lime curd.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American

