Margarita Cheesecake Bars are a zesty, creamy dessert infused with the bold flavors of lime and a touch of tequila. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a silky cheesecake filling, these bars strike the perfect balance between sweet, tangy, and refreshing. Ideal for summer gatherings, parties, or when you’re craving a twist on classic cheesecake.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
graham cracker crumbsunsalted buttergranulated sugarsaltcream cheeseeggsfresh lime juicelime zestsweetened condensed milktequila (optional)orange liqueur (optional)vanilla extractwhipped cream and lime wedges (optional for garnish)
directions
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt until combined.
Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let cool slightly.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, lime zest, vanilla extract, and, if using, tequila and orange liqueur.
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
Cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or until firm.
Cut into bars and garnish with whipped cream and lime wedges if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 9 bars.Preparation time: 20 minutesBaking time: 35 minutesChilling time: 3 hoursTotal time: about 4 hours
Variations
Omit the alcohol for a family-friendly version.
Add a salty pretzel crust for a sweet-and-salty twist.
Use lemon or orange juice instead of lime for a different citrus flavor.
Top with a thin lime glaze for extra zing.
Sprinkle with coarse sea salt for a margarita-style finish.
storage/reheating
Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.Freeze for up to 1 month, wrapped tightly and separated with parchment.Refrigerate leftovers and serve chilled for best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Do I have to use tequila?
No, it’s optional. The bars taste great with or without alcohol.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is best for flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.
What type of cream cheese should I use?
Use full-fat block-style cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The center should be slightly jiggly but not wet. It will firm up as it cools.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust baking time accordingly.
Can I make these ahead?
Yes, they’re perfect for making a day in advance and chilling overnight.
Why did my bars crack?
Overbaking or rapid cooling can cause cracks. Chill slowly and avoid overmixing the batter.
Conclusion
Margarita Cheesecake Bars are a fun and flavorful dessert that brings the tangy kick of a margarita into every creamy bite. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, these bars are a refreshing twist on traditional cheesecake—perfect for any fiesta or laid-back celebration.
PrintMargarita Cheesecake Bars
Creamy and zesty cheesecake bars infused with the refreshing flavors of lime and tequila, inspired by the classic margarita cocktail.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours (including chilling)
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 2 tablespoons tequila (optional)
- 1 tablespoon triple sec or orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: coarse sea salt and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake crust for 8–10 minutes, then remove and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, tequila, triple sec, vanilla, and salt. Mix until fully combined.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until chilled.
- Lift bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into squares. Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt and lime wedges if desired.
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit tequila and triple sec and use extra lime juice and orange juice instead.
- Use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream for the creamiest texture.
- Bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg