Name: Strawberry Lime Tart with Cream Cheese Filling
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham crackers or digestive biscuits, crushed; 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 2 tbsp sugar; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp lime zest; 2 tbsp lime juice; 1/2 cup whipping cream; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 tbsp lime juice (for topping); 1 tbsp sugar (for topping); Additional lime zest for garnish

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The Strawberry Lime Tart with Cream Cheese Filling is a vibrant dessert that perfectly balances sweetness with a hint of citrusy tang. With its buttery crust, smooth cream cheese filling, and a topping of fresh strawberries glazed in lime syrup, this tart is as beautiful as it is delicious. Ideal for spring and summer gatherings, it offers a refreshing finish to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This tart is a show-stopping dessert that is remarkably easy to prepare. The rich and creamy filling complements the bright, zesty lime and the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries. It’s a lighter alternative to heavier desserts and makes a great impression at any event. Best of all, it requires no special equipment or advanced baking skills, making it accessible to home bakers of all levels.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:

Graham crackers or digestive biscuits, crushed
Unsalted butter, melted
Sugar

For the filling:

Cream cheese, softened
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Lime zest
Lime juice
Whipping cream

For the topping:

Fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Lime juice
Sugar
Lime zest (for garnish)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, mix crushed graham crackers with melted butter and sugar until combined. Press the mixture into a tart pan to form an even crust.
Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes, then let it cool completely.
In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, lime zest, and lime juice. Mix until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, whip the cream until soft peaks form, then fold it into the cream cheese mixture.
Spoon the filling into the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set.
Meanwhile, toss sliced strawberries with lime juice and sugar. Let them sit for 10–15 minutes.
Arrange the strawberries on top of the chilled tart and drizzle with any remaining syrup.
Garnish with extra lime zest before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes (for crust)
Chill time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Variations

Crust alternatives: Use a shortbread crust or pre-baked pie crust for a different texture.
Berry mix: Combine strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for more color and flavor.
No-bake option: Skip baking the crust and simply chill it longer for a no-bake version.
Coconut cream: Replace whipped cream with coconut whipped cream for a dairy-free alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Store the tart in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. The crust may soften slightly over time, but the flavors remain fresh. This tart is not suitable for freezing due to the fresh fruit and whipped filling, which may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought crust?

Yes, a store-bought graham cracker or pie crust works well and saves time.

Can I make this tart ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the crust and filling up to a day in advance. Add the strawberries just before serving.

Is this tart very sweet?

No, it’s balanced with tangy lime and slightly sweetened cream cheese for a refreshing taste.

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

What kind of cream cheese should I use?

Use full-fat block cream cheese for a stable and creamy texture.

Can I use other fruits?

Yes, kiwi, mango, or mixed berries are all excellent alternatives or additions to strawberries.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream for a fully plant-based option.

Does the tart need to be baked?

Only the crust requires baking; the filling is no-bake and sets in the fridge.

Can I make this into mini tarts?

Yes, use mini tart pans for individual servings. Adjust crust and chill time accordingly.

What can I serve with this tart?

A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with each slice.

Conclusion

The Strawberry Lime Tart with Cream Cheese Filling is a refreshing, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s as visually appealing as it is flavorful. Perfect for warm weather or festive occasions, it delivers the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet in every bite. Simple to prepare yet elegant in presentation, this tart is sure to become a favorite in your dessert collection.