Key Lime Cheesecake

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup key lime juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Whipped cream and lime slices for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to create the crust.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in 1 cup of sugar and mix until well combined.
4. Add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Stir in the key lime juice and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
6. Finally, fold in the sour cream until well combined. Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust in the prepared pan.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are slightly golden brown.
8. Let the cheesecake cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
9. Once the cheesecake is chilled, remove it from the pan and top with whipped cream and lime slices, if desired.
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