Ultra-creamy coconut cheesecake with a toasty coconut-graham crust, rich coconut milk filling, and fluffy whipped cream topping. Silky, tropical, and perfect for make-ahead entertaining.
0.5cupsweetened shredded coconutfolded into batter
1cupheavy creamfor whipped topping
2tbsppowdered sugarfor whipped cream
0.5tspvanilla extractfor whipped cream
0.5cuptoasted coconut flakesfor garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
Heat oven to 325°F. Wrap the outside of a 9-inch springform pan with 2 layers of heavy-duty foil to prepare for a water bath. Lightly grease the inside.
Make the crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 0.25 cup sugar, and 0.75 cup toasted coconut. Stir in melted butter until evenly moistened.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and about 1.5 inches up the sides of the pan. Bake 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly. Boil a kettle of water for the bath.
Make the filling: Beat softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar on medium until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape bowl. Mix in cornstarch and salt until just combined.
On low speed, mix in coconut milk, sour cream, vanilla, and lime juice until smooth. Add eggs one at a time on low, mixing just until incorporated. Fold in 0.5 cup shredded coconut.
Pour filling into crust and smooth the top. Place the pan inside a larger roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan to come halfway up the springform sides.
Bake 55 to 65 minutes, until edges are set and the center wobbles slightly when gently shaken.
Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake cool inside for 60 minutes. Remove from water bath, discard foil, and run a thin knife around the edge.
Cool to room temperature, then cover and chill at least 6 hours or overnight until fully set.
Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla to soft peaks. Top cheesecake and sprinkle with toasted coconut. Slice with a hot, dry knife and serve.
Notes
For the smoothest texture, avoid overbeating once eggs are added and keep the bake gentle with a water bath. Cheesecake keeps well refrigerated for 4 days; freeze slices up to 2 months.