Key Lime Cheesecake

INGREDIENTS

2/3 cup

butter -- melted

1/4 cup

brown sugar -- not packed

2 1/4 cups

graham cracker crumbs -- 34-2"x2" squares or 17 rectangles

envelope unflavored gelatin

3/4 cup

key lime juice

whole eggs -- at room temperature

egg yolks -- at room temperature

1 1/2 cups

sugar -- 1 1/4 cup for lime pudding; 1/4 cup for egg whites

2 tbsp

key lime zest -- grated fine; 10 limes produce 2 tbsp

1 lb

cream cheese -- at room temperature

1 pinch

sea salt

egg whites -- at room temperature

8 1/2

inch springform pan

Optional: whipped cream