Copycat Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Pie
Words cannot express how pleased I am with how this recipe turned out! I mean seriously, how gorgeous is this cheesecake?! Would you believe it didn’t come straight from The Cheesecake Factory?
An Engaging Introduction
If you’re anything like me, then you might think that achieving cheesecake perfection of this magnitude is impossible or incredibly tedious. However, you might be surprised at how straightforward this recipe is. There are quite a few steps, but they are all totally doable. There’s nothing mysterious about this recipe, it just takes time! I think you’ll agree it’s totally worth the effort.
Just look at this creamy, zesty, graham cracker-y masterpiece! There are three parts to getting the perfect cheesecake. First, the crust. In this recipe, the crust consists of graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Pretty standard stuff, yet it pairs perfectly with the rich lime of the cheesecake.
Next, there’s the filling itself. You might be surprised to learn that there’s no secret ingredient here, just cream cheese, lime zest & juice, sugar, eggs, and some cornstarch for texture. That’s another great thing about this recipe – not only is it relatively easy to throw together, but the ingredients are all simple.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The perfect balance of creamy and zesty flavors.
- Simple ingredients that are easy to find.
- Impressive presentation for any occasion.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 9-inch springform pan
- Electric mixer
- Medium mixing bowl
- Oven
A Detailed List of Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Cheesecake
- 3 bars (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1/2 cup lime juice
- 3 eggs
Sweetened Whipped Cream
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- Lime zest or slices for garnish, optional
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing the Recipe
Crust
- Preheat oven to 300° and lightly spray a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray.
- Stir together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl.
- Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides (about 1/2″ up) of the prepared springform pan.
- Bake the crust for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
Cheesecake
- Beat the cream cheese, sugar, cornstarch, and lime zest together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add lime juice and mix until combined. Add the eggs and mix until just combined. Don’t overmix because it can cause the cheesecake to crack while baking.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust and spread evenly.
- Place a metal or glass pan on the bottom rack of the oven and pour in 3 cups of boiling water.
- Set the cheesecake on the upper rack and bake for 55-65 minutes until the cheesecake is set around the edges. You can expect a slight jiggle in the center of the cheesecake.
- When the cheesecake is done cooking, turn the oven off and prop the oven door open about 4 inches. Keep the cheesecake in the oven for an hour until it is completely cooled.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight is best.
- When ready to serve, whip together the cream and place a dollop on top!
Tips for Success
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing for the smoothest filling.
- Refrigerating overnight allows the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to set perfectly.
Additional Tips or Variations
- Try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.
- For a more intense lime flavor, add a bit more zest to the cheesecake filling.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 32g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use regular lime instead of key lime?
- Yes, regular lime will work, but key limes offer a unique and more intense flavor.
- How long can I store the cheesecake?
- The cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Conclusion
Are you ready to dive into this delicious Copycat Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Pie? It’s a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Once you try it, don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below. Enjoy!