Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Pie – Experience the delight of our Key Lime Pie from The Cheesecake Factory. This iconic American dessert strikes a balance, between tangy and sweet offering a treat that will tantalize your taste buds. Picture this; a crumbly graham cracker crust with every bite, a cream cheese filling infused with key lime juice, and a generous dollop of homemade whipped cream on top. In over an hour, you can create this mouthwatering masterpiece that will leave everyone craving for more.
The time first I made this Key Lime Pie from The Cheesecake Factory for my family it was truly an unforgettable moment. As I proudly presented the pie on the dinner table there was an air of excitement and anticipation in the room. With each bite, their eyes widened in delight and the room filled with harmonious sounds of “mmm.” Even my husband, who isn’t typically fond of desserts couldn’t resist going for seconds. To my surprise, even my choosy child declared it as their all-time favorite dessert. From that moment on this pie has become a family tradition—a presence at our special occasions and celebrations.
What makes this Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Pie truly special?
What sets apart this Key Lime Pie from The Cheesecake Factory is its velvety texture that simply melts in your mouth and the captivating interplay of flavors that leaves you craving for more. The graham cracker crust provides a crispy texture that perfectly complements the creamy and slightly sweetened filling made with cream cheese, granulated sugar, and a hint of vanilla extract. However, the real standout is the lime juice that imparts a refreshing burst of citrus flavor to the filling taking this dessert to a whole new level. We mustn’t overlook the whipped cream topping that adds an indulgent touch, to each and every slice of this culinary masterpiece.
What You Need To Make This Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Pie Recipe?
Graham Cracker Crumbs: For the crust of the Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Pie you can pick from two options when it comes to using graham cracker crumbs. You can either buy pre-made graham cracker crumbs, from your grocery store or you can crush graham crackers at home. Or you can pulse the graham crackers in your food processor to make your own. The homemade crumbs will add a texture that perfectly complements the smooth filling.
Cream Cheese: To achieve that velvety smoothness that defines this cheesecake it’s important to work with softened cream cheese. Take the cream cheese out of the fridge ahead of time. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour. This will make it easier to beat and blend seamlessly with the ingredients.
Key Lime Juice (or Lime Juice): The signature flavor of this pie comes from lime juice but if you can’t find key limes don’t worry! Regular lime juice is a substitute. While key limes have an intense flavor both varieties bring a delightful citrusy zing to the cheesecake filling.
Eggs: When adding eggs to the cream cheese filling remember to incorporate them one at a time. To achieve a velvety and velvety texture it’s important to ensure that each egg is fully incorporated. However, be cautious not to overmix the batter after adding the eggs as excessive beating can introduce air and potentially cause cracks during baking.
Whipped Cream: Adding a dollop of whipped cream, on top of this Key Lime Pie takes it to another level of indulgence. To achieve the fluffiest and most stable whipped cream opt for cream with a high fat content (around 36%). Before whipping make sure both the cream and mixing bowl are chilled in the refrigerator. It’s also crucial not to overbeat the cream; otherwise, it could go from smooth and creamy to grainy or butter like
Lime Zest (Optional): While not explicitly mentioned in the recipe you can enhance this dessert by sprinkling a bit of lime zest on top of the whipped cream. Adds a burst of vibrant citrus flavor and a pop of color that boosts presentation and improves overall enjoyment.
Steps To Make Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Pie:
Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C), making sure to grease a 9-inch springform pan.
Step 2: Take a bowl. Put in the graham cracker crumbs, 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and melted butter. Give it a mix then firmly press this mixture onto the bottom of the pan to create the base, for your pie.
Step 3: Using either a stand mixer or an electric hand mixer whip up the cream cheese along with 1 cup of granulated sugar and vanilla extract on high speed until they blend into a smooth concoction.
Step 4: Now comes the magical touch – gently beat in the eggs one, at a time on low speed until they are just combined. Then, mix in the star ingredient – lime juice (or lime juice) that gives this pie its distinctively zesty flavor.
Step 5: Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust making sure to distribute it evenly.
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Step 6: Place your creation into the oven and bake for 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center jiggles slightly but is almost set. It’s important not to overbake the pie so as to maintain its velvety texture.
Step 7: Once the cake is baked perfectly gently run a knife, along the edges of the pan to loosen it. However, don’t remove the rim yet.
Step 8: Allow the pie to chill in the refrigerator for 4 hours so that the flavors can blend together beautifully. Then place the pan on a serving platter release the springform latch and carefully take off the rim.
Step 9: Now it’s time to add the pièce de résistance – whipped cream. In a stand mixer bowl whip together heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until you achieve heavenly stiff peaks.
Step 10: Spread this whipped cream over the chilled cheesecake. If you want to add a fancy touch, zest some lime on top for that picture-perfect finishing flourish.
Step 11: Slice and serve your masterpiece! As you cut into The Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Pie admire its velvety smoothness. Relish each bite. Your taste buds will dance with delight as they experience the interplay of lime flavor with creamy sweetness. This astonishing dessert is sure to delight both you and your loved ones.
Tip:
For the texture and taste, of your Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Pie it’s important to ensure that all your dairy ingredients, like cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature before you begin baking.
Using room-temperature ingredients makes it easier for them to blend together smoothly resulting in a homogenous batter without overmixing. When cream cheese is at room temperature it becomes soft. Can easily integrate with the ingredients creating a deliciously creamy filling. If you use cold ingredients you might end up with lumps or an uneven texture that can affect the flavor and appearance of your cheesecake.
To prepare ahead of time take out the cream cheese and eggs from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before starting the recipe. Allowing them to gradually reach room temperature will make them more flexible, for mixing purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use regular limes instead of key limes for this recipe?
Definitely! While key limes offer a striking tangy taste regular limes are equally suitable and will result in a pie that is just as delicious.
Can I prepare this pie in advance for a special occasion?
Absolutely! This pie is ideal, for preparing in advance for occasions. Simply refrigerate it overnight. Add the whipped cream before serving.
Can I freeze any leftover slices?
Certainly! You can freeze any leftover slices of this pie. Just make sure to wrap them in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy them simply thaw them in the refrigerator beforehand.
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Pie
Ingredients
- 1-1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tbsp. granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup of butter or margarine, melted
- 32 ounces of cream cheese softened
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 eggs
- ½ cup of key lime juice or lime juice
Whipped Cream:
- 1 ½ cups of heavy cream
- ½ cup of powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
For the Crust:
- Mix together 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs, 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar and ⅓ cup of butter.
- Press this mixture onto the bottom of a springform pan that measures 9 inches in diameter.
Preparing the Filling:
- In a bowl beat together 32 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until it becomes smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time making sure to mix after each addition.
- Next blend in half a cup of lime juice (or lime juice) until it is fully incorporated.
Baking the Cheesecake:
- Preheat your oven to a temperature of 325°F (163°C).
- Pour the prepared filling over the crust, in your pan.
- Bake for 55 minutes until the center is jiggly but almost set.
Chill and Top with Whipped Cream:
- Allow your cheesecake to cool down first. Then refrigerate it for four hours so that it sets properly.
- In another bowl whip up some cream by combining 1 ½ cups with half a cup of sugar and one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whip until you achieve stiff peaks.
- Spread this whipped cream over your chilled cheesecake.
Serve and Enjoy!
- Remove your springform pan carefully before transferring your cheesecake onto a serving platter.
- If desired garnish with some lime zest, for added flavor and presentation. Indulge in every mouthful of the Key Lime Pie, from Cheesecake Factory! Experience the tanginess!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
