Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Pie

Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Pie: Creamy filling, tangy lime juice, graham cracker crust, and fluffy whipped cream. Dessert perfection at home!

this Recipe

Let’s rewind to a warm summer evening when my friends and I decided to treat ourselves at the Cheesecake Factory. We were stuffed from dinner but had to split a dessert. The waiter recommended the Key Lime Pie, and we thought, Why not? Big mistake. One bite in, and we were fighting over the last crumbs like kids over the best Halloween candy.

Fast forward to last weekend: I was craving that same tangy, creamy slice of heaven but didn’t feel like braving the weekend crowds (you know the ones). That’s when I decided to try recreating it at home. Spoiler alert—it’s a total win.

I won’t lie. My first attempt was messy. I might’ve forgotten to chill the pie long enough, so let’s just say it was more of a Key Lime soup. But after a bit of trial and error, I cracked the code. And now, every time I make it, I’m instantly transported to that perfect summer evening, minus the chaos of sharing.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Pie Recipe?

• Tangy Meets Sweet: The perfect balance of zesty lime and creamy sweetness.
• That Crust, Though: Buttery graham cracker goodness that complements the filling perfectly.
• Homemade Whipped Cream: Fluffy and light, it takes this pie to the next level.
• Looks Fancy, Feels Easy: It’s deceptively simple—no one needs to know you didn’t spend hours on it.
• Tweak It Your Way: Key limes, regular limes, extra zest—it’s all good.

Ingredient Notes:

Here’s why each ingredient is essential—and how you can get creative with them:

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: The foundation of the pie. If you’re feeling ambitious, crush your own graham crackers.
• Cream Cheese: The key to that luscious filling. Make sure it’s softened so you don’t end up with lumps (been there).
• Key Lime Juice: The star of the show. If key limes are hard to find, regular limes work just fine.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth to both the filling and the whipped cream. Don’t skip it.
• Heavy Cream: The base of the whipped cream topping—make sure it’s chilled for the fluffiest results.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream without making it gritty.

How To Make Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Pie?

Making this Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Pie is easier than you think. Promise.

Step 1. Start with the Crust
Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until it looks like wet sand. Press it into a 9-inch springform pan, using the back of a spoon or a glass to smooth it out. Pro tip: Chill the crust while you make the filling—it helps it stay firm.

Step 2. Whip Up the Filling
In a big bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time (I know it’s tedious, but trust me, it’s worth it), mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in the key lime juice. At this point, it’ll smell so good you’ll want to dive in, but resist—it gets better.

Step 3. Bake the Pie
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Pour the filling into the crust and smooth the top. Bake for about 55 minutes, or until the center is just slightly wobbly. It might look underdone, but that’s exactly what you want—it’ll set as it cools.

Step 4. Chill Like a Pro
Here’s the hard part: let the pie cool to room temperature, then chill it in the fridge for at least 4 hours. Overnight is even better. This is when the magic happens, so don’t rush it.

Step 5. Whip the Cream
In a chilled bowl (trust me, this helps), beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. It should be light, fluffy, and impossible not to sneak a spoonful.

Step 6. Assemble and Serve
Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie. Add a sprinkle of lime zest for that extra pop of color. Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan, slice, and serve. Prepare for applause.

Storage Options:

• Refrigerator: Keep the pie in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The whipped cream might lose a little fluff, but it’ll still taste amazing.
• Freezer: Want to save some for later? Wrap the pie (without whipped cream) tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Variations and Substitutions:

This recipe is super versatile—here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Lime Substitutes: No key limes? Regular limes or even bottled lime juice work in a pinch.
• Different Crusts: Try digestive biscuits or even Oreos for a fun twist.
• Add Coconut: Mix shredded coconut into the crust or sprinkle it on top.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for a celiac-friendly option.
• Extra Lime Love: Add lime zest to the filling for an extra citrus punch.

What to Serve with Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Pie?

This pie is a star, but it pairs beautifully with:

• Coffee or Espresso: The slight bitterness balances the sweetness of the pie.
• Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries make a lovely, colorful side.
• Cocktails: A mojito or margarita complements the lime flavors perfectly.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of dark chocolate adds a decadent touch.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better after chilling overnight.

Do I need a springform pan?

Not necessarily. A deep-dish pie pan works too, but a springform pan makes it easier to slice and serve.

Can I use store-bought whipped cream?

Sure, but homemade whipped cream is so much better—and surprisingly easy to make.

So, what do you think? Ready to bring a little Cheesecake Factory magic into your kitchen? If you try this Key Lime Pie, let me know how it goes! Did you stick to the recipe or put your own spin on it? I’d love to hear all about it in the comments below.

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Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Pie

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 55 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Experience the pleasure of our Key Lime Pie from the Cheesecake Factory, an American dessert that effortlessly combines tartness and sweetness. This delightful creation showcases a graham cracker crust, a smooth cream cheese filling infused with the essence of key lime juice and a fluffy cloud of homemade whipped cream, on the surface. With an easy-to-follow recipe you can craft this masterpiece in just over an hour leaving your palate yearning, for another delectable bite.

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8 Servings

Ingredients

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• 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

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Instructions

 

For the Crust:

1. Mix together 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs, 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar and ⅓ cup of butter.
2. Press this mixture onto the bottom of a springform pan that measures 9 inches in diameter.

Preparing the Filling:

1. 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.
2. Add the eggs one at a time making sure to mix after each addition.
3. Next blend in half a cup of lime juice (or lime juice) until it is fully incorporated.

Baking the Cheesecake:

1. Preheat your oven to a temperature of 325°F (163°C).
2. Pour the prepared filling over the crust, in your pan.
3. Bake for 55 minutes until the center is jiggly but almost set.

Chill and Top with Whipped Cream:

1. Allow your cheesecake to cool down first. Then refrigerate it for four hours so that it sets properly.
2. 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.
3. Spread this whipped cream over your chilled cheesecake.

Serve and Enjoy!

1. Remove your springform pan carefully before transferring your cheesecake onto a serving platter.
2. 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

To make the Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Pie gluten free and still delicious here are some substitutions and precautions you can follow:

Use Gluten Free Graham Crackers: Instead of graham crackers use gluten free graham crackers, for the crust. You can find these at specialty or health food stores in the form of crumbs or whole crackers.

Check Your Vanilla Extract for Gluten: Make sure your vanilla extract is gluten free by checking the label. While pure vanilla extract is usually safe some brands might have additives or alcohol derived from grains that could contain gluten. To be on the safe side choose a certified gluten free vanilla extract.

Confirm Gluten Free Key Lime Juice (or Lime Juice): Ensure that the key lime juice or lime juice you're using is free of gluten. While pure versions of these juices are gluten free it's always a good idea to double check the product label, for any potential additives that may contain gluten.

Remember to follow these steps and take precautions to enjoy your gluten free version of Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Pie.

Audrey

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Bitty

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!

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