Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Pie – Copycat Version
This Copycat Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Cheesecake perfectly combines the tangy, zesty flavor of key lime with the rich, creamy texture of a classic New York-style cheesecake. Baking it in a water bath and allowing it to cool slowly ensures a smooth, crack-free finish.
Copycat Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Cheesecake
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Graham cracker crumbs | 1 ½ cups |
| Granulated sugar | 2 tbsp |
| Butter, melted | 6 tbsp |
For the Filling:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cream cheese, softened | 3 (8 oz) bars |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Cornstarch | 1 tbsp |
| Lime zest | 1 tbsp |
| Lime juice | ½ cup |
| Eggs | 3 large |
For the Topping:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Heavy whipping cream | 1 cup |
| Powdered sugar | ¼ cup |
| Lime zest or slices | For garnish |
Instructions:
1. Prep the Crust
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C) and lightly spray a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and ½ inch up the sides of the pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then allow to cool completely.
2. Make the Filling
- Beat cream cheese, sugar, cornstarch, and lime zest until smooth.
- Add lime juice and mix, then fold in eggs just until combined.
- Tip: Avoid over-mixing the eggs to prevent cracks in the cheesecake.
3. Prepare the Water Bath
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust.
- Place a pan with 3 cups of boiling water on the bottom oven rack and set the cheesecake on the rack above.
4. Bake and Cool Slowly
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, until edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly.
- Turn off the oven and prop the door open about 4 inches. Leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour to cool gradually.
5. Chill
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors and texture to fully develop.
6. Finish and Serve
- Whip heavy cream and powdered sugar until thick.
- Spread or pipe on top of the chilled cheesecake and garnish with extra lime zest or thin lime slices.
