Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Pie

Cheesecake Factory-Inspired Key Lime Pie

This copycat recipe captures the creamy, tart-sweet filling and buttery graham cracker crust of the famous restaurant’s Key Lime Pie—topped with a whipped cream rosette and lime garnish. Perfectly balanced and refreshing.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

· 1½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
· ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
· 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter, melted
· Pinch of salt

For the Filling:

· 4 large egg yolks
· 2 (14 oz / 396g) cans sweetened condensed milk
· ¾ cup (180ml) bottled Key lime juice (Nellie & Joe’s preferred) or fresh lime juice
· 2 tbsp lime zest (from about 4–5 limes)
· 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
· Green food coloring (optional, just a drop for signature hue)

For the Topping:

· 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
· 3 tbsp powdered sugar
· ½ tsp vanilla extract
· Thin lime slices or zest, for garnish

Special Equipment:

· 9-inch springform pan or pie dish
· Electric mixer
· Fine grater/zester

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Crust

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and salt. Stir in melted butter until crumbs are evenly moist.
3. Press firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan or pie dish.
4. Bake for 8–10 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Let cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a large bowl, whisk egg yolks until smooth.
2. Add sweetened condensed milk and whisk until fully combined.
3. Gradually whisk in Key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla. If using, add a tiny drop of green food coloring for the signature pastel green (optional).
4. Pour filling into the cooled crust and smooth the top.

Step 3: Bake & Chill

1. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–18 minutes—the center should be set but still slightly jiggly.
2. Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight until fully set.

Step 4: Prepare Topping & Garnish

1. Before serving, whip cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
2. Pipe or spread whipped cream over the chilled pie.
3. Garnish with lime slices or zest.

Tips for Authentic Flavor & Texture:

· Use bottled Key lime juice for the signature tart, authentic flavor (Cheesecake Factory uses it too).
· Don’t overbake—the filling will firm up as it chills.
· For clean slices, dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe between cuts.
· Make ahead: The pie can be made 2 days in advance; add whipped cream topping just before serving.

Serving Suggestion:

Serve chilled, with extra lime zest on top. Pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of Moscato.

Yield: One 9-inch pie (10–12 slices)
Prep time: 25 minutes
Bake time: 25 minutes
Chill time: 6+ hours

Enjoy this bright, creamy, and perfectly sweet-tart pie that tastes just like the restaurant favorite!