Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a decadent Copycat Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Delight. This masterpiece features a sublime graham cracker base, a luscious and zesty core, and a lavish topping of sweet whipped cream.
Ingredients:
For the Graham Cracker Base:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons melted butter
For the Key Lime Cheesecake:
- 3 bars (8 oz each) softened cream cheese
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 3 large eggs
For the Sweetened Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- Lime zest or slices for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Adjust the oven racks so that one is just above the middle position and the other just below it. Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray.
- In a roomy mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is thoroughly blended.
- Press this graham cracker mixture firmly onto the bottom and up the sides (about 1/2 inch up) of the prepared springform pan.
- Bake the crust for 15 minutes, then remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely. While the crust is cooling, you can proceed to prepare the delectable cheesecake filling.
- For the filling, employ a large bowl and an electric mixer, or use an electric stand mixer. Beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lime zest until the mixture achieves a velvety and creamy consistency, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Add the freshly squeezed lime juice and mix until fully combined. Then, gently introduce the eggs and mix just until they are incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to cracking during baking.
- Pour this delightful cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread it evenly.
- Position a metal or glass pan on the lower rack of the oven and pour in 3 cups of boiling water.
- Immediately place the cheesecake on the upper rack and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the cheesecake sets around the edges. There may be a slight jiggle in the center, which is perfectly normal.
- Once the baking is complete, turn off the oven and prop the oven door open about 4 inches.
- Allow the cheesecake to rest in the cooling oven for an hour until it reaches room temperature.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, although overnight is the optimal choice for impeccable results.
- When it’s time to serve, whip together the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar until it becomes thick and decadently creamy. You can either spread the whipped cream evenly over the cheesecake or create an elegant piped border around the edges.
- For an extra touch of citrusy goodness, garnish with lime slices or a sprinkle of lime zest.
Indulge in the magnificence of your homemade Copycat Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Delight, capturing the essence of this renowned dessert with every delectable bite.
