Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Pie !!!

Instructions:

1. Make the Crust:
   Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture is well combined and looks like wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan to form the crust. Bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, lime zest (if using), egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is thoroughly combined and smooth. The lime juice will help thicken the mixture as it sits, giving it that creamy texture we love.
3. Fill the Crust:
   Pour the lime mixture into the cooled graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Bake the pie for 15-18 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. Be careful not to overcook it, as the texture should remain creamy. Once baked, allow the pie to cool to room temperature before refrigerating it for at least 3 hours, or ideally overnight, to let it firm up and chill completely.
4. Make the Whipped Cream Topping:
   While the pie chills, prepare the topping by whipping the heavy cream. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat, or it may turn into butter! Once the pie is fully chilled, spread the whipped cream over the top in a nice, even layer.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   Garnish the pie with lime wedges or a sprinkle of lime zest for a pop of color and extra flavor. Slice, serve, and enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

• Key Limes vs. Regular Limes: If you can find them, using Key limes will give your pie a more authentic, tangy flavor. Regular limes are a great substitute if Key limes are unavailable.
• Graham Cracker Crumbs: For a deeper flavor, you can use cinnamon graham crackers in place of the regular variety. This adds a slight spice that complements the lime filling beautifully.
• Whipped Cream: If you want an extra luxurious topping, you can pipe the whipped cream onto the pie using a piping bag for a more decorative presentation.
• Egg-Free Option: For a no-bake, egg-free version, you can substitute the egg yolks with cornstarch (around 2 tablespoons) to thicken the filling instead.

Why This Cheesecake Factory Key Lime Pie Works:

This cheesecake factory-inspired Key Lime Pie is the perfect balance of tart and creamy. The crust is buttery and crisp, the lime filling is refreshingly tangy yet velvety smooth, and the whipped cream topping adds a light, airy touch. It’s simple, refreshing, and sure to impress any guest.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a slice of something sweet and tangy, this Key Lime Pie is the ultimate dessert. It’s light enough to enjoy after a heavy meal, yet indulgent enough to feel like a treat. Whip it up for your next gathering and watch it disappear in no time!