Key Lime Pie Recipe
Key Lime Pie is a classic dessert that perfectly balances tartness and sweetness in every bite. With its buttery graham cracker crust, creamy key lime filling, and fluffy whipped topping, it’s a dessert that feels indulgent yet refreshing. Originating in the Florida Keys, this pie has become a beloved treat worldwide, especially during warmer months.
The tangy flavor of fresh lime juice combined with the richness of condensed milk creates a silky filling that is irresistibly smooth. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, summer picnic, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, Key Lime Pie is an easy-to-make dessert that delivers gourmet-level results.
Cooking Time, Prep Time, and Servings
– Preparation Time: 15 minutes
– Cooking Time: 15 minutes
– Chilling Time: 2–3 hours
– Servings: 8 slices
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Tangy and Sweet: Perfectly balanced flavors that are neither too sour nor too sweet.
2. Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh lime juice for an authentic taste.
3. Minimal Effort: Easy to prepare with only a few steps.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly: Chills in the fridge, making it perfect for entertaining.
5. Versatile: Dress it up with whipped cream, lime zest, or even a meringue topping.
Ingredients Notes
– Key Lime Juice: Fresh key lime juice is best, but bottled works in a pinch. Regular lime juice can be substituted if key limes are unavailable.
– Sweetened Condensed Milk: Provides the creamy texture and sweetness for the filling.
– Graham Crackers: Use finely crushed graham crackers for a sturdy crust. Pre-made graham cracker crusts are also an option for convenience.
– Butter: Melted butter binds the graham cracker crust together.
– Egg Yolks: Add richness and help set the pie filling.
– Whipped Topping: Optional but recommended for garnish. Use fresh whipped cream or store-bought.
How to Make Key Lime Pie
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of crushed graham crackers, ⅓ cup of granulated sugar, and 6 tablespoons of melted butter. Press the mixture evenly into a 9-inch pie dish, covering the bottom and sides. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let cool.
3. Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, whisk together 3 egg yolks, 1 can of sweetened condensed milk (14 ounces), and ½ cup of key lime juice. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Fill and Bake: Pour the filling into the cooled crust and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the filling is just set and slightly jiggly in the center.
5. Chill: Let the pie cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for 2–3 hours or until fully chilled.
6. Garnish and Serve: Top with whipped cream and garnish with lime zest or thin lime slices before serving.
Storage Options
– Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
– Freezer: Key Lime Pie freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
– Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
– Lemon Variation: Substitute lime juice with lemon juice for a Lemon Pie twist.
– Coconut Twist: Add shredded coconut to the crust for a tropical flair.
– Vegan Option: Use dairy-free condensed milk and a vegan whipped topping. Replace egg yolks with a cornstarch slurry for thickening.
– No-Bake: Skip the baking step by using a no-bake graham cracker crust and chilling the pie until set.
Conclusion
Key Lime Pie is a timeless dessert that delivers a vibrant burst of flavor in every bite. Its simplicity, refreshing taste, and elegant presentation make it a dessert that everyone loves. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying it solo, this pie is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Give it a try and savor the zesty goodness!