key lime pie

Introduction

Key Lime Pie is a classic American dessert that offers a perfect balance of tart, sweet, and creamy flavors. With its smooth filling made from key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolks, all nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust, Key Lime Pie is the ultimate indulgence for citrus lovers. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or making it for a special occasion, this tangy treat is always a crowd-pleaser!

 Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Chill Time: 3-4 hours (or overnight)

• Total Time: 4-5 hours

• Yield: 8 servings

• Difficulty: Easy

• Flavor Intensity: Tangy, creamy, sweet

• Best For: Summer gatherings, special occasions, casual desserts

 Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 graham crackers)

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

• Pinch of salt (optional)

For the Filling:

• 3 large egg yolks

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

• 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice (or regular lime juice if key limes are not available)

• Zest of 2 limes

• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)

For the Topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Lime slices (for garnish, optional)

• Lime zest (for garnish, optional)

 Equipment Needed

• 9-inch pie pan (preferably a glass or ceramic one)

• Mixing bowls

• Electric mixer or hand whisk

• Grater for zesting

• Whisk or spatula

 Instructions

 Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt (if using). Stir until evenly mixed.

3. Pour in the melted butter and mix until all the crumbs are coated, and the mixture starts to clump together.

4. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan to form a crust. Use the back of a spoon or a glass to press it firmly.

5. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and fragrant. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.

 Step 2: Make the Key Lime Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they’re light and frothy.

2. Add the sweetened condensed milk and whisk again until smooth.

3. Stir in the fresh lime juice and lime zest, mixing well until everything is fully incorporated. The filling should be thick and smooth.

4. If you’d like a richer texture, gently fold in heavy cream for extra creaminess.

5. Pour the lime filling into the cooled graham cracker crust and spread it out evenly with a spatula.

 Step 3: Bake the Pie

1. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the filling is just set and no longer wobbly in the center.

2. The top should be slightly firm to the touch, but the pie will continue to set as it cools.

3. Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature.

4. Once cooled, refrigerate the pie for at least 3-4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to fully set.

 Step 4: Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping

1. In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form.

2. Once your pie is fully chilled and set, spread the whipped cream generously over the top of the pie.

3. Garnish with lime slices and a sprinkle of lime zest for an extra pop of color and flavor.

 Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Slice the chilled Key Lime Pie into wedges and serve cold. Enjoy the tangy, creamy goodness with every bite!

 Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Key Lime Pie can be frozen if you’d like to keep it longer. Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

 Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

 FAQs

Can I use regular lime juice instead of key lime juice?

Yes, if you can’t find fresh key limes, you can substitute with regular lime juice. The flavor will still be tangy and delicious, though it will be slightly different from the authentic key lime flavor. Fresh lime juice is always best!

Can I make this pie without eggs?

If you’re concerned about using raw eggs, you can use egg substitutes or pasteurized eggs for safety. However, the egg yolks add to the creamy texture, so make sure the substitute you use works for custard-style pies.

Can I use a store-bought graham cracker crust?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time or want to make this recipe even easier, a store-bought graham cracker crust will work just fine. It will save you a few steps, and the pie will still taste amazing.

Can I make this Key Lime Pie in advance?

Yes! Key Lime Pie is actually better when it’s made ahead of time. The longer it chills, the more the flavors develop, and the texture becomes even more firm. It’s the perfect dessert to make a day or two in advance.

Can I top this pie with something other than whipped cream?

Certainly! You can switch things up with other toppings like:

• Coconut flakes (for a tropical twist)

• Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries)

• Candied lime peel for an extra citrusy touch

• Crushed graham crackers for a little crunch

Can I make this a low-carb version?

Yes, you can make a low-carb Key Lime Pie by using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, and by using a low-carb graham cracker alternative for the crust.

 Why You’ll Love This Key Lime Pie

• Tangy & Creamy – The combination of tart lime juice and creamy filling is irresistible.

• Simple to Make – With minimal ingredients and a no-bake option, this pie is perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers.

• Perfectly Balanced – It’s not too sweet, not too sour—just the right balance of flavors.

• Versatile – Customize the crust, toppings, and garnishes to suit your taste or occasion.