Key Lime Pie
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Savor the bright, zesty flavor of Key Lime Pie with this easy-to-follow recipe! This classic dessert, with its creamy filling and buttery graham cracker crust, is a refreshing treat perfect for any occasion. It's the ideal way to end a summer meal or impress your guests at a dinner party. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and tart in every slice!
Key Lime Pie is a delicious dessert that takes you right to the tropics. The combination of tart key lime juice and sweetened condensed milk creates a luscious filling nestled in a crunchy graham cracker crust. Perfect for any occasion from a summer barbecue to a formal dinner party!
Perfect for Any Season
Key Lime Pie is not just a dessert for summer gatherings; it can brighten up any season. The unique combination of sweet and tart flavors makes it suitable for both hot and cold weather. Imagine serving this tropical delight at a winter holiday gathering, offering guests a refreshing contrast to heavier holiday treats. Its vibrant color and tangy flavor will surely bring smiles and satisfaction, no matter the time of year.
Even in chilly seasons, the zest of key lime can evoke warm memories of summery beach vacations. This makes Key Lime Pie a versatile dessert choice for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual backyard barbecue or a formal dinner party, this pie provides a wonderful balance that appeals to a variety of palates.
A Recipe to Impress
One of the best things about Key Lime Pie is that it’s not only delicious, but it also has a wow factor that can impress your guests. The combination of the creamy filling, the buttery crust, and the light topping of whipped cream creates a stunning presentation that is sure to draw compliments. Serve it on a beautiful pie dish, and you'll have a show-stopping dessert to share.
Moreover, the recipe is relatively simple, allowing even novice bakers to whip up this impressive dessert without much fuss. The ingredients are easy to find, and the steps are straightforward, making it accessible yet sophisticated. Your guests will be pleasantly surprised to learn that such an exquisite dessert can be homemade with ease.
Customization Options
One of the best aspects of making Key Lime Pie is that it can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free alternatives. This way, everyone can enjoy this classic treat without worrying about dietary restrictions.
You can also play with flavors by adding a fruity twist. Consider incorporating fresh berries or other citrus fruits like orange or lemon into the filling for added complexity and color. This flexibility allows you to create a unique dessert every time you make it, ensuring that it never feels repetitive or boring.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
For the Topping
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- Lime slices, for garnish
Instructions
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious Key Lime Pie!
Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie pan and bake for 10 minutes. Remove and let cool.
Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, egg yolks, and lime zest until smooth. Pour the filling into the cooled crust.
Bake the Pie
Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
Prepare the Topping
In a mixing bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the chilled pie and garnish with lime slices.
Enjoy your homemade Key Lime Pie!
More About Key Limes
Did you know that key limes are smaller and more aromatic than regular limes? Their unique flavor is what makes Key Lime Pie so special. Originating from the Florida Keys, these limes have a slightly more intense tartness compared to their Persian counterparts. This distinct taste is what makes your pie genuinely stand out among other lime desserts, giving it that authentic, zesty kick.
When shopping for key limes, look for those that are firm yet slightly yielding to the touch. Their vibrant yellow-green color indicates ripeness and freshness, which will significantly enhance the flavor of your pie. If you're unable to find key limes, Persian limes can be used in a pinch, but the flavor profile will be slightly different.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Key Lime Pie experience, consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream, which beautifully complements the pie's tartness. The cool creaminess provides a perfect contrast to the zesty filling, making each bite rich and satisfying.
You can also add a sprinkle of lime zest or a drizzle of lime-infused syrup on top for extra flair. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds depth to the flavor profile, making your dessert even more enjoyable for your guests. Additionally, pairing key lime pie with a light, refreshing cocktail can create a delightful dining experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
Yes, regular limes can be used, but the flavor will be slightly different.
→ How long does Key Lime Pie last in the fridge?
It can last about 3 days when stored in the refrigerator.
Key Lime Pie
Savor the bright, zesty flavor of Key Lime Pie with this easy-to-follow recipe! This classic dessert, with its creamy filling and buttery graham cracker crust, is a refreshing treat perfect for any occasion. It's the ideal way to end a summer meal or impress your guests at a dinner party. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and tart in every slice!
Created by: Ella Townsend
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 8.0
What You'll Need
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
For the Topping
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- Lime slices, for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie pan and bake for 10 minutes. Remove and let cool.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, egg yolks, and lime zest until smooth. Pour the filling into the cooled crust.
Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
In a mixing bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the chilled pie and garnish with lime slices.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Protein: 5g