Key Lime Pie is a classic American dessert that originates from the Florida Keys, loved for its creamy, tangy filling and buttery graham cracker crust. This dessert strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart, offering a refreshing treat ideal for warm weather or any occasion where you want to impress with a light yet indulgent pie.
Traditionally made with Key lime juice, egg yolks, and sweetened condensed milk, this pie boasts a smooth texture and a citrusy punch that’s hard to resist. Topped with either whipped cream or a soft meringue, each slice delivers a burst of flavor and comfort that transports you straight to the tropics. Easy to prepare yet elegant to serve, Key Lime Pie is a must-try for dessert lovers everywhere.
Ingredients
• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup Key lime juice (fresh or bottled, preferably Nellie & Joe’s)
• 1 tablespoon grated lime zest (optional for added flavor)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the crust and filling bake evenly.
• Prepare the crust by mixing the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until the mixture resembles wet sand.
• Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan to form an even crust. Use the bottom of a glass to pack it down tightly.
• Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
• Separate the egg yolks and place them in a mixing bowl. Beat them on medium speed until they are slightly thickened and lighter in color, about 2–3 minutes.
• Add the sweetened condensed milk to the yolks and continue beating until fully combined and smooth.
• Pour in the Key lime juice gradually while mixing, allowing the acid to gently react with the milk and thicken the filling naturally. Add lime zest if using, for a deeper citrus flavor.
• Pour the filling into the pre-baked crust and spread it evenly with a spatula.
• Bake the pie in the oven for 15 minutes, just until the center is set but still slightly jiggly in the middle.
• Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
• Prepare the whipped topping by beating the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until soft peaks form.
• Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie before serving. For a fancier presentation, garnish with thin lime slices or zest on top.
• Slice and serve chilled, enjoying the creamy texture and tangy citrus flavor in every bite.
This Key Lime Pie is not only simple to make but also delivers a bright, refreshing flavor that captures the essence of summer in each forkful. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just craving something sweet and citrusy, this pie offers a timeless dessert experience that’s always a crowd-pleaser.