Key Lime Pie – A Tangy, Refreshing Classic Dessert

If you’re craving a dessert that’s both refreshing and decadent, Key Lime Pie is the answer. This timeless pie, made with tangy key lime juice, a buttery graham cracker crust, and topped with a whipped cream layer, is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or looking for an easy-to-make dessert that’s sure to impress, this Key Lime Pie recipe is simple, delicious, and bound to be a crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Key Lime Pie

• Tangy & Sweet: The balance of tart key lime juice and sweetened condensed milk creates the perfect tangy flavor.
• No-Bake Option: This pie can be made no-bake, saving you time and making it easy to prepare in advance.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for summer, holidays, or whenever you crave a refreshing dessert.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with 5 basic ingredients, this pie is easy and quick to whip up.
• Light & Refreshing: The smooth and creamy texture of the filling is complemented by the crisp graham cracker crust.

Ingredients

for Key Lime Pie

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs – Use pre-crushed or crush your own.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the crust.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted) – Helps bind the crust together.

For the Filling:

• 3/4 cup fresh key lime juice – If you can’t find fresh key limes, bottled key lime juice works well too. Homemade Samoas Girl Scout Cookies
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk – For a rich, creamy texture.
• 3 large egg yolks – For structure and richness.

For the Topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream – For a fluffy and smooth whipped cream topping.
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar – To sweeten the whipped cream.
• Lime zest (optional) – For garnish, to enhance the lime flavor and add a pop of color.

How to Make Key Lime Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are fully coated in butter.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Use the back of a spoon to pack it tightly.
4. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Key Lime Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and key lime juice until smooth and well combined.
2. Pour the filling into the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
3. Bake the pie at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly firm but still jiggly. The pie should not be fully set, as it will firm up as it cools.
4. Let the pie cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to set completely.

Step 3: Make the Whipped Cream Topping

1. In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar using an electric mixer on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form.
2. Once the pie is fully set and chilled, spread the whipped cream over the top of the pie, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Garnish with lime zest for added flavor and decoration (optional).

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Slice the pie into wedges and serve chilled. Enjoy the tangy, creamy goodness of your homemade Key Lime Pie!

Tips for the Perfect Key Lime Pie

• Use Fresh Key Limes: If you can find fresh key limes, they offer the best flavor. If not, bottled key lime juice works just fine.
• Don’t Overbake the Filling: The filling should be slightly jiggly in the center when it comes out of the oven. Overbaking may cause cracks in the filling.
• Chill for Best Results: The pie must chill for a few hours (or overnight) to set completely. This will give it the perfect texture.
• Whipped Cream Topping: For extra fluffiness, make sure the cream is cold before whipping. You can also add a touch of vanilla extract to the whipped cream for extra flavor.
• Make it Ahead of Time: Key Lime Pie is perfect for making ahead. In fact, it often tastes even better the day after making it as the flavors have more time to develop.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Regular Limes Instead of Key Limes?

Key limes are smaller and have a more intense flavor than regular limes, but you can substitute them with regular limes if needed. The pie will still taste delicious, but it will be a little less tangy.

Can I Make the Key Lime Pie Without Baking It?

Yes! To make this pie without baking it, simply skip the baking step and refrigerate the crust and filling together for 6-8 hours until the filling sets. Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms Bok Choy

Can I Freeze Key Lime Pie?

Yes, you can freeze Key Lime Pie for up to 2 months. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and thaw it in the fridge before serving.

How Can I Make the Pie Gluten-Free?

To make the pie gluten-free, simply substitute the regular graham cracker crumbs with a gluten-free version or use gluten-free cookies that are crushed into crumbs.

Why You Should Make Key Lime Pie

This Key Lime Pie recipe is a classic for a reason – it’s refreshing, tangy, and oh-so-creamy. Perfect for summer BBQs, holiday parties, or any occasion when you want to impress your guests with something simple yet delicious. The graham cracker crust adds a crispy contrast to the smooth filling, while the whipped cream topping completes the pie with a touch of sweetness. Make this easy dessert today and enjoy a slice of tropical bliss!