Key Lime Pie
Key lime pie is the dessert that makes you pucker up and smile at the same time. It’s like sunshine in pie form – bright, refreshing, and impossible to resist.
Whether you’re looking for the best key lime pie recipe, wondering where did key lime pie originate, or just asking what does key lime pie taste like, we’ve got answers (and a killer easy key lime pie recipe).
Prep Time
15 minutes (plus 4 hours chilling)
Cook Time
15 minutes
Servings
8 slices
Nutrition Info (Per Slice)
Calories: 320 | Fat: 18g | Carbs: 36g | Protein: 4g | Sugar: 24g
What Is Key Lime Pie?
Before we jump into the recipe for key lime pie, let’s answer the big question: what is the key in key lime pie? It’s not a secret code – it’s the tiny, tart key limes from the Florida Keys!
This pie is a creamy, citrusy dream with a graham cracker crust. And no, is key lime pie cheesecake? Nope – it’s smoother, tangier, and way less fussy.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 crackers)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp melted butter
(Note: For a gluten-free key lime pie, swap in gluten-free graham crackers!)
For the Filling
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk (Yes, does key lime pie have dairy? Sadly, yes. But you can use dairy-free alternatives!)
- ½ cup key lime juice (Can’t find key limes? Can you use regular limes for key lime pie? Absolutely, just adjust the sweetness!)
- 1 tbsp lime zest
For the Topping
- 1 cup whipped cream
- Extra lime slices (for looks or dramatic garnish)
Kitchen Tools Needed
- 9-inch Pie Dish – The classic home for your pie.
- Mixing Bowls – One for the crust, one for the filling.
- Whisk – For beating egg yolks and combining the filling smoothly.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons – For precision in your tangy creation.
- Zester or Grater – To get that bright lime zest.
- Juicer or Fork – To squeeze every last drop of juice from your limes.
- Spatula – To scrape every bit of filling into the crust.
- Oven – For baking the crust and setting the filling.
No fancy gadgets required, just simple tools for a simply delicious pie!
How to Make Key Lime Pie
Step 1
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Step 2
Mix crust ingredients and press into a pie dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool.
Step 3
Whisk egg yolks, then mix in condensed milk, lime juice, and zest. Pour into crust.
Step 4
Bake for 15 minutes until set (it should jiggle slightly). Cool, then refrigerate for 4+ hours.
Step 5
Top with whipped cream, slice, and devour.
FAQs (Because You Asked)
Does key lime pie need to be refrigerated?
Yes! It’s dairy-based, so keep it cold. How long does key lime pie last? About 3-4 days in the fridge.
Can you freeze key lime pie?
Yes! Freeze without toppings for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
What does key lime pie taste like?
Imagine sweet, creamy custard with a sharp lime kick. It’s like summer slapped you, in a good way.
Why is it called key lime pie?
It was invented in the Florida Keys, where key limes grow like tiny, sour treasures.
Pro Tips
- For a no-bake key lime pie, use a pre-made crust and chill the filling until firm.
- Serve cold for maximum refreshment, perfect for Summer Desserts!
Now you’re a key lime pie expert. Go forth and bake (or just eat straight from the dish, we won’t judge).
Key Lime Pie
Cool, creamy key lime filling with a bold citrus zing, cradled in a buttery, crumbly graham cracker crust. Each silky-smooth bite melts on your tongue, balanced by the crunch of golden crumbs and a cloud of whipped cream. The tart lime punch makes your taste buds tingle, refreshing yet indulgent, like sunshine in dessert form. One slice is never enough.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp melted butter
For the Filling
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup key lime juice
- 1 tbsp lime zest
For the Topping
- 1 cup whipped cream
- Extra lime slices
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F.
- Make crust – Mix crumbs, sugar & butter, press into dish, bake 10 min. Cool.
- Mix filling – Whisk yolks, stir in milk, lime juice & zest. Pour into crust.
- Bake 15 min until just set (slight jiggle = perfect!). Chill 4+ hours.
- Top & serve – Add whipped cream, slice, and enjoy the tangy magic!
Pro tip: The longer it chills, the cleaner your slices will be! 😉
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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 8 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving:Calories: 320Total Fat: 18gCarbohydrates: 36gSugar: 24gProtein: 4g
