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Get ready to experience the authentic taste of the Florida Keys with this Key West Key Lime Pie recipe. With its creamy filling, tangy Key lime flavor, and buttery graham cracker crust, this dessert is perfect for summer gatherings, dinner parties, or whenever you crave a refreshing treat. Topped with fluffy whipped cream, every bite is a taste of sunshine.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This Key Lime Pie is a classic for a reason. Its velvety filling balances tangy lime and sweet condensed milk perfectly, while the graham cracker crust provides a crunchy, buttery base. Whether you're an experienced baker or a novice, this recipe is straightforward and delivers impressive results. It's versatile too—easily customizable with different crusts or toppings to suit your taste.
Ingredients for Key Lime Pie
- Graham Crackers: 1½ cups finely crushed, for a classic, buttery crust.
- Butter: 6 tablespoons melted, to bind the crust.
- Sugar: ¼ cup for the crust, plus 2 tablespoons for whipped cream.
- Condensed Milk: 2 (14 oz) cans sweetened condensed milk for rich, creamy filling.
- Key Lime Juice: ¾ cup fresh or bottled, authentic Key lime juice.
- Egg Yolks: 4 large, for structure and richness.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup for whipped topping.
- Lime Zest: From 2 limes for garnish and extra flavor.
How to Make the Crust
- Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Make the Crust Mixture
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Form the Crust
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of your prepared pie dish. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to compress it evenly.
- Pre-Bake
- Bake the crust for 7-8 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool while preparing the filling.
Making the Key Lime Filling
- Mix the Filling
- In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, Key lime juice, and egg yolks until smooth.
- Add Extra Flavor
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of lime zest for enhanced flavor and tiny specs of color throughout the filling.
- Fill and Bake
- Pour the mixture into your cooled crust and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until tiny bubbles burst on the surface and the filling is barely set.
- Test for Doneness
- The filling should be slightly jiggly when gently shaken. Don't overbake, as the pie will continue to set as it cools.
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Cooling and Serving
Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature before covering it with plastic wrap and refrigerating for at least 2 hours. To serve, slice the pie into eight even pieces and top each slice with fresh whipped cream. Garnish with a sprinkle of lime zest or a thin slice of lime for a professional touch.
Storing and Make-Ahead Tips
Key Lime Pie stores beautifully. Cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in aluminum foil and plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. This pie can also be made a day ahead, making it a convenient dessert for any gathering.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use regular limes instead of Key limes?
Yes, you can use regular Persian limes if Key limes aren't available. The taste will be slightly different but still delicious. Just make sure to use fresh lime juice, not bottled.
- → How do I know when the pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. It will continue to set as it cools. Overbaking can cause cracks in the surface.
- → How long does Key Lime Pie last?
This pie will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when covered well. The crust might soften slightly but the flavor will still be great.
- → Can I freeze Key Lime Pie?
Yes, you can freeze this pie for up to a month. Wrap it well and thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Add the whipped cream topping just before serving.
- → Why are my egg yolks important?
Egg yolks help thicken the filling and give it a rich, creamy texture. They also add a beautiful yellow color to complement the lime.