If you love sweet and tangy desserts, then Key Lime Pie is the perfect treat. This classic Florida-inspired pie features a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth and creamy key lime filling, and a fluffy whipped topping. It’s a simple yet show-stopping dessert that’s light, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make!
Unlike regular lime pie, Key Lime Pie gets its signature flavor from key limes, which have a unique tartness and floral aroma. Whether you’re serving it for a summer gathering, a holiday dessert, or just because, this pie is always a crowd favorite.
Why This Recipe Works
- The perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
- A simple, no-fail filling made with just a few ingredients.
- Buttery graham cracker crust complements the creamy filling.
- Chilled and refreshing – great for warm days or special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 8 | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Bake Time: 15 minutes | Chill Time: 2+ hours)
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 crackers)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Key Lime Filling:
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest
For the Whipped Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Key Lime Pie (Step-by-Step)
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Make the Graham Cracker Crust
In a bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until it resembles wet sand. Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish, covering the bottom and sides evenly.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Key Lime Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest until smooth and creamy.
Pour the filling into the cooled crust and spread evenly.
4. Bake Until Set
Bake at 350°F for 12-15 minutes, until the filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to fully set.
5. Make the Whipped Cream Topping
In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
6. Assemble and Serve
Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie. Garnish with extra lime zest or lime slices for a decorative touch. Slice and enjoy!
Pro Tips for the Best Key Lime Pie
- Use fresh key limes for the best flavor! If unavailable, bottled key lime juice works.
- Don’t skip the chilling time – it helps the pie set and enhances the flavor.
- Make it ahead of time – this pie tastes even better after a day in the fridge!
- For a firmer crust, chill the crust for 30 minutes before baking.
What to Serve With Key Lime Pie
- Fresh berries – a great contrast to the creamy filling.
- Coconut flakes – adds a tropical twist.
- A drizzle of caramel or white chocolate for extra indulgence.
FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)
Q: Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
A: Yes! Regular limes will work, but the flavor will be slightly less tart and floral.
Q: How do I store leftover Key Lime Pie?
A: Keep it covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Q: Can I freeze Key Lime Pie?
A: Absolutely! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Q: Can I make this without baking?
A: The crust needs baking for the best texture, but you can chill the filling instead of baking it—just increase the chill time to 4 hours.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Key Lime Pie is creamy, refreshing, and bursting with citrusy goodness. It’s easy to make, perfect for any occasion, and guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re a fan of classic pies or just love a tangy-sweet dessert, this recipe is a must-try!
Give it a go and let me know how it turns out! Did you add extra toppings or try a special twist? However you make it, this pie is sure to become a favorite. Happy baking! 🥧🍋
How to Make Classic Key Lime Pie (Easy & Delicious)
Ingredients
- 3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 4 large egg yolks
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup of sugar. Mix well and press into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie pan to form the crust.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool.
- In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and remaining sugar until smooth. Gradually add key lime juice and zest, mixing until combined.
- Pour the key lime filling into the cooled crust and bake for an additional 15 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours to set.
- Before serving, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie.
- Garnish with additional lime zest or lime slices if desired. Slice and serve cold.
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