Key Lime Pie

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Savor the zesty goodness of this classic Key Lime Pie recipe, featuring a rich and creamy filling made from fresh key lime juice and sweetened condensed milk, all nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust. This refreshing dessert is perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion when you're craving a burst of citrusy flavor. Top it off with fluffy whipped cream for the ultimate treat!

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-13T18:33:47.437Z

Discover the delightful taste of a classic Key Lime Pie. This dessert combines the tartness of fresh lime juice with the sweetness of condensed milk, creating a perfect balance. It’s an ideal treat for any occasion!

The Perfect Balance of Sweet and Tart

Key Lime Pie is a delightful dessert that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart flavors. The combination of fresh key lime juice and sweetened condensed milk creates a creamy filling that is both rich and refreshing. This unique flavor profile makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to enjoy a dessert that isn’t overly sweet but still satisfies the palate.

The use of fresh key limes enhances the pie's zesty character. Unlike regular limes, key limes are smaller and have a more intense flavor. This makes them ideal for creating that signature tanginess that complements the sweetness of the condensed milk, resulting in a dessert that is sure to impress.

A Summer Favorite

Key Lime Pie is often associated with summer and outdoor gatherings. Its refreshing citrus flavor makes it an ideal choice for picnics, barbecues, and parties. The chilled pie provides a cooling effect on warm days, making it the perfect ending to any summertime meal. Whether you're celebrating a holiday or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon, this pie is sure to be a hit.

In addition to its delightful taste, Key Lime Pie is visually appealing. Its vibrant green color, coupled with a dollop of fluffy whipped cream on top, makes for an eye-catching dessert that will wow your guests. You can even garnish it with lime slices or zest for an extra touch of sophistication.

Easy to Make, Hard to Resist

One of the best aspects of Key Lime Pie is how simple it is to make. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delightful dessert in no time. Even novice bakers can achieve perfect results, making it a great recipe to share with friends and family who might be new to the kitchen.

The combination of a buttery graham cracker crust and a creamy filling is not only delicious but also versatile. Feel free to experiment with variations, such as adding a touch of coconut or mint for an extra layer of flavor. This adaptability allows you to customize the pie to fit any occasion or personal taste.

Ingredients

For the crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the filling

  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest

For the topping

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to use fresh key limes for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the crust

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden brown. Remove and allow to cool.

Make the filling

In another bowl, whisk together the egg yolks. Gradually add sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest, mixing until smooth. Pour the filling into the cooled crust.

Bake the pie

Bake the pie in the oven for 10 minutes. Remove and let it cool, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.

Prepare the topping

In a bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the chilled pie before serving.

Serve chilled and enjoy your refreshing Key Lime Pie!

Storage Tips

To keep your Key Lime Pie fresh, it’s best stored in the refrigerator. Place it in an airtight container or cover it with plastic wrap to prevent it from absorbing any unwanted flavors. The pie can usually be kept in the fridge for up to four days, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week.

If you want to prepare the pie ahead of time, you can bake the crust and make the filling, then assemble it just before serving. This makes for an easy and stress-free hosting experience, ensuring that you have one fewer dish to prep on the day of your event.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your Key Lime Pie, consider pairing it with fresh fruit. Berries such as strawberries or blueberries can add a delightful burst of color and enhance the flavor profile. A sprinkle of crushed graham crackers can also give an added crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

For extra indulgence, you might want to serve the pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of lime-infused syrup. These additions can elevate the overall dessert experience, making it a decadent treat that guests won’t soon forget.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes, although key limes provide a distinct and traditional flavor for this pie.

→ How long can I store the pie?

The pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Key Lime Pie

Savor the zesty goodness of this classic Key Lime Pie recipe, featuring a rich and creamy filling made from fresh key lime juice and sweetened condensed milk, all nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust. This refreshing dessert is perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion when you're craving a burst of citrusy flavor. Top it off with fluffy whipped cream for the ultimate treat!

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration10 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 8 servings

What You'll Need

For the crust

  1. 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  2. 1/3 cup sugar
  3. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the filling

  1. 4 large egg yolks
  2. 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
  3. 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice
  4. 1 teaspoon lime zest

For the topping

  1. 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  2. 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  3. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden brown. Remove and allow to cool.

Step 02

In another bowl, whisk together the egg yolks. Gradually add sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest, mixing until smooth. Pour the filling into the cooled crust.

Step 03

Bake the pie in the oven for 10 minutes. Remove and let it cool, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.

Step 04

In a bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the chilled pie before serving.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Protein: 3g