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Homemade Key Lime Pie Recipe

Homemade Key Lime Pie Recipe


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4.9 from 38 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Creamy Key Lime Pie delights with zesty Florida citrus and a graham cracker crust that whispers tropical paradise. Silky filling and tangy lime notes promise sweet comfort with each refreshing slice.


Ingredients

Scale

Pie Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/3 cup (75 milliliters) melted butter
  • 1/4 cup (50 grams) sugar

Filling:

  • 1 can (14 ounces / 400 grams) sweetened condensed milk
  • 4 egg yolks
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) fresh key lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest

Topping:

  • Whipped cream

Instructions

  1. Craft a delicate graham cracker foundation by combining crumbs with melted butter and sugar, pressing firmly into a 9-inch pie dish. Toast at 350F for 8-10 minutes until edges turn golden, then allow to cool completely.
  2. Create a vibrant filling by whisking egg yolks with fragrant lime zest until the mixture becomes pale and slightly thickened. Gradually incorporate condensed milk, stirring constantly to maintain a silky texture.
  3. Gently fold fresh lime juice into the creamy mixture, ensuring a smooth and well-integrated consistency that promises tangy brightness.
  4. Transfer the velvety filling into the prepared crust, spreading evenly to prevent air pockets. Bake for 15 minutes, watching for a subtle set and slight wobble in the center.
  5. Remove from oven and let the pie rest at room temperature, allowing it to settle and develop its signature creamy texture. Refrigerate for minimum 2 hours to achieve perfect slicing consistency.
  6. Just before serving, crown the chilled pie with billowy whipped cream, creating elegant peaks and swirls across the surface.
  7. Enhance the presentation by sprinkling delicate lime zest over the cream, adding a pop of color and intensifying the citrus profile.

Notes

  • Ensure graham crackers are finely crushed for a smooth, compact crust that holds together perfectly when sliced.
  • Use fresh lime juice and zest for the most vibrant, tangy flavor – bottled juice can’t compare to the bright, authentic taste of freshly squeezed limes.
  • Chill the pie thoroughly to achieve the ideal creamy texture that sets beautifully and slices cleanly without falling apart.
  • For a gluten-free version, swap graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies to make the recipe accessible to more dessert lovers.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg