Key Lime Pie Recipe
I went on a trip with my mom to the Keys and fell in love with Key Lime Pie. It’s something about the combination of citrus and sweet that does it for me every time and this recipe has all the things you could love about a Key Lime Pie. With its zesty lime flavor, creamy filling, and buttery graham cracker crust, it’s definitely one of the best desserts that will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise.
If you love a good dessert recipe check out my Pineapple Upside Down Cake and Lemon Bundt Cake !
Moreover, this key lime pie recipe is as easy to make as it is delicious. If you’re looking for a dessert that brings together the perfect balance of tart and sweet, then this key lime pie recipe is exactly what you need. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started in the kitchen, this easy and delicious pie is sure to become one of your favorite go-to desserts.
Why You’ll Love This Key Lime Pie Recipe:
Furthermore, this Key Lime Pie recipe has all the makings of a perfectly balanced dessert with bright flavors, a creamy filling, easy to make, and sure to please the crowd.
- Bright Citrus Flavor: The tangy lime juice cuts through the richness of the sweetened condensed milk, creating a mouthwatering balance that’s neither too sweet nor too tart.
- Creamy and Silky Texture: The combination of egg yolks, sour cream, and heavy cream gives the pie a luxuriously smooth filling that melts in your mouth.
- Effortless to Make: This recipe is simple, with no fussy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. It comes together quickly, making it perfect for any occasion.
- Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re serving this for a family dinner, a summer party, or a holiday dessert, this pie is always a hit.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: These form the base of the pie and provide a crunchy, slightly sweet contrast to the creamy filling.
- Light Brown Sugar: Adds depth of flavor and a hint of caramel to the crust.
- Butter: Holds the crust together while adding richness and flavor.
- Egg Yolks: Create the silky texture of the filling and help thicken it.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness and creaminess to the pie without needing additional sugar.
- Sour Cream: Contributes a subtle tang that enhances the lime flavor while adding creaminess.
- Vanilla Bean Paste: Adds a touch of warmth and complexity to the flavor profile.
- Lime Juice: The star of the show, bringing bright citrusy notes that define this dessert.
- Heavy Cream: Used in the filling and in homemade whipped cream to add richness.
- Lime Zest: For garnish, it adds an extra layer of fresh lime flavor and a beautiful visual touch.
How to Make Homemade Key Lime Pie
- Make the Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter, then press into a pie dish. Bake until golden brown.
- Prepare the Filling: Whisk egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, vanilla bean paste, lime juice, and heavy cream. Pour into the baked crust.
- Bake the Pie: Bake until the filling is set, then cool and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
- Garnish: Top with lime zest and, if desired, homemade vanilla bean whipped cream.
How to Decorate a Key Lime Pie
Decorating your key lime pie is totally optional but I always say you eat with your eyes first. Here are a few ways you can decorate your key lime pie.
- Lime Zest: A sprinkle of fresh lime zest across the top of the pie adds both flavor and color.
- Whipped Cream: Pipe or spoon dollops of whipped cream around the edges or in the center for an elegant presentation.
- Lime Slices: Thinly slice lime rounds and arrange them in a fan pattern or around the edges of the pie for a beautiful and classic look.
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: A light dusting of extra graham cracker crumbs over the whipped cream adds texture and ties in the flavors of the crust.
Tips for the best Key Lime Pie
Additionally, by following these tips you’ll be able to make the best Key Lime Pie
- Use Fresh Lime Juice: For the best flavor, always use fresh lime juice. Bottled juice won’t have the same zing and freshness.
- Chill Time: Make sure to refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours before serving to ensure that the filling sets properly.
- Make Ahead: This key lime pie can be made a day in advance, making it an excellent option for entertaining or busy days.
FAQ
Q: Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
A: Yes! While key limes provide a more authentic flavor, regular limes are a great substitute and still deliver that delicious citrus punch.
Q: How long will the pie keep?
A: Store the pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. The crust may soften slightly, but it will still taste fantastic.
Q: Can I freeze key lime pie?
A: Yes, key lime pie freezes well. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: How do I prevent the crust from crumbling when slicing?
A: Be sure to press the crust firmly into the pie dish, and let the pie chill thoroughly before slicing. Using a sharp knife also helps to keep the slices clean and neat.
More Dessert recipes:
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Key Lime Pie Recipe
Equipment
- 9in Pie dish or springform pan
- Mixing Bowls
- whisk
- measuring cups and spoons
- Zester
Ingredients
Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter melted
Key Lime Filling
- 8 egg yolks
- 2 14oz cans sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tbs vanilla bean paste
- 1 cup fresh lime juice
- 1 tbs heavy cream
- 1 tsp lime zest
- whipped cream for garnish
Instructions
Make the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, light brown sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish or spring form pan.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Set aside to cool.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks and condensed milk until smooth.
- Add the sour cream, vanilla bean paste, lime juice, and heavy cream. Whisk until well combined and creamy.
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust and smooth the top.
Bake the Pie:
- Bake the pie for 12-15 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly jiggles in the center.
- Remove from the oven and let the pie cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to fully set.
Garnish and Serve:
- Before serving, garnish the pie with whipped cream and freshly grated lime zest.
- Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Lime Juice: Use fresh key limes for authentic flavor, but regular limes will also work well.
- Vanilla Bean Paste: This adds a unique flavor to the pie. If unavailable, vanilla extract can be substituted.
- Chill Time: Make sure to chill the pie thoroughly to set and for the best texture.
- Serving Suggestion: Top with whipped cream for added richness.
