Key Lime Pie

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience a burst of citrus bliss with this classic Key Lime Pie recipe. Made with freshly squeezed key limes and a buttery graham cracker crust, this dessert is the perfect balance of tart and sweet. Serve it chilled for a refreshing treat that will impress at any gathering or special occasion.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-11-13T16:22:59.251Z

This Key Lime Pie holds a special place in my heart as it reminds me of family gatherings during the summer. The vibrant flavors of key limes combined with the crunchy texture of the crust make it a timeless dessert.

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

Key Lime Pie is a dessert that celebrates the vibrant flavors of fresh key limes. The bright acidity of the limes is perfectly countered by the rich creaminess of the sweetened condensed milk, creating a delightful contrast that tantalizes your taste buds. When combined with the buttery graham cracker crust, each bite offers a harmonious blend that is both refreshing and satisfying, making it an ideal dessert for warm weather gatherings.

This harmonious balance of flavors is what makes Key Lime Pie a beloved classic. The tartness of the key limes enhances the sweetness of the filling without overwhelming it, resulting in a dish that feels indulgent yet light. It's an excellent choice for those who prefer desserts with a citrus twist, and its stunning presentation adds to its allure.

Easy Preparation and Versatility

One of the best aspects of this Key Lime Pie recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a stunning dessert that impresses both family and guests. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is easy to follow and doesn’t require any specialized equipment.

Additionally, Key Lime Pie is versatile. While the classic version remains a favorite, you can experiment with different variations by adding ingredients such as coconut or berry toppings to give it your unique twist. This adaptability makes it a perfect choice for birthdays, holidays, or simply enjoying a sweet treat on a sunny day.

Serving and Storage Tips

To elevate your Key Lime Pie experience, serve it chilled with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream on top. Not only does this add a delightful contrast in texture, but it also enhances the overall flavor. For an extra touch, garnishing with lime slices adds both visual appeal and a zesty aroma that invites anticipation with each slice.

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing Key Lime Pie is simple. Cover the pie with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to three days. Always remember to serve it chilled for the best taste and texture, ensuring that the zesty flavors remain refreshing and invigorating.

Ingredients

For the Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 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 freshly squeezed key lime juice
  • Zest of 2 key limes

For Topping

  • Whipped cream (for serving)
  • Lime slices (for garnish)

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

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan.

Bake for 10 minutes and allow to cool.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Stir in key lime juice and zest until well combined. Pour the filling into the cooled crust.

Bake

Bake the pie for an additional 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Serve chilled, topped with whipped cream and garnished with lime slices.

Nutritional Information

When you're indulging in a slice of Key Lime Pie, you might be curious about its nutritional profile. Each slice contains a balance of carbohydrates and fats, primarily coming from the graham cracker crust and sweetened condensed milk. While it’s certainly a treat to savor, moderation is key, especially if you're keeping an eye on your caloric intake.

In terms of vitamins, key lime juice offers a good source of vitamin C. This nutrient is essential for overall health and can support your immune system. So while you enjoy the sweetness, know that you’re also getting a boost of nutrition from these zesty limes!

Fun Facts About Key Limes

Key limes, smaller and more aromatic than their Persian counterparts, are a staple in Florida cuisine. These tiny citrus fruits originated in Southeast Asia and made their way to the Florida Keys in the 1800s, where they thrived in the subtropical climate. Key Lime Pie is often considered the official pie of Florida, symbolizing the region's culinary heritage.

Additionally, the unique flavor profile of key limes comes from their higher acidity compared to other limes. This distinct taste makes them ideal for pies and cocktails alike. The vibrant green color of key limes is also a sign of their freshness and quality, contributing to the overall appeal of this delicious dessert.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes, but the flavor will differ slightly. Key limes are smaller and more aromatic.

→ How long can I store the Key Lime Pie?

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

Key Lime Pie

Experience a burst of citrus bliss with this classic Key Lime Pie recipe. Made with freshly squeezed key limes and a buttery graham cracker crust, this dessert is the perfect balance of tart and sweet. Serve it chilled for a refreshing treat that will impress at any gathering or special occasion.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration10 minutes
Overall Time30 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 8 servings

What You'll Need

For the Crust

  1. 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  2. 1/4 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 freshly squeezed key lime juice
  4. Zest of 2 key limes

For Topping

  1. Whipped cream (for serving)
  2. Lime slices (for garnish)

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Bake for 10 minutes and allow to cool.

Step 02

In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Stir in key lime juice and zest until well combined. Pour the filling into the cooled crust.

Step 03

Bake the pie for an additional 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 320
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 25g
  • Protein: 4g