Key lime pie is a quintessential American dessert that captures the essence of summer with its bright, tangy flavor and creamy texture. Originating from the Florida Keys, this pie has become a beloved classic across the United States. With its refreshing lime filling nestled in a crisp graham cracker crust, key lime pie is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings.
This recipe for classic key lime pie combines traditional flavors with a straightforward approach, making it easy to create this delicious treat at home. Whether you’re a key lime pie aficionado or trying it for the first time, this recipe will guide you through each step to ensure your pie turns out perfectly every time.
Ingredients for Classic Key Lime Pie
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full graham crackers)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice (about 10-12 key limes)
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Whipped Cream Topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Garnishes:
- Lime zest
- Lime slices
- Fresh mint leaves
How to Make Classic Key Lime Pie
Prepare the Crust:
- Crush the Graham Crackers: In a food processor or by hand, crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs. You should have about 1 1/2 cups of crumbs.
- Mix with Sugar and Butter: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is evenly coated and resembles wet sand.
- Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture to a 9-inch pie pan. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to press the crumbs firmly and evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the pan.
- Chill the Crust: Place the crust in the refrigerator or freezer to set while you prepare the filling. This step helps the crust firm up and hold its shape.
Make the Key Lime Filling:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix Filling Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, egg yolks, and salt until well combined and smooth.
- Pour into Crust: Pour the filling into the chilled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake the Pie: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set and just starting to turn golden around the edges. The center should still be slightly jiggly.
- Cool the Pie: Allow the pie to cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set completely.
Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping:
- Beat the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla: Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Continue to beat until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
- Top the Pie: Once the pie has chilled and set, spread or pipe the whipped cream over the top of the key lime filling.
- Garnish: If desired, garnish with lime zest, lime slices, or fresh mint leaves for a beautiful presentation.
Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the pie and serve chilled. The tangy key lime filling paired with the sweet, creamy whipped topping makes for a refreshing and indulgent dessert. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you want to enjoy a taste of the Florida Keys.
About the Main Ingredients
Graham Crackers:
Graham crackers form the base of the pie crust, providing a sweet and slightly crunchy foundation that complements the creamy lime filling. They are crushed and mixed with melted butter and sugar to create a firm, flavorful crust.
Key Lime Juice:
Key lime juice is the star ingredient in the filling, giving the pie its distinctive tangy flavor. Key limes are smaller and more aromatic than regular limes, which contributes to the pie’s unique taste. Freshly squeezed key lime juice is preferred for the best flavor.
Sweetened Condensed Milk:
Sweetened condensed milk is used in the filling to add richness and sweetness. It also helps to thicken the filling, giving it a smooth, creamy texture.
Heavy Cream:
Heavy cream is essential for making the whipped cream topping. It provides a rich, creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tart lime filling.
Egg Yolks:
Egg yolks are used to thicken the filling and give it a custard-like consistency. They help to set the pie and contribute to its smooth texture.
This classic key lime pie recipe brings together fresh ingredients and simple steps to create a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious treat with family and friends!
