Key Lime Pie
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Savor the sunshine with this delightful Key Lime Pie recipe that combines zesty lime juice, creamy filling, and a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfectly tart and sweet, this dessert is a no-bake treat that impresses at any gathering or BBQ. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, it's a must-try for lime lovers looking for a refreshing dessert option!
The Perfect Summer Dessert
Key Lime Pie is the quintessential summer dessert that brings a refreshing twist to any gathering. With its bright and tangy flavor, it’s the perfect way to cool down on a hot day. The combination of zesty key lime juice and sweetened condensed milk creates a balanced filling that’s creamy yet refreshingly tart. This dessert is more than just a treat; it’s a delightful experience that evokes memories of beach vacations and sunshine.
This pie is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, celebrating a birthday, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, Key Lime Pie stands out as a crowd-pleaser. It can easily be made ahead of time, which means less stress and more time spent with loved ones. Simply prepare the pie the night before, refrigerate it, and let it be the star of your dessert table the next day.
Tips for the Best Key Lime Pie
To achieve the perfect Key Lime Pie, use fresh key limes if possible. Their juice has a unique flavor that adds depth to the pie. However, if they’re not available, regular limes will work in a pinch—just be sure to adjust the sweetness to your taste. Also, don’t skip the zest; it elevates the pie by adding an aromatic punch that complements the sweetened condensed milk.
When mixing the filling, whisk until smooth and fully combined. Overmixing can lead to unwanted bubbles, which might affect the texture of the pie. After pouring the filling into the crust, ensure even distribution to avoid some parts being overcooked and others undercooked. Lastly, for the best texture, let the pie chill for the recommended time to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¾ cup key lime juice
- Zest of 2 limes
Topping
- Whipped cream
- Lime slices for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined and press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan. Chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes.
Make the Filling
In another bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, key lime juice, and lime zest until smooth. Pour the filling into the prepared crust.
Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the pie for at least 3 hours before serving. Top with whipped cream and lime slices just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Key Lime Pie, presentation is key. Top it off with a generous dollop of whipped cream for added richness, and garnish with thin lime slices for a pop of color. This not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also adds a burst of freshness in each bite. Consider pairing your pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast to the pie’s tartness.
For a fun twist, try serving the pie with some fresh fruit, such as strawberries or blueberries. These berries complement the lime flavor well and offer a refreshing balance, making each bite an irresistible treat. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even crumble some graham crackers on top for a crunchy texture.
Storage Tips
Key Lime Pie can be stored easily in the refrigerator for up to a week. It's best to cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain its freshness. If you want to make it ahead of time, you can prepare the crust and the filling separately and assemble them when you’re ready to serve. This helps prevent the crust from getting soggy.
If you have any leftovers, be sure to store them airtight. In the unlikely event that you have some pie left after a gathering, you can freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap it well and consume it within three months for the best flavor and texture. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving to enjoy it at its best.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make Key Lime Pie in advance?
Yes, Key Lime Pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
→ What if I can’t find key limes?
You can substitute with regular limes, though key limes provide a more authentic flavor.
Key Lime Pie
Savor the sunshine with this delightful Key Lime Pie recipe that combines zesty lime juice, creamy filling, and a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfectly tart and sweet, this dessert is a no-bake treat that impresses at any gathering or BBQ. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, it's a must-try for lime lovers looking for a refreshing dessert option!
Created by: Hallie Foster
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¾ cup key lime juice
- Zest of 2 limes
Topping
- Whipped cream
- Lime slices for garnish
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined and press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan. Chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes.
In another bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, key lime juice, and lime zest until smooth. Pour the filling into the prepared crust.
Refrigerate the pie for at least 3 hours before serving. Top with whipped cream and lime slices just before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Protein: 3g