The moment you take a bite of key lime pie, your taste buds will dance like they’re at a beach party. The vibrant tang of fresh limes paired with a creamy filling and the crunch of a graham cracker crust is a flavor explosion that leaves you craving more. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make everyone wonder if you’ve turned your home into a tropical paradise.
I can’t help but reminisce about the first time I tried making this pie. It was during a family gathering, and I confidently declared that I would be the “key lime pie champion.” Spoiler alert: my family wasn’t disappointed, and the pie disappeared faster than you could say “squeeze those limes!” This delightful dessert is perfect for summer picnics, holiday celebrations, or just because it’s Tuesday and you need to treat yourself. Get ready for an incredible flavor experience!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation makes this key lime pie a go-to dessert for any occasion
- Its refreshing flavor profile balances tartness with sweetness perfectly
- Visually appealing with its bright green hue, it’s sure to impress guests
- Versatile enough for gatherings or cozy nights in, this pie fits every scenario!
I still think about my cousin’s face when he took his first bite; pure bliss!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Key Limes: Fresh key limes are essential; they pack a punch with their tangy flavor that bottled juice just can’t match.
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Sweetened Condensed Milk: This creamy ingredient adds sweetness and gives the pie its luscious texture.
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Sour Cream: Balances the sweetness while adding an extra layer of creaminess that makes every bite heavenly.
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Graham Cracker Crumbs: A must for the crust; opt for finely crushed crumbs for a smooth texture.
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Butter: Unsalted butter works best here; it holds the crust together without adding extra saltiness.
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Granulated Sugar: Sweeten up that tartness; sugar helps create the perfect balance in your filling.
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Egg Yolks: These add richness to your filling, helping create that classic custard-like consistency.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare Your Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well mixed for that perfect crust texture.
Press Into Pie Dish: Firmly press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Bake in preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden—this creates a crispy base.
Mix Filling Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, and egg yolks until smooth. You’ll love how vibrant it looks!
Pour Into Crust: Carefully pour the filling into your pre-baked crust. Make sure it’s evenly distributed; every slice deserves equal deliciousness.
Bake The Pie: Return to oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center. Trust me; it’s going to smell divine.
Cool & Serve**: Let your key lime pie cool at room temperature before chilling in the fridge for at least two hours. Serve chilled with whipped cream on top if you’re feeling fancy!
You Must Know
- Key lime pie is a refreshing dessert that balances tartness and sweetness perfectly
- The creamy filling paired with a buttery crust creates a delightful experience, making it a must-try for any occasion
- Baking this pie will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma of citrus
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the crust first while preheating the oven for optimal efficiency. Then whisk together the filling ingredients before pouring them into the cooled crust.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap traditional graham crackers for crushed cookies or add a hint of coconut for extra flavor. Personalize your pie to make it uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover key lime pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For the best taste, enjoy it cold without reheating.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect consistency, use fresh key limes; their zingy flavor is unbeatable
- Be careful not to overbake the pie; it should be set but slightly jiggly in the center
- Letting it chill overnight enhances its flavor and texture beautifully
Creating my first key lime pie felt like embarking on a culinary adventure—friends raved about its zesty goodness, and I learned just how satisfying homemade desserts can be.
FAQ
What are the main ingredients in key lime pie?
The main ingredients include key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and graham cracker crust.
Can I use regular limes instead?
Yes, regular limes work fine, but key limes provide that unique tart flavor we love.
How do I know when my key lime pie is done?
The pie should be set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center when it’s done baking.
Key Lime Pie
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Indulge in the refreshing taste of key lime pie, where the zesty flavor of fresh key limes meets a creamy filling nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for summer gatherings or simply to brighten your day. With its vibrant green hue and irresistible aroma, this pie is sure to impress family and friends alike!
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 14 oz (1 can) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until combined. Press into a 9-inch pie dish and bake for 8-10 minutes until golden.
- In another bowl, whisk together key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, and egg yolks until smooth.
- Pour the filling into the cooled crust. Bake for an additional 15 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Allow to cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least two hours. Serve chilled with whipped cream if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
