The tangy, sweet aroma of freshly baked Key Lime Pie wafts through the air like a tropical breeze, instantly transporting you to sun-soaked beaches. With its zesty lime filling and buttery graham cracker crust, it’s an irresistible dessert that dances on your taste buds and leaves you craving more. grilled pineapple dessert pairing Picture a slice topped with whipped cream, glistening in the sunlight while laughter and joy fill the room – this is what dessert dreams are made of.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Key Lime Pie
- How to Make Key Lime Pie
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs:
- What is Key Lime Pie?
- How do I make Key Lime Pie from scratch?
- Can I use regular limes instead of key limes for Key Lime Pie?
- How long does Key Lime Pie last in the fridge?
- Conclusion for Key Lime Pie:
- 📖 Recipe Card
As I recall my grandmother whipping up her famous Key Lime Pie during family gatherings, I can’t help but smile. She would always say, “If life gives you limes, make a pie!” And oh, how we loved those moments! Whether it’s a summer barbecue or holiday celebration, this pie steals the spotlight every time. Get ready for an explosion of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds! For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Key Lime Pie is not just delicious; it’s also super easy to whip up in under an hour.
- The bright citrus flavor paired with creamy filling creates a delightful balance that’s hard to resist.
- Its vibrant color makes it a showstopper on any dessert table.
- Best of all, it’s perfect for any occasion from casual get-togethers to fancy dinner parties.
Ingredients for Key Lime Pie
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Key Limes: The star ingredient! Choose fresh key limes for that signature tartness or use regular limes if they’re unavailable.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This adds creaminess and balances the tartness of the limes perfectly.
- Sour Cream: Enhances the pie’s richness and adds depth to the flavor profile.
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: Use crushed graham crackers to create a crumbly and buttery crust that complements the filling.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter helps bind the graham cracker crumbs together for a delicious crust.
- Granulated Sugar: A touch of sugar sweetens the crust just right without overpowering the flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Key Lime Pie
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grab your mixing bowls and prepare for some serious pie magic.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Pour in melted butter and mix until well combined. Press this mixture into a pie dish evenly across the bottom and up the sides. Bake for about 8-10 minutes until lightly golden.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In another bowl, whisk together freshly squeezed key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and sour cream until smooth. This mixture should look like sunshine in a bowl.
Step 4: Combine and Pour
Once your crust has cooled slightly, pour that luscious filling into the baked crust. Spread it evenly with a spatula because we want every slice to be perfect!
Step 5: Bake Again
Return your pie to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes. You want it just set but still creamy inside – think custard perfection!
Step 6: Chill Out
Let your pie cool at room temperature before refrigerating it for at least three hours or overnight if you’re patient enough (I rarely am). This chilling step allows those flavors to meld beautifully.
To serve, slice your incredible Key Lime Pie into wedges and top with whipped cream if you desire – because who doesn’t love extra indulgence? Enjoy every tangy bite!
You Must Know
- This delightful Key Lime Pie recipe offers a burst of citrus flavor and a creamy texture that is hard to resist.
- It’s perfect for summer gatherings or whenever you need a sweet escape.
- The bright colors and tangy taste will impress your guests every time.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, prepare the crust by mixing graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar. Press this mixture into a pie dish, bake for about 10 minutes, then let it cool while preparing the filling.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the graham cracker crust for a coconut crust if you’re feeling adventurous. For added zing, mix in some lime zest into the filling or top with fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries for a pop of color.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover Key Lime Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it chilled, serve it straight from the fridge; it’s best enjoyed cold and refreshing.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly creamy filling, make sure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing them in.
- Avoid overbaking to keep that luscious texture intact.
- Lastly, let your pie chill in the fridge for at least four hours before serving for optimal flavor.
Sometimes I think my Key Lime Pie should have its own fan club! Friends rave about it, and I still remember my sister’s face when she took her first bite—pure bliss!
FAQs:
What is Key Lime Pie?
Key Lime Pie is a classic American dessert that hails from the Florida Keys. It features a tart and creamy filling made from key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolks. The filling sits atop a buttery graham cracker crust, which adds a delightful crunch. banana pudding fluff salad alternative sweet chili sauce for flavor enhancement Often topped with fluffy whipped cream or meringue, this iconic pie balances sweet and tangy flavors beautifully.
How do I make Key Lime Pie from scratch?
To make Key Lime Pie from scratch, start by preparing the crust using crushed graham crackers mixed with melted butter and sugar. Press this mixture into a pie pan and bake until golden. For the filling, blend key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolks until smooth. Pour it into the crust and bake until set. Once cooled, chill in the refrigerator before serving for the best flavor.
Can I use regular limes instead of key limes for Key Lime Pie?
While you can substitute regular limes in a pinch, using key limes gives the pie its distinctive flavor. Key limes are smaller and have a more intense tartness compared to regular Persian limes. If key limes are unavailable, adjust the sweetness in your recipe slightly to balance the added tartness of regular limes.
How long does Key Lime Pie last in the fridge?
Key Lime Pie can last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days when stored properly. Ensure it is covered with plastic wrap or kept in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing individual slices. Thaw them in the refrigerator before enjoying for optimal taste and texture.
Conclusion for Key Lime Pie:
Key Lime Pie stands out as a delightful dessert that encapsulates the vibrant flavors of the tropics. This dish combines tangy key lime juice with creamy sweetness to create an unforgettable treat. By making your own pie from scratch, you can ensure freshness and flavor that store-bought options may lack. Remember to use high-quality ingredients for the best results. Enjoying this classic dessert will surely bring a slice of sunshine to your table! For more inspiration, check out this Pecan Pie Bars recipe.
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Key Lime Pie
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Key Lime Pie is a tropical delight that combines the zesty flavors of key limes with a creamy filling atop a buttery graham cracker crust. This refreshing dessert is perfect for summer barbecues, holiday celebrations, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests. Each slice offers a tantalizing balance of sweet and tangy that will leave everyone craving more. With easy preparation and the ability to serve chilled, this Key Lime Pie brings sunshine to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2/3 cup fresh key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into a pie dish and bake for 8-10 minutes until golden. Let it cool.
- In another bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and sour cream until smooth.
- Pour the filling into the cooled crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes until just set but creamy inside.
- Allow the pie to cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least three hours or overnight.
- Serve chilled, topped with whipped cream if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (107g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
