If you’ve ever found yourself craving a dessert that’s both refreshingly tangy and luxuriously smooth, then you absolutely need to try Morton’s Key Lime Pie Recipe. This classic American treat balances the perfect combination of tart key lime juice and creamy sweetened condensed milk, all nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust that holds everything together beautifully. It’s a dessert that feels light yet indulgent, brightening up any gathering or quiet night in with its vibrant flavors and velvety texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for Morton’s Key Lime Pie Recipe is surprisingly straightforward, yet each component plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect bite. From the crisp graham cracker crust to the silky filling, every ingredient adds its own magic—whether it’s the zing of fresh key lime juice or the richness that egg yolks bring to the table.
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs: The foundation for a crunchy, flavorful crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
- 5 Tbsp sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the crust’s flavor.
- ⅓ cup melted butter: Acts as the binding agent for the crust, ensuring it holds together perfectly.
- 15 large egg yolks: Essential for the creamy, custard-like texture of the filling.
- 2 (14-oz) cans sweetened condensed milk: Brings a luscious sweetness and silky consistency that the pie relies on.
- 1 cup key lime juice: The star of the show, offering bright, zesty notes that give the pie its signature tang.
- 6 Tbsp sugar: Added to the filling to enhance sweetness without overpowering the lime’s natural tartness.
How to Make Morton’s Key Lime Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by combining the graham cracker crumbs, 5 tablespoons of sugar, and melted butter until everything is well mixed. Press this mixture firmly against the sides and bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. This crust provides the perfect crunchy base that holds all the luscious pie filling, so make sure it’s evenly packed and set aside while you tackle the next step.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
Preheat your oven to 375°F to get it ready for baking. Using an electric mixer, blend together the 15 egg yolks, both cans of sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and 6 tablespoons of sugar for about 2 minutes until the mixture is silky and well combined. This step creates the smooth, velvety filling that is the hallmark of Morton’s Key Lime Pie Recipe.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pour the luscious lime filling into the prepared crust, then place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the center is just set—meaning it will have a slight jiggle but not be runny. This careful baking ensures the pie remains creamy without overcooking and becoming rubbery.
Step 4: Chill the Pie
Immediately after baking, transfer the pie to the refrigerator to chill for at least 3 hours or, ideally, overnight. This chilling step is crucial as it lets the flavors marry and the filling firm up to a sliceable consistency that’s smooth and cool every time.
How to Serve Morton’s Key Lime Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A dollop of sweetened whipped cream or cool whip on top complements the tangy filling beautifully, adding a creamy softness that balances the citrus punch. For extra flair, sprinkle some finely grated lime zest or scatter a few thin lime slices on top—this not only boosts flavor but adds a fresh, vibrant look.
Side Dishes
Morton’s Key Lime Pie Recipe shines as a stand-alone dessert, but if you want to build a full citrus-inspired menu, consider light, fruity accompaniments like fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. A simple cup of freshly brewed coffee or a tropical cocktail also pairs wonderfully, perfect for rounding out a summer meal or celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, serve individual portions in mini pie tins or clear dessert cups layered with whipped cream and crushed graham crackers. You can also drizzle a little fresh passion fruit syrup or berry coulis over the top to add color and an unexpected twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying Morton’s Key Lime Pie Recipe, you can store any leftovers in the refrigerator, tightly covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. The pie keeps its fresh flavor and creamy texture for up to 3 days, though it’s best enjoyed sooner rather than later for maximum brightness.
Freezing
While this pie is best fresh, you can freeze it if needed. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When frozen, Morton’s Key Lime Pie Recipe will keep for up to one month. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve the dreamy texture.
Reheating
This pie is usually served chilled, so reheating is not typically recommended. If you prefer it slightly less cold, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes before serving. This will soften it just enough without compromising flavor or texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular lime juice instead of key lime juice?
While regular lime juice can be a substitute in a pinch, key lime juice has a unique tartness and aromatic quality that truly defines Morton’s Key Lime Pie Recipe. Using fresh key lime juice will give you the authentic flavor that makes this pie special.
Do I need a springform pan to make this pie?
A springform pan is ideal because it allows for easy removal without damaging the pie’s delicate edges, but if you don’t have one, a regular 9-inch pie dish can work. Just be careful when slicing and serving to keep the pie intact.
Can I make the crust from scratch using whole graham crackers?
Absolutely! Crushing whole graham crackers into crumbs is simple—just place them in a plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin or pulse in a food processor. Freshly crushed crumbs make the crust even more flavorful and textured.
Is it necessary to chill the pie overnight?
Chilling the pie for at least 3 hours is important to let it set properly, but allowing it to chill overnight really improves the texture and deepens the flavors, making your Morton’s Key Lime Pie Recipe taste even better.
Can I prepare the pie gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or even crushed gluten-free cookies. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so the pie remains just as delicious.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dessert that feels like a refreshing burst of sunshine in every bite, you owe it to yourself to make Morton’s Key Lime Pie Recipe. It’s a vibrant, easy-to-make favorite that never fails to impress family and friends with its perfect balance of creamy richness and zesty brightness. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever celebrated without it!
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Morton’s Key Lime Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Morton’s Key Lime Pie is a classic, tangy dessert featuring a creamy key lime filling nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust. Baked to perfection and chilled for a refreshing finish, this pie is a perfect balance of sweet and tart, ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 5 Tbsp sugar
- ⅓ cup melted butter
Pie Filling
- 15 large egg yolks
- 2 (14-oz) cans sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup key lime juice
- 6 Tbsp sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 5 tablespoons of sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly against the sides and bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even crust. Set aside to maintain shape.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to fully preheat to ensure even baking.
- Mix the filling: Using an electric mixer, blend the egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and 6 tablespoons of sugar together for 2 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined.
- Fill the crust: Pour the prepared filling evenly into the reserved graham cracker crust, smoothing the top if needed.
- Bake the pie: Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is just set and slightly firm to the touch in the center.
- Chill the pie: Remove the pie from the oven and immediately refrigerate it for at least 3 hours or preferably overnight to allow the filling to fully set and flavors to meld.
- Serve: Slice and serve chilled, optionally garnished with sweetened whipped cream or cool whip for added creaminess and sweetness to complement the tart lime flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh key lime juice for the most authentic and flavorful pie.
- Chilling overnight enhances the texture and taste of the pie.
- A springform pan is recommended to easily remove the pie without damaging the crust.
- For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat sweetened condensed milk.
- Keep refrigerated and consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
