Description
This classic Key Lime Pie features a buttery graham cracker crust and a tangy, creamy key lime filling made with sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and fresh or bottled key lime juice. Topped with fluffy whipped cream, it’s a refreshing American dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup key lime juice, fresh or bottled
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest
Topping
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish to form the crust. Bake the crust for 8 to 10 minutes until set and fragrant, then remove from oven and let it cool slightly.
- Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the sweetened condensed milk and egg yolks together until smooth and creamy. Stir in the key lime juice and zest, whisking until the mixture thickens and is well combined.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the lime filling into the warm graham cracker crust and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake the pie for 15 to 17 minutes, until the center is set but still has a slight jiggle when gently shaken.
- Cool and chill: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature on a wire rack. Once cooled, transfer the pie to the refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours to allow the filling to fully set and flavors to meld.
- Prepare the topping: Just before serving, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract using an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie.
- Serve: Slice into 8 servings and enjoy this tangy, creamy dessert that balances sweetness with refreshing citrus notes.
Notes
- Bottled key lime juice is a convenient substitute if fresh key limes are unavailable without sacrificing much flavor.
- For an extra burst of tang, add additional lime zest to the filling or garnish the pie with thin lime slices on top of the whipped cream.
- Chilling the pie for at least 3 hours is crucial for the filling to properly set and develop its characteristic texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
