Key Lime Pie is a classic, creamy, tangy dessert from the Florida Keys — famous for its refreshing lime flavor and smooth texture. 🍋🥧
Here’s everything you need to know — plus a perfect, traditional recipe 👇
🥧 Classic Key Lime Pie Recipe
Ingredients
Crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Filling:
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup Key lime juice (fresh is best — about 20–25 Key limes, or use bottled Key lime juice like Nellie & Joe’s)
- 1 tbsp lime zest (optional but adds brightness)
Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make the crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
- Press mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie dish (bottom and sides).
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let cool slightly.
- Prepare the filling:
- Whisk egg yolks for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add sweetened condensed milk and mix until smooth.
- Stir in lime juice and zest — the filling will thicken slightly as it reacts with the lime juice.
- Bake:
- Pour filling into the crust.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, just until the center is set but still a little jiggly.
- Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or overnight).
- Top it off:
- Whip the cream, sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Spread or pipe on top of the chilled pie before serving.
Tips for the Best Key Lime Pie
- Key limes are smaller and more aromatic than Persian limes — they give that signature tang.
- Don’t overbake; the filling should be silky, not rubbery.
- For extra flair, garnish with lime slices or zest curls.
Would you like me to give you a no-bake or mini key lime pie version next?
