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Key Lime Pie

This classic Key Lime Pie is tangy, creamy, and refreshingly sweet, made with a buttery graham cracker crust and a luscious lime filling. Topped with a cloud of whipped cream, it’s the perfect balance of tart and sweet, making it an irresistible dessert for warm days or any day you need a taste of the tropics.
Print Recipe
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:25 minutes
Total Time:3 hours 40 minutes

Equipment

  • 9-inch pie dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or hand whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • Zester (optional, if using fresh limes)

Ingredients

  • For the Crust:
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs about 10–12 crackers
  • cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter melted
  • For the Filling:
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1 can 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
  • ½ cup key lime juice fresh if possible, about 20–25 key limes, or bottled key lime juice
  • 1 tbsp key lime zest optional, for extra flavor
  • For the Topping:
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 3 tbsp powdered sugar
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Preheat Oven: Set to 350°F (175°C).
  • Make the Crust:
  • In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
  • Press mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
  • Bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and let cool slightly.
  • Prepare the Filling:
  • In a mixing bowl, beat egg yolks with an electric mixer for 2 minutes until thickened.
  • Add sweetened condensed milk and beat for 2 more minutes.
  • Stir in key lime juice and zest until fully combined.
  • Bake the Pie:
  • Pour filling into the crust and smooth the top.
  • Bake for 15 minutes, or until the center is just set (it will jiggle slightly).
  • Cool and Chill:
  • Let pie cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
  • Make the Whipped Cream:
  • In a chilled mixing bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
  • Assemble & Serve:
  • Spread or pipe whipped cream over the chilled pie.
  • Garnish with extra lime zest or slices if desired. Slice and enjoy!
Servings: 8 slices