Introduction
Welcome to the sunny shores of Florida, where the tangy sweetness of Key Lime Pie reigns supreme! This iconic dessert is a staple of Southern cuisine, known for its irresistible combination of tart lime flavor, creamy filling, and buttery graham cracker crust. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a taste of the tropics, Key Lime Pie is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves the refreshing taste of citrus and the indulgent creaminess of pie. Whether you’re a seasoned baker looking to add a new recipe to your repertoire or a novice in the kitchen eager to try your hand at homemade desserts, Key Lime Pie is a delicious and easy-to-make treat that’s sure to impress. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for anyone with dietary restrictions, as it can easily be made gluten-free or dairy-free.
Why It’s Great
What makes Key Lime Pie so great is its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The smooth, tangy filling is made with freshly squeezed Key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolks, creating a creamy custard-like consistency that melts in your mouth. Paired with a crunchy graham cracker crust and a dollop of whipped cream, it’s a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent, making it the perfect ending to any meal.
Recipe Details
Ingredients:
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed Key lime juice (about 20 Key limes)
- 1 tablespoon Key lime zest
For the Whipped Cream Topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Additional lime zest, for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared pie dish to form the crust.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, Key lime juice, and Key lime zest until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the filling into the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Return the pie to the oven and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden around the edges.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
- While the pie is cooling, prepare the whipped cream topping. In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream over the cooled pie and garnish with additional lime zest, if desired.
- Chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this delicious Key Lime Pie, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:
- 9-inch pie dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
How to Store Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (though we doubt you will!), store the Key Lime Pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. The crust may soften slightly over time, but the flavors will still be delicious.
Serving Suggestions
Key Lime Pie is delicious on its own, but you can take it to the next level by serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of raspberry sauce for an extra burst of flavor. Pair it with a glass of iced tea or a refreshing mojito for a tropical-inspired dessert experience.
FAQ
Q: Can I use regular limes instead of Key limes? A: While Key limes are traditional for this recipe and have a slightly different flavor profile than regular limes, you can substitute regular lime juice if Key limes are not available in your area.
Q: Can I make the pie ahead of time? A: Yes! Key Lime Pie actually tastes best when made a day in advance and allowed to chill in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the filling to set properly.
Q: Can I make this pie gluten-free? A: Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free graham crackers to make the crust, and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Key Lime Pie is a quintessential dessert that captures the essence of sunny days and tropical escapes. With its tangy lime flavor, creamy filling, and buttery graham cracker crust, it’s a dessert that’s sure to transport you to the shores of Key West with each bite. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a slice of paradise in the comfort of your own home. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and be sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious culinary inspiration!