Key Lime Pie

Key Lime Pie

Introduction

Key Lime Pie is a classic dessert that hails from the sunny Florida Keys. It’s known for its bright, tangy flavor, creamy texture, and a delightful graham cracker crust. This pie is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer gathering, a holiday celebration, or just a sweet treat at home. If you love citrusy desserts, this pie is sure to become a favorite!

Why Make This Recipe

Making Key Lime Pie at home is easier than you might think. This recipe uses simple ingredients that are easy to find. Plus, making it yourself allows you to control the flavor and sweetness to match your taste. The result is a deliciously refreshing pie that impresses family and friends. It’s a great way to bring a taste of the tropics to your kitchen!

How to Make Key Lime Pie

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a pie pan to form the crust.
3. Bake the crust for about 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest until smooth.
5. Pour the filling into the baked crust and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
6. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours.
7. In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
8. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie before serving.

How to Serve Key Lime Pie

Serve Key Lime Pie chilled, topped with a generous layer of whipped cream. You can slice it into wedges and plate it with a garnish of lime slices or zest for an extra touch. It’s perfect as a dessert after a hearty meal or as a refreshing treat on a warm day.

How to Store Key Lime Pie

To store Key Lime Pie, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It can last for about 3-4 days, but the crust may become a bit softer over time. Avoid freezing the pie as that may change the texture and taste.

Tips to Make Key Lime Pie

• Use fresh key limes for the best flavor, but regular limes work too if key limes are unavailable.
• Make sure to let the pie cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating, as this helps it set properly.
• If you prefer a sweeter pie, feel free to adjust the amount of sugar in the filling.

Variation

You can make a coconut version of Key Lime Pie by adding shredded coconut to the crust or mixing it into the filling. This adds a tropical twist to the classic recipe!

FAQs

Q: Can I use bottled key lime juice instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use bottled key lime juice if fresh key limes are difficult to find. Just make sure it’s 100% juice without added sugar for the best results.

Q: How can I tell when the pie is done baking?
A: The pie is done when the filling is set but still has a slight jiggle in the center. It will firm up more as it cools.

Q: Is it necessary to use heavy cream for the topping?
A: While heavy cream gives the best whip and texture, you can substitute with whipped topping or a lighter cream if preferred. Just keep in mind, the flavor and texture will differ.