If you’ve been searching for a dessert that strikes the perfect balance between tangy citrus and creamy indulgence, this Key Lime Pie will be your new favorite. With its bright, refreshing flavor and buttery graham cracker crust, it’s a true classic that shines at summer barbecues, holiday feasts, or any time you want a crowd-pleasing treat.
Why You’ll Love This Key Lime Pie
- Zesty & Creamy: Tart key lime juice meets silky-smooth custard filling.
- Quick & Easy: Comes together in under an hour with minimal effort.
- Customizable: Add whipped cream, lime zest, or even a drizzle of chocolate.
- Perfect for Sharing: A hit at family dinners, potlucks, and parties.
Ingredients
(Serves 8–10)
For the Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10–12 sheets)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup key lime juice (freshly squeezed or bottled)
Optional Toppings
- Whipped cream
- Fresh lime zest
- Thin lime slices for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or line with parchment paper.
2. Make the Crust
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
- Press firmly into the bottom and sides of the pie dish.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden, then let cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Filling
- Whisk egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Slowly add key lime juice, mixing until the filling thickens.
4. Assemble & Bake
- Pour filling into the cooled crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the filling is just set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Let cool at room temperature.
5. Chill
- Refrigerate for 4–6 hours, or overnight, until fully set.
6. Serve & Enjoy
- Slice and serve cold.
- Top with whipped cream, lime zest, or lime slices for a fresh, elegant finish.
Tips for Success
- Go Fresh: Fresh key lime juice delivers the best flavor, but bottled juice works too.
- Switch Up the Crust: Try vanilla wafers, Biscoff, or shortbread cookies for variety.
- Boost Flavor: Add a teaspoon of lime zest to the filling for extra zing.
- Storage: Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze slices for longer storage.
Why This Recipe Works
This Key Lime Pie is all about balance—a tangy custard filling that’s creamy yet light, nestled in a crunchy, buttery crust. It’s simple to make, endlessly customizable, and consistently delicious. Whether topped with whipped cream or enjoyed as-is, it delivers tropical flavor in every bite.
Conclusion: A Dessert Everyone Will Love
Refreshing, creamy, and full of citrusy brightness, this Key Lime Pie is a dessert you’ll return to again and again. Perfect for warm summer nights or festive gatherings, it’s a timeless recipe that guarantees compliments at the table.
✨ Try it today, and don’t forget to share your twist—whether it’s a chocolate drizzle, coconut topping, or extra zest, your version might inspire someone else to bake it too!
