What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade key lime pie is a dream come true for anyone who loves a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. It’s easy to make, with a creamy filling and a buttery crust that melts in your mouth.
- No-bake simplicity—just mix, pour, and chill for a dessert that’s fuss-free and delicious.
- Bright, zesty flavor—fresh lime juice gives it that signature tang you can’t resist.
- Crowd-pleasing texture—silky smooth filling paired with a crunchy graham cracker crust.
Recipe
ORIGINAL TEXT:
Indulge in the refreshingly tart and creamy delight of homemade key lime pie, a classic dessert that balances sweetness and tanginess perfectly. This recipe is simple yet yields a dessert that will impress any crowd. Follow these steps to create your own slice of citrusy heaven.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup freshly squeezed key lime juice (about 12-15 key limes)
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest
- Whipped cream or meringue for topping (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let cool.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Gradually add the key lime juice and zest, stirring until fully incorporated.
- Pour the filling into the cooled crust and smooth the top. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Optionally, top with whipped cream or meringue before serving.
Notes:
- Regular lime juice can be substituted if key limes are unavailable, though the flavor will differ slightly.
- Guarantee the pie is fully chilled before slicing for clean cuts.
Equipment:
- 9-inch pie dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
Time:
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Serves 8-10
Nutrition
Key Lime Pie is a delicious dessert that can be enjoyed in moderation. Below is the nutritional information per serving.
| Calories | Fat (g) | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) | Sugar (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 320 | 15 | 42 | 4 | 30 |
What To Serve With It
A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the tangy key lime pie, and I love how it melts just slightly when served warm. A citrus fruit garnish, like thin lime slices or zest, not only looks pretty but gives an extra burst of flavor that complements the pie perfectly. You could even try pairing it with berries for a sweet-tart twist that’ll make every bite even more delicious.
Fresh Whipped Cream
Though it’s not a must, I love pairing fresh whipped cream with my key lime pie because it adds a creamy, dreamy contrast to the tangy filling. I make it by whipping heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar and vanilla until it’s light and fluffy—just soft peaks, not stiff. It’s simple, but it makes the pie feel extra special. I usually dollop it generously on top right before serving, letting it melt slightly into each slice. It’s like a little cloud of happiness that balances the zesty lime perfectly, and honestly, who can resist it?
Citrus Fruit Garnish
When I’m serving key lime pie, I love adding a citrus fruit garnish because it’s not only pretty but also boosts the flavor. Thin slices of lime or lemon add a fresh zing that complements the tangy filling. I sometimes layer twists of lime zest for a pop of color and extra citrus aroma. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll arrange a mix of orange and grapefruit segments for a sweet yet tangy bite. These garnishes make the pie feel extra special, and they’re so simple to prepare. Plus, they’re a great way to impress your guests without much effort!
