Key Lime Pie Recipe

Cynthia May

2 min read

·

26-01-2025

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The key lime pie. Just the name conjures up images of sun-drenched beaches and vibrant, tropical flavors. This isn't your average pie; it's a tart, tangy masterpiece that's surprisingly easy to make at home. Forget those store-bought versions – this recipe delivers the authentic, intensely flavorful experience you crave.

Ingredients: A Symphony of Sweet and Tart

This recipe yields one 9-inch key lime pie.

For the crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup key lime juice (about 8-10 key limes) – freshly squeezed is key!
• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: Whipped cream and lime zest for garnish

Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Pie Perfection

Making the crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until evenly moistened.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or your fingers to ensure an even layer.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool completely before adding the filling.

Making the filling:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, eggs, and salt until smooth and well-combined. Be sure to break up the eggs thoroughly.
2. Pour the filling into the cooled crust.
3. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is just set around the edges. The center may still appear slightly jiggly – this is normal.
4. Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack. This is crucial to prevent a runny filling. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to fully set.

Serving Suggestions:

Once chilled, garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of lime zest for an extra touch of elegance. Serve chilled and enjoy this delightful taste of the tropics!

Tips for Key Lime Pie Success:

• Fresh Key Limes: The flavor of your pie depends heavily on the quality of your limes. Freshly squeezed key lime juice offers a superior tartness compared to bottled juice.
• Don't Overbake: Overbaking can result in a tough crust and a curdled filling. The center should be slightly jiggly when you remove it from the oven.
• Chill Thoroughly: Patience is a virtue when it comes to key lime pie. Allow ample chilling time for the filling to set properly.

This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. So grab your limes and get baking! You won't regret it.