Dive into a slice of tropical paradise with this delightful key lime pie recipe! Imagine a buttery, golden graham cracker crust cradling a velvety, tangy filling bursting with the zesty punch of fresh key limes. Each bite is a perfect balance of sweet and tart, whisking you away to sun-soaked shores with the fresh, citrusy zing of the limes dancing on your taste buds. Topped with a cloud of fluffy, vanilla-kissed whipped cream, this pie is not just a dessert; it’s a sunny getaway on a plate. Perfect for any occasion, it’s the ultimate treat to bring a taste of the tropics to your table!
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup fresh key lime juice (about 20-25 key limes or 4-5 regular limes)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
Topping
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
Crust
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan.
4. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool.
Filling
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk until well combined.
2. Add the key lime juice and lime zest and whisk until smooth.
3. Pour the filling into the cooled crust.
4. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least three hours or until fully chilled.
Topping
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. Spread the whipped cream over the chilled pie.
3. Garnish with extra lime zest or lime slices, if desired.
For a more authentic flavor, try to use fresh key limes. However, if they are not available, regular limes can be substituted. Make sure the pie is well-chilled before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set properly.
Enjoy your homemade key lime pie!
