Classic Key Lime Pie
This Classic Key Lime Pie perfectly balances tartness and sweetness with its creamy texture and refreshing flavor, making it a delightful dessert.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1.5 cups 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 0.5 cups ½ cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cups ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 4 large 4 large egg yolks
- 14 oz 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 0.5 cups ½ cup freshly squeezed key lime juice Regular lime juice can be used if key limes are unavailable.
- 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon key lime zest
Topping
- 1 cup 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- to taste Key lime wedges and zest for garnish Optional.
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar.
- Pour in the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish, creating an even layer.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
Make the Filling
- While the crust is cooling, whisk the egg yolks in a large bowl until thick and pale.
- Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk while continuing to whisk until fully combined.
- Stir in the key lime juice and zest until the mixture is silky smooth and well combined.
Bake the Pie
- Pour the filling into the cooled crust, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Bake the pie for 10-15 minutes, just until set. The center may still jiggle slightly as it will continue to firm up while cooling.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about an hour.
Chill the Pie
- Once the pie is cooled, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight for the best texture and flavor.
Prepare the Topping
- Just before serving, whip the heavy cream in a mixing bowl until soft peaks form.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
Serve
- Spread or pipe the whipped cream on top of the chilled pie.
- Garnish with key lime wedges and additional lime zest if desired.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy the zesty goodness of your homemade Key Lime Pie!
Notes
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Allow adequate chilling time for flavor melding. Stabilize whipped cream with gelatin if desired.