The tantalizing aroma of key lime pie wafts through the air, inviting you to take a bite of that zesty, creamy goodness. With its bright green filling and buttery graham cracker crust, this dessert is like sunshine on a plate.
Just imagine sinking your fork into that luscious filling, feeling the cool textures dance on your tongue while the sweet-tart flavor explodes in your mouth. Perfect for summer gatherings or just a cozy night in, key lime pie brings a little taste of tropical paradise to any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful key lime pie is incredibly easy to prepare and requires no baking
- The balance of tartness and sweetness makes it irresistible
- Its vibrant colors make it an eye-catching centerpiece for any gathering
- Ideal for warm weather but delicious enough to enjoy year-round!
I remember the first time I made this key lime pie; my friends practically fought over the last slice.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Key Limes: These tiny limes pack a punch; look for ones that feel heavy for their size for maximum juiciness.
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Sweetened Condensed Milk: This magical ingredient adds sweetness and creaminess; don’t skip it or you’ll end up with a sad pie.
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Sour Cream: It balances the tartness of the key limes perfectly; choose full-fat for that rich texture.
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Graham Cracker Crumbs: The foundation of our crust; crush them finely for a smooth base that holds together.
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Butter: Unsalted butter ensures the flavor shines through without overpowering; melt it gently before mixing with crumbs.
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Granulated Sugar: A touch of sweetness in the crust helps balance the tart filling; don’t go overboard!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into a pie dish to form an even crust.
Bake the Crust: Place the crust in your preheated oven and bake for about 8 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool on a wire rack while you prepare the filling.
Create the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and sour cream. Whisk together until smooth and well blended, ensuring no lumps remain.
Fill the Pie Crust: Pour the filling into your cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Admire that vibrant green color as you do!
Bake Again!: Return your pie to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This step helps set your filling beautifully.
Chill Before Serving: Remove from oven and allow to cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 3 hours. This chilling time lets those flavors meld together perfectly!
You’ve made it! Slice up that gorgeous key lime pie and serve chilled with whipped cream if desired. Enjoy every tangy bite while basking in your culinary glory!
You Must Know
- Key lime pie is a zesty dessert that balances tartness and sweetness perfectly
- Its creamy texture paired with a buttery crust makes it irresistible
- Remember, fresh key limes offer the best flavor, so don’t skimp on quality!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by pre-baking the crust until golden brown, then mix the filling while it cools for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavor or top it with whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover pie in the refrigerator for up to three days. Enjoy chilled; no reheating needed!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh key limes for the best flavor; bottled juice can’t compete with their freshness
- Make sure your egg yolks are at room temperature for a smoother pie
- Let the pie chill overnight to enhance its flavors and set properly
Sharing my first key lime pie experience brings back fond memories of friends raving about its zingy flavor at my family barbecue.
FAQ
What is key lime pie made of?
Key lime pie consists of key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolks.
Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
Yes, but regular limes will produce a slightly different flavor profile.
How do I know when my pie is set?
The filling should be firm yet slightly jiggly in the center when properly set.
Key Lime Pie
Indulge in the refreshing goodness of key lime pie, a no-bake dessert that combines zesty key lime juice with a creamy filling nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust. This vibrant treat is perfect for summer gatherings or cozy nights in, offering a delightful balance of tartness and sweetness that’s sure to impress. With minimal effort, you can create a stunning centerpiece that brings sunshine to any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for crust)
- 1 cup key lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press firmly into a pie dish to form the crust.
- Bake the crust for 8 minutes until golden brown. Let cool.
- In another bowl, whisk together key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and sour cream until smooth.
- Pour the filling into the cooled crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to set the filling.
- Allow to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (120g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
