Key lime pie is a refreshing, tangy, and creamy dessert that tastes like a tropical vacation in every bite. This classic Southern dessert features a silky smooth filling made with real key lime juice, a buttery graham cracker crust, and a cloud of whipped cream on top. It’s surprisingly easy to make and always impresses!
Easy Key Lime Pie Recipe
Table of Contents
Start with a graham cracker crust — combine crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and a little sugar, then press firmly into a pie dish and bake for 10 minutes. For the filling, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and fresh key lime juice (about 1/2 cup). Pour into the cooled crust and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes until just set. Chill for at least 4 hours before serving.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tbsp melted butter
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 3 egg yolks
- ½ cup fresh key lime juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Make the crust
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
- Press firmly into a pie dish.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
- Make the filling
- Whisk together sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and key lime juice until smooth.
- Bake the pie
- Pour filling into the cooled crust.
- Bake for 15 minutes, until just set.
- Chill
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Tips
- Top with whipped cream for extra sweetness
- Fresh lime juice gives the best flavor
- Let it fully chill for clean slices
Tips for the Best Key Lime Pie
Fresh key lime juice makes a noticeable difference, but bottled key lime juice works in a pinch. Regular limes can substitute if you can’t find key limes — just use a little less since they’re more tart. Don’t overbake the filling; it should still have a slight jiggle in the center when you take it out. The pie firms up as it chills. Always serve it cold with fresh whipped cream, not whipped topping.
Key Lime Pie Variations
Love the classic but want to try something new? Make key lime pie bars for easy serving at parties. Try a coconut graham cracker crust for tropical flair. Key lime pie in individual mason jars makes adorable single-serve desserts. You can even freeze the pie for a refreshing frozen treat in summer. Add a sprinkle of lime zest on top for a beautiful, vibrant garnish.
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Love dessert recipes? Check out our posts on Blackberry Cobbler, Lemon Desserts, and Easy Cookie Recipes!
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