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- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs - ½ cup unsalted butter, melted - 4 large egg yolks - 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk - ½ cup fresh key lime juice - 1 cup heavy cream The key ingredients make this dessert so special. The graham cracker crumbs give the pie a crunchy base. I always use unsalted butter to balance the flavors. The egg yolks create a rich filling. Sweetened condensed milk adds sweetness and creaminess. Fresh key lime juice brings that zesty kick. Heavy cream is perfect for the whipped topping, making it light and airy. - key lime slices - lime zest Garnishes can elevate your key lime pie. Key lime slices add a fresh look. Lime zest gives a pop of color and flavor. These extras make your pie more appealing and tasty. You can use them or skip them, but they really enhance the pie’s charm. For the full recipe, check the section above. - Start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. - Stir until the mix feels crumbly and sticks together. - Next, press this mixture into a 9-inch pie pan. Make sure it covers the bottom and sides. - Bake the crust in a preheated oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes. Look for a light golden color. - Once baked, take it out and let it cool completely. - In a clean bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk until you get a smooth mix. - Now, add the fresh key lime juice and lime zest. Whisk again until everything blends well. - Pour this lime filling into your cooled crust, spreading it evenly. - Bake the pie for 15 minutes. You want it to be set but still slightly jiggly in the center. - To check if it's done, look for a firm edge but a soft middle. - After baking, let the pie cool completely at room temperature. This step is key for the best taste. - Achieving the perfect crust: Use fresh graham cracker crumbs. Mix them with melted butter and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the pan. Bake until golden brown for the best texture. - Tips for a smooth filling: Always whisk the egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk well. This helps avoid lumps. Add the lime juice slowly while whisking. This ensures even mixing. - Pairing with beverages: Key lime pie pairs well with iced tea or sparkling water. A light white wine also complements the flavors. - Ideal serving temperature: Serve the pie cold. Chill it for at least two hours before serving. This enhances the refreshing taste. - Using fresh vs. bottled juice: Fresh key lime juice gives the best flavor. Bottled juice can work, but it may taste less vibrant. - Optional flavor additions: Try adding a bit of coconut or vanilla extract. These can add depth to the pie's taste. {{image_2}} You can give your key lime pie a unique twist. Try adding shredded coconut for a tropical taste. This extra layer of flavor makes each bite more exciting. You can also use different citrus juices. Grapefruit or orange juice can add a fresh zing. If you need a gluten-free option, use almond flour or gluten-free graham crackers. This works well and keeps the same great taste. You can even skip the crust entirely for a crustless key lime pie. Just pour the filling directly into a greased pie pan. Instead of whipped cream, use meringue on top. It adds a light and airy texture. You can also make a fruit compote to drizzle over the pie. Berries or tropical fruits make great choices and add beautiful color. For the Full Recipe, check the earlier section. Store your key lime pie in the fridge. Use a pie cover or plastic wrap to keep it fresh. This pie stays good for about 3 to 4 days. The taste remains bright and zesty, perfect for a sweet treat. You can also freeze key lime pie for later. First, wrap it well in plastic wrap. Then place it in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When you want to eat it, take it out and thaw it in the fridge overnight. This keeps the pie’s taste and texture. If you prefer it warm, reheat gently in the oven. Set it to a low temperature, about 300°F (150°C). Warm it for 10-15 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the crust soggy. Enjoy your pie fresh and delightful! What is the difference between key lime pie and regular lime pie? Key lime pie uses key limes, which are smaller and more tart than regular limes. This gives the pie a unique taste. Regular lime pie uses Persian limes, which are larger and less tart. The key lime flavor shines through, making it special. Can I use regular limes instead of key limes? Yes, you can use regular limes if key limes are hard to find. It will taste different but still delicious. The pie may be a bit sweeter with regular limes, so adjust the sugar if needed. How do I know when my key lime pie is done baking? Your pie is done when the edges look set, but the center remains slightly jiggly. It should not be too firm. Remove it from the oven and let it cool completely for the best texture. What to do if the filling cracks? If your filling cracks, don't worry! The pie will still taste amazing. You can cover it with whipped cream or a fruit topping to hide the cracks. How to fix a runny filling? A runny filling usually means it needs more time to bake. If you find it too runny, put it back in the oven for a few more minutes. If you baked it already, chill it in the fridge to help it set. What to serve with key lime pie? Key lime pie pairs well with fresh fruit, like berries. You can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a tasty contrast. Can I prepare it in advance? Yes, you can make key lime pie a day ahead. Just cover it and keep it in the fridge. This helps the flavors blend and makes for a refreshing treat when ready to serve. For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps above! Key lime pie combines simple ingredients like graham crackers and fresh lime juice. You can easily create a delicious dessert with straightforward steps. Each tip enhances flavor and texture, making your pie shine. Remember, variations and storage tips help you customize and preserve your creation. Enjoy serving this refreshing treat at gatherings or as a sweet finish to any meal. Try these techniques and share your tasty results with friends. Your key lime pie journey offers endless fun and flavor. Happy baking!

Classic Key Lime Pie

Indulge in the refreshing taste of this Zesty Key Lime Pie that’s perfect for any occasion! With a crumbly graham cracker crust and a velvety lime filling, this dessert is both easy to make and hard to resist. Follow our simple recipe to whip up a delightful treat topped with whipped cream and garnished with lime slices. Click through to explore the full recipe and impress your family and friends with this citrusy delight!
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Ingredients
  

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

½ cup granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

4 large egg yolks

1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk

½ cup fresh key lime juice (or regular lime juice)

Zest of 2 limes

1 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons powdered sugar

Key lime slices and lime zest for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

    In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until crumbly and well combined.

      Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan to form the crust. Bake in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool.

        In another mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.

          Add the fresh key lime juice and lime zest to the egg mixture, and whisk until fully blended.

            Pour the lime mixture into the cooled crust and return to the oven. Bake for 15 minutes until set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Remove from the oven and cool completely.

              While the pie cools, whip the heavy cream in a mixing bowl until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar, and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.

                Once the pie is completely cooled, spread the whipped cream evenly over the top.

                  Garnish with key lime slices and additional lime zest for a pop of color and flavor.

                    Chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to enhance the flavors.

                      Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes | Servings: 8