Go Back
–+ servings
Key Lime Pie

The Ultimate Key Lime Pie Recipe

Indulge in the best Key Lime Pie recipe with tips, tricks, and a step-by-step guide for a perfect, tangy dessert.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8

Equipment

  • Citrus Juicer
  • Pie Dish or Tart Pan

Ingredients
  

Crust

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 6 tbs butter - melted

Filling

  • 1 cup key lime juice (or lime juice) fresh squeezed is always best but you can use Nellie and Joe's in a pinch.
  • 2 14 oz cans sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1-2 tsp lime zest

Whipped Cream Topping

  • 1 cup whipping cream
  • 2 Tbs powdered sugar
  • lime slices or extra zest for garnish

Instructions
 

The Crust

  • Use a food processor to finely crush the graham crackers, or place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin.
  • In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
  • Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Use a flat-bottomed measuring cup to ensure an even, compact crust.
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly.

Making the Filling

  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk until smooth and well combined.
  • Gradually add the key lime juice and zest, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and thick.
  • Pour the filling into the prepared crust and spread it out evenly with a spatula.

Baking the Pie

  • Bake the pie at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
  • Allow the pie to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.

Cooling and Serving

  • In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
  • Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie. Garnish with lime slices or extra zest for a festive touch.
  • Slice and enjoy your delicious Key Lime Pie!

Notes

TIPS AND TRICKS

  • Use Fresh Key Limes: If possible, use fresh key limes for the most authentic flavor. They are smaller and more aromatic than regular limes.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your egg yolks and condensed milk are at room temperature to help the filling blend smoothly.
  • Don’t Overbake: The filling should still have a slight jiggle when you remove the pie from the oven. It will firm up as it cools.
  • Make Ahead: This pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Add the whipped cream just before serving.
Keyword dessert, key lime, key lime pie, lime, lime pie, pie
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!