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Easy Key Lime Pie Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 86 reviews

This Easy Key Lime Pie recipe combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a tangy, creamy key lime filling for a refreshing and delightful dessert. Perfectly baked to achieve a smooth texture with a zesty lime flavor, this pie is an irresistible treat that’s simple to prepare and sure to impress guests.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust

  • 1/3 cup butter (melted)
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs

For the Filling

  • 4 egg yolks
  • 6 key limes (for zesting and juicing)
  • 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
  • Nellie & Joe’s Famous Key West Lime Juice (if needed to make 1/2 cup)

Optional Garnish

  • Whipped topping
  • Lime slices
  • Additional lime zest

Instructions

  1. Make the crust: Combine melted butter and sugar in a medium bowl, stirring well. Add the graham cracker crumbs and mix until all crumbs are evenly coated.
  2. Press the crust: Spread the crumb mixture evenly into a 9-inch pie plate. Press the crumbs firmly onto the bottom and sides using the bottom of a measuring cup to form an even crust layer. Chill in the refrigerator for one hour until firm, or alternatively bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes and let cool before filling.
  3. Prep the lime juice and zest: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Zest the key limes until you have 2 teaspoons of zest. Juice the limes and measure the juice; if less than 1/2 cup, add bottled key lime juice to reach the 1/2 cup amount.
  4. Whisk egg yolks: Using a stand or electric mixer, whisk the egg yolks until they are thick and light yellow in color.
  5. Add sweetened condensed milk: Slowly add the sweetened condensed milk while continuing to mix on a low speed to combine thoroughly without overwhipping.
  6. Add lime juice and zest: Gradually add the key lime juice and zest. Mix on low speed just until blended; avoid overmixing.
  7. Bake the pie: Pour the filling into the prepared crust and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
  8. Cool and chill: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate until fully chilled and firm, at least a few hours.
  9. Serve with garnish: Before serving, optionally garnish with whipped topping, lime slices, and a sprinkle of lime zest for extra flavor and presentation.

Notes

  • For a firmer crust quickly, baking for 5 minutes at 375°F is an efficient method.
  • Using fresh key limes delivers the best authentic flavor, but bottled key lime juice can be substituted if necessary.
  • Chilling the pie thoroughly before serving enhances the texture and brings out the flavors.
  • Be careful not to overmix the filling to maintain a creamy texture.
  • This pie can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: key lime pie, easy dessert, graham cracker crust, key lime, sweetened condensed milk, pie recipe, summer dessert

Find it online: https://tastygenius.com/easy-key-lime-pie-recipe/