Few desserts capture the spirit of summer quite like a slice of Key lime pie. With its vibrant citrus flavor and silky smooth filling, it’s a dessert that feels both refreshing and indulgent at the same time. Originating from the Florida Keys, this pie has earned its place as a classic American treat – and for good reason.
The star of the show is, of course, the Key lime itself. Smaller and more aromatic than regular limes, Key limes add a unique tartness and floral quality that sets this pie apart from other citrus-based desserts. Paired with sweetened condensed milk, the lime juice creates a creamy, custard-like filling with just the right amount of zing. The texture is velvety and rich, but never heavy, making it a perfect finish to a warm-weather meal.
One of the things people love most about Key lime pie is how balanced it is. The tart filling contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the graham cracker crust. Add a touch of whipped cream on top, and you’ve got a harmony of flavors and textures – crunchy, creamy, sweet, and sour all in one bite.
It’s also incredibly simple to make. There are no complicated steps, no fancy techniques, and no special equipment required. That’s part of its charm. It feels homemade in the best way – something your grandmother might have whipped up for a weekend gathering or summer picnic.
Key lime pie is more than just a dessert, though. It brings a little bit of tropical escape to your kitchen, no matter where you live. One bite can transport you straight to a breezy beachside café, with the sound of waves in the distance and a glass of iced tea in hand.
Whether you’re hosting a summer dinner party, looking for a potluck favorite, or just craving a little citrusy comfort, Key lime pie delivers every time. Bright, simple, and timeless, it’s a dessert that never goes out of style.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- 4 egg yolks large,
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk 14 ounces
- 1/2 cup key lime juice fresh
- 2 tbsp key lime zest grated
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- lime thinly sliced, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch (23 cm) pie dish.
- Bake the crust for 12 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and key lime zest until well combined.
- Pour the key lime mixture into the cooled pie crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Place the pie in the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream and confectioners' sugar until soft peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream over the chilled pie.
- Garnish with thinly sliced lime before serving.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Nutrition
I found it a bit too sweet for my taste. The crust was nice, but it kinda drowned in the condensed milk flavor. Not my favorite dessert.
Too sweet? Nah, I love it that way! The sweetness is what makes it a dessert, right?
I totally get what you’re saying! I think it depends on personal taste. Maybe try less condensed milk next time?
Made this for a potluck and it got demolished! I did replace key limes with regular limes because I couldn’t find them. Still turned out great!
Meh. I expected more from key lime pie. Wasn’t even that limey, kinda bland actually. Maybe I did something wrong.
This is a super easy recipe! I had everything at home already. Just a heads up, my kids loved it but the husband said it was ‘too limey’. LOL.
I tried this recipe too and my husband thought it was too sour! Maybe use less lime next time? 🤔
This pie was absolutely fantastic! All my guests loved it, and I can’t wait to make it again. Perfect balance of tart and sweet.