Key Lime Pie: A Zesty, Refreshing Dessert Recipe
Are you ready to transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise? This Key lime pie recipe is your ticket to a tangy, sweet, and utterly delightful dessert experience. This classic recipe is surprisingly easy to make, and the results are well worth the effort. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy Key lime pie recipe!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This Key lime pie recipe calls for simple, readily available ingredients. Make sure you have these on hand before you begin:
- For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup sugar
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
- For the Filling:
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- ¾ cup Key lime juice (about 8-10 limes) – Freshly squeezed is best!
- 4 large eggs
- ½ teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these easy steps for a perfectly creamy and zesty Key lime pie:
Making the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your crust bakes perfectly.
- Combine ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until evenly moistened.
- Press into the pan: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even crust.
- Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool completely before adding the filling.
Creating the Creamy Key Lime Filling:
- Whisk together ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, Key lime juice, eggs, and salt until smooth and well combined. Make sure there are no lumps!
- Pour into the crust: Carefully pour the filling into the cooled crust.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool completely: Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to fully set.
Tips for the Perfect Key Lime Pie:
- Use fresh Key limes: The flavor difference between fresh and bottled lime juice is significant. Fresh Key lime juice will give you the most authentic and vibrant flavor.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can result in a tough crust and a curdled filling. The center should be slightly jiggly when done.
- Chill thoroughly: Allowing the pie to chill completely is crucial for setting the filling and achieving the perfect creamy texture.
- Garnish creatively: Once chilled, garnish your Key lime pie with whipped cream, lime zest, or even candied lime slices for an extra touch of elegance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use regular limes? While you can substitute regular limes, the flavor will be less tart and less intensely flavorful than Key limes.
- How long can I store the pie? Store leftover Key lime pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This Key lime pie recipe is a delightful addition to any occasion, from summer barbecues to holiday gatherings. The bright, zesty flavor is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!
