The Perfect Key Lime Pie Recipe: A Slice of Sunshine

There’s something magical about Key lime pie—the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, with a buttery crust that melts in your mouth. Whether you’ve had it in the Florida Keys or just dream of tasting that refreshing citrus flavor, making it at home is easier than you think!

Today, I’m sharing my go-to Key lime pie recipe. It’s creamy, zesty, and has that classic velvety texture we all love. Plus, you don’t need fancy ingredients—just a little patience and a lot of love. Let’s get started!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Easy to make – No complicated steps, just simple mixing and baking.
✅ Perfect balance of sweet & tangy – The creamy filling with fresh lime flavor is irresistible.
✅ No fancy ingredients – Uses pantry staples like graham crackers and condensed milk.
✅ Crowd-pleaser – Always a hit at parties, potlucks, or family desserts.
✅ Make-ahead friendly – Chill overnight for the best texture.

What You’ll Need

For the Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 sheets)
⅓ cup granulated sugar
6 tbsp melted butter
A pinch of salt

For the Filling:

4 large egg yolks (save the whites for another recipe!)
1 (14-oz) can sweetened condensed milk
½ cup Key lime juice (fresh is best, but bottled works too)
1 tbsp Key lime zest (for extra flavor)

For the Topping (Optional but Highly Recommended):

1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
Extra lime zest or slices for garnish

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and salt until it looks like wet sand.
Press the mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie dish, covering the bottom and sides evenly.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool while you make the filling.

(Tip: Use a flat-bottomed cup to press the crust down for an even layer!)

Step 2: Prepare the Key Lime Filling

In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth.
Add the sweetened condensed milk and mix well.
Slowly pour in the Key lime juice while stirring—watch as it thickens beautifully!
Stir in the lime zest for an extra burst of flavor.

(Fun fact: Real Key lime pie is pale yellow, not green! The color comes from the egg yolks and lime juice.)

Step 3: Bake the Pie

Pour the filling into the cooled crust.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes—just until the filling sets (it should jiggle slightly in the center).
Let it cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better!).

Step 4: Add the Whipped Cream Topping (Optional)

Whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
Spread it over the chilled pie or pipe it decoratively.
Garnish with lime zest or thin lime slices for a pretty finish.

Serving & Storing

Serve chilled for the best texture.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days (if it lasts that long!).
For an extra touch, serve with a side of fresh berries.

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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I use regular limes instead of Key limes?
Yes! Regular Persian limes work, but Key limes have a more floral, tart flavor.

2. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better after chilling overnight.

3. Why is my pie filling runny?
It needs more chilling time—4 hours minimum. If still runny, it may need a longer bake (but don’t overbake!).

4. Can I freeze Key lime pie?
Yes, freeze without whipped cream for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

5. Is there a no-bake version?
Yes! Mix filling, pour into crust, and chill 4+ hours (no baking needed).

Recipe Variations

Gluten-Free Crust Option

Replace graham crackers with:

1 ½ cups gluten-free graham crackers or gluten-free cookies (like shortbread)
⅓ cup sugar
6 tbsp melted butter
Pinch of salt

Follow the same crust instructions—it’s just as delicious!

Meringue Topping Instead of Whipped Cream

Use those leftover egg whites for a fluffy meringue:

Beat 4 egg whites with ½ cup sugar and ¼ tsp cream of tartar until stiff peaks form.
Spread over the baked pie (while still warm).
Broil for 1-2 minutes until golden brown (watch closely!).

(Tip: This gives a beautiful, toasted marshmallow-like finish!)

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Final Thoughts

There you have it—the perfect Key lime pie that’s creamy, tangy, and downright irresistible! Whether you’re making it for a summer BBQ or just treating yourself, this pie never disappoints.

Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out in the comments. Happy baking! 🍋✨