📝 About This Recipe
Transport your senses to the tropical shores of the Florida Keys with this quintessential American dessert. This recipe features a velvety, custard-like filling made from authentic tart Key limes, balanced perfectly by a buttery, salt-kissed graham cracker crust. It is a masterful harmony of zesty citrus, creamy sweetness, and a hint of seaside nostalgia that defines the perfect summer treat.
🥗 Ingredients
The Signature Crust
- 1 1/2 cups Graham cracker crumbs (finely pulsed)
- 6 tablespoons Unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
- 1/3 cup Granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt (to balance the sweetness)
The Citrus Custard Filling
- 4 large Egg yolks (at room temperature)
- 28 ounces Sweetened condensed milk (two standard 14oz cans)
- 3/4 cup Key lime juice (freshly squeezed from about 20-25 Key limes)
- 1 tablespoon Key lime zest (finely grated)
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla extract (pure Madagascar vanilla preferred)
The Whipped Topping & Garnish
- 1 cup Heavy whipping cream (very cold)
- 2 tablespoons Powdered sugar (sifted)
- 1 piece Key lime slices (thinly sliced for decoration)
- 4-5 pieces Fresh mint leaves (optional for color)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Position a rack in the center of the oven to ensure even baking for the crust.
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2
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Stir until the dry ingredients are well-distributed.
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3
Pour the melted butter over the crumb mixture. Use a fork to toss the ingredients together until the mixture resembles wet sand and holds its shape when pressed.
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4
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to ensure a flat, even surface and a tight compression.
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5
Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes until it is lightly golden and fragrant. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool while you prepare the filling.
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6
In a large glass bowl, whisk the 4 egg yolks and the Key lime zest together for about 2 minutes until the mixture is pale and slightly thickened.
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7
Slowly pour in both cans of sweetened condensed milk, whisking constantly to incorporate with the yolks.
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8
Gradually whisk in the Key lime juice and vanilla extract. The acid in the lime juice will react with the milk, causing the mixture to thicken naturally.
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9
Pour the citrus filling into the pre-baked crust, smoothing the top with an offset spatula.
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10
Bake the pie at 350°F for 15-18 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center should still have a slight, jello-like jiggle when gently shaken.
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11
Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack at room temperature for at least 1 hour.
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12
Transfer the pie to the refrigerator and chill for a minimum of 4 hours, though overnight is ideal for the best texture and flavor development.
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13
Just before serving, beat the cold heavy cream and powdered sugar in a chilled bowl until stiff peaks form.
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14
Pipe or dollop the whipped cream around the border of the pie. Garnish with thin lime slices and extra zest for a professional finish.
💡 Chef's Tips
If you cannot find fresh Key limes, use a high-quality bottled Key lime juice rather than standard Persian limes for that authentic 'bite'. Always zest your limes before juicing them; it is nearly impossible to zest a squeezed lime half. Do not overbake the filling; if it starts to brown or crack, it will lose its signature silky texture. To get clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between every single cut. For a sturdier whipped cream that won't weep, add a teaspoon of cornstarch or a dollop of mascarpone while whipping.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light, sparkling Prosecco. Pair with a side of fresh tropical fruit like mango or papaya to complement the citrus. A light dusting of toasted coconut flakes over the whipped cream adds a wonderful crunch. Enjoy alongside a cold brew coffee for a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up. For a beach-themed dinner, serve this as the finale to a meal of grilled snapper or shrimp tacos.