The Key Lime Cream Pie is a delightful dessert that brings the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. With its creamy filling and buttery graham cracker crust, this pie is an ideal treat for any occasion—from summer barbecues to holiday gatherings. Its simplicity makes it a favorite among both novice and experienced bakers, allowing you to impress friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- How to Make Key Lime Cream Pie
- Step 1: Graham Cracker Crust
- Step 2: Key Lime Filling
- Step 3: Bake the Pie
- Step 4: Whipped Cream Toppings
- How to Serve Key Lime Cream Pie
- Classic Slice
- Fruit Garnish
- Coconut Flakes
- Chocolate Drizzle
- Mini Pies
- How to Perfect Key Lime Cream Pie
- Best Side Dishes for Key Lime Cream Pie
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Key Lime Cream Pie
- Reheating Key Lime Cream Pie
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Key Lime Cream Pie?
- How do I make my Key Lime Cream Pie more tart?
- Can I use store-bought crust for Key Lime Cream Pie?
- How do I know when my Key Lime Cream Pie is done baking?
- Can I add toppings to my Key Lime Cream Pie?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients, this recipe simplifies the pie-making process.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of key lime juice and cream cheese creates a refreshing and creamy taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a holiday dinner, this pie fits right in.
- Make Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance and store in the fridge, saving you time on busy days.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your whipped cream toppings or even add fresh fruit for extra flair.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Key Lime Cream Pie, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make baking more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 8 – 9.5 pie pan
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: This tool ensures your cream cheese is whipped to perfection, creating a smooth filling.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your pie.
Ingredients
The best Key Lime Pie recipe has a creamy 4-ingredient filling and homemade graham cracker crust. It’s so easy to make and great to make in advance.
Ingredients:
– 1½ cups ground graham crackers ((150g), (about 12 full sheets, crushed))
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar ((67g))
– 6 Tablespoons butter ((86g), melted)
– 2 14 ounce cans sweetened condensed milk
– 4 ounces cream cheese, softened (full fat)
– ¾ cup key lime juice ((170g))
– zest from 2 regular limes, or 4 key limes
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream ((227g))
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar ((30g))
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Key Lime Cream Pie
Step 1: Graham Cracker Crust
- Preheat oven to 350F (180C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
- Pour crumb mixture into an 8 – 9.5 pie pan.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan and slightly up the sides.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from oven and allow to cool.
Step 2: Key Lime Filling
- In a mixing bowl, add cream cheese. Beat well with electric beaters until smooth.
- Add both cans of sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, and lime zest. Mix again until completely smooth.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust.
Step 3: Bake the Pie
- Place the pie in the preheated oven.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Allow pie to cool for about 30 minutes before refrigerating for at least 3 hours before serving.
Step 4: Whipped Cream Toppings
- In a mixing bowl, add heavy cream. Beat with electric mixers for about 1 minute.
- Gradually add in powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
- Spread or pipe the whipped cream on top of the cooled pie, adding extra flair as desired.
Enjoy your deliciously refreshing Key Lime Cream Pie, perfect for any gathering!
How to Serve Key Lime Cream Pie
Serving Key Lime Cream Pie is a delightful experience, perfect for any occasion. This refreshing dessert can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing its zesty flavor and creamy texture.
Classic Slice
- Serve a traditional slice with a dollop of whipped cream on top for a classic presentation.
Fruit Garnish
- Add slices of fresh lime or berries around the pie to bring out its vibrant colors and flavors.
Coconut Flakes
- Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the top for added texture and a tropical touch.
Chocolate Drizzle
- Drizzle melted chocolate on top or around the plate for a rich contrast to the tartness of the pie.
Mini Pies
- Serve individual mini key lime pies in small cups or jars for a fun, shareable option.
How to Perfect Key Lime Cream Pie
Perfecting your Key Lime Cream Pie can elevate this dessert to new heights. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve the best results:
- Use fresh key limes: Fresh key limes provide the best flavor. If unavailable, regular limes work too.
- Chill thoroughly: Allowing the pie to chill for at least three hours helps it set properly and develop flavors.
- Beat cream cheese well: Ensure the cream cheese is smooth before adding other ingredients to avoid lumps.
- Don’t overbake: Bake just until set; overbaking can give the filling an undesirable texture.
- Whip cream to stiff peaks: For perfect whipped cream topping, beat until stiff peaks form but don’t overbeat it into butter.
- Serve cold: This pie is best served straight from the fridge, maintaining its refreshing qualities.
Best Side Dishes for Key Lime Cream Pie
Pairing side dishes with your Key Lime Cream Pie enhances your dessert experience. Here are some great options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the tartness of the pie.
- Coconut Macaroons: These sweet treats complement the key lime flavor with their chewy texture and coconut taste.
- Grilled Pineapple: The caramelized sweetness of grilled pineapple pairs wonderfully with citrus desserts.
- Lemon Sorbet: A scoop of lemon sorbet offers a cool contrast that enhances the zesty notes of key lime pie.
- Minted Garden Salad: A light salad with mint dressing refreshes the palate between bites of rich pie.
- Chocolate Mousse: For chocolate lovers, a light mousse provides a decadent yet airy pairing with tangy pie.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Key Lime Cream Pie can be simple, but small errors can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:
- Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the pie to cool completely before refrigerating ensures the filling sets properly. Don’t rush this process!
- Using regular limes instead of key limes: Key limes provide that unique tart flavor. If you can’t find them, look for bottled key lime juice.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science. Use precise measurements for ingredients like sweetened condensed milk and lime juice for balanced flavor.
- Overmixing the filling: Mixing too much can introduce air, leading to cracks in your pie. Mix until just smooth and combined.
- Neglecting to chill the pie long enough: For the best texture, refrigerate your pie for at least three hours before serving. This allows it to firm up beautifully.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Container: Use an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
Freezing Key Lime Cream Pie
- Duration: Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Container: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container.
Reheating Key Lime Cream Pie
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Place pie on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Not recommended as this method may spoil the texture of your pie.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Key Lime Cream Pie?
Key Lime Cream Pie is a delicious dessert made with a creamy filling featuring key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and cream cheese in a graham cracker crust.
How do I make my Key Lime Cream Pie more tart?
To enhance the tartness, increase the amount of key lime juice slightly or add more zest from fresh limes.
Can I use store-bought crust for Key Lime Cream Pie?
Yes, using a store-bought graham cracker crust can save time. Just ensure it’s of good quality for best results.
How do I know when my Key Lime Cream Pie is done baking?
The pie should be set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center when it’s done baking; it will firm up as it cools.
Can I add toppings to my Key Lime Cream Pie?
Absolutely! Whipped cream, lime slices, or toasted coconut are great additions that enhance both flavor and presentation.
Final Thoughts
This Key Lime Cream Pie recipe is not only easy and quick but also incredibly delicious. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. Feel free to customize it by adding different toppings or adjusting the sweetness level to suit your taste!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Key Lime Cream Pie
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 8 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the creamy delight of Key Lime Cream Pie, a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness that captures the essence of summer. This easy-to-make dessert features a luscious filling made from fresh key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and cream cheese, all nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or celebrating a holiday gathering, this pie is sure to impress your guests without keeping you in the kitchen for hours. Its make-ahead option allows you to prepare it in advance, making it an ideal choice for busy days. Top with homemade whipped cream and a sprinkle of lime zest for an extra touch of elegance!
Ingredients
- 1½ cups ground graham crackers
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 6 Tablespoons melted butter
- 2 cans sweetened condensed milk
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- ¾ cup key lime juice
- Zest from 2 regular limes
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press into an 8" – 9.5" pie pan and bake for 10 minutes; let cool.
- Beat cream cheese until smooth; blend in sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, and zest until combined. Pour into cooled crust.
- Bake for another 10 minutes; cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
- Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form; spread on top before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (128g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
