How to Make a Traditional American Key Lime Pie

Key lime pie is a classic dessert that brings a refreshing tartness balanced with creamy sweetness, making it a favorite in American kitchens, especially in Florida. Here’s how to make a traditional American Key lime pie from scratch.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 graham crackers crushed)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• Pinch of salt

For the Filling:

• 3 large egg yolks
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed Key lime juice (about 12-15 Key limes)
• Zest of 2-3 Key limes (optional for extra flavor)

For the Topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture sticks together when pressed.
3. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to make sure it’s evenly pressed.
4. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until lightly golden and firm. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth.
2. Add the sweetened condensed milk to the egg yolks and whisk until fully combined.
3. Stir in the freshly squeezed Key lime juice and lime zest if using. The acidity from the lime juice will help thicken the mixture.
4. Pour the filling into the cooled graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top.

Step 3: Bake the Pie

1. Bake the pie in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly wobbly in the center.
2. Remove from the oven and allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature.
3. Once cooled, refrigerate the pie for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to fully set.

Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream Topping

1. In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. This will take about 3-5 minutes.
2. Once the pie is fully set, spread the whipped cream on top, or pipe it decoratively around the edges of the pie.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish the pie with lime slices or zest if desired.
2. Slice and serve chilled for a refreshing, sweet-tart treat.

Tips for Success:

• Key Limes: Key limes are smaller and more tart than regular limes. If you can’t find them, you can substitute with regular limes, but the flavor might differ slightly.
• Whipping Cream: Make sure the whipping cream is chilled before whipping for the best texture.
• Chill the Pie Well: Refrigerating the pie for several hours helps the filling firm up and allows the flavors to meld together.

Key lime pie is a beloved dessert with its creamy texture and zesty flavor. By following these steps, you can recreate this traditional American dessert in your own kitchen.