How to Make a Classic American Key Lime Pie

How to Make a Classic American Key Lime Pie

Key lime pie is a beloved American dessert originating from the Florida Keys. It is a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and creamy flavors with a crisp graham cracker crust. The authentic recipe uses key limes, which are smaller and more aromatic than regular Persian limes. This guide will take you through the step-by-step process of making a classic American Key Lime Pie from scratch.

Ingredients

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 ½ cups (about 12 sheets) graham cracker crumbs
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Key Lime Filling:

• 3 large egg yolks
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup freshly squeezed key lime juice (about 20 key limes)
• 1 tablespoon key lime zest

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and rolling them with a rolling pin.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
4. Press the mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring even coverage on the bottom and sides.
5. Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Key Lime Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they become thick and pale yellow.
2. Slowly add the sweetened condensed milk while continuing to whisk.
3. Stir in the freshly squeezed key lime juice and zest, mixing until smooth and well combined.
4. Pour the filling into the pre-baked graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 3: Bake the Pie

1. Bake the pie at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until the filling is just set but slightly jiggly in the center.
2. Remove from the oven and let the pie cool at room temperature for 30 minutes.
3. Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours (or preferably overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the pie to fully set.

Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream Topping

1. In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
2. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie just before serving.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Garnish with extra key lime zest or thin lime slices for a decorative touch.
2. Slice the pie into wedges and serve chilled.

Tips for the Best Key Lime Pie

• Use fresh key limes: Bottled lime juice lacks the vibrant citrus flavor of freshly squeezed key limes.
• Chill thoroughly: Letting the pie set in the refrigerator for several hours ensures a firm, creamy texture.
• Avoid overbaking: The filling should be just set with a slight jiggle in the center. Overbaking can make the filling too firm.
• Substituting key limes: If you can’t find key limes, Persian limes can be used, but the flavor won’t be as authentic.

Conclusion

Classic American Key Lime Pie is a simple yet incredibly delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tart lime filling, sweetened condensed milk, and buttery graham cracker crust, this pie is a refreshing treat that embodies the essence of Florida’s famous citrus. Try this recipe and enjoy a slice of this iconic American dessert!