The Ultimate Classic Key Lime Pie Recipe with Whipped Cream and Zesty Lime Garnish

This Classic Key Lime Pie is a timeless dessert with a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy, tart lime filling, and a crown of freshly whipped cream. Finished with lime zest or slices for a decorative touch, it delivers a refreshing balance of sweet and tangy flavors in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pie is deceptively simple to prepare yet tastes luxurious. The filling requires only a few ingredients and comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Its zesty brightness makes it a perfect ending to rich meals, especially during spring and summer.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Graham cracker crumbs

• Unsalted butter

• Granulated sugar

• Sweetened condensed milk

• Egg yolks

• Fresh key lime juice (or bottled key lime juice)

• Lime zest

• Heavy cream

• Powdered sugar

• Lime slices or zest (for garnish)

Directions

1. Make the crust: Preheat the oven. Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press the mixture firmly into a pie dish and bake for about 10 minutes. Let cool slightly.

2. Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, lime juice, and zest until smooth and thickened.

3. Fill and bake: Pour the filling into the cooled crust and bake until just set in the center, about 15 minutes.

4. Cool completely: Let the pie cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.

5. Make the whipped cream: Beat heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.

6. Decorate: Spread or pipe the whipped cream on top of the chilled pie. Garnish with lime slices or additional zest.

7. Serve chilled: Slice and serve straight from the refrigerator for best results.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8 slices
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Chilling Time: 3 hours (minimum)
Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes (including chilling)

Variations

• Meringue topping: Swap whipped cream for a lightly toasted meringue topping.

• Cookie crust: Use crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies instead of graham crackers.

• Coconut twist: Add shredded coconut to the crust for a tropical note.

• Mini pies: Prepare in a muffin tin for individual servings.

Storage/Reheating

Store the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The crust may soften slightly over time, but the filling remains firm and flavorful. For freezing, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Do not reheat.

FAQs

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes, Persian limes can be substituted. The flavor is slightly different but still delicious.

What is the difference between key limes and regular limes?

Key limes are smaller, more aromatic, and slightly more acidic with a distinct tart flavor.

Can I make this pie without baking it?

The crust and filling benefit from baking for texture and safety due to egg yolks. A no-bake version would require different ingredients.

Is bottled key lime juice okay to use?

Yes, bottled key lime juice is a convenient and widely accepted alternative to fresh juice.

How do I know when the pie is set?

The center should jiggle slightly when gently shaken but not be liquid. It firms further while chilling.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely. This pie can be made a day in advance and stored chilled until serving.

What if I don’t have a pie dish?

A tart pan or a square baking dish can work in a pinch. Just watch the baking time.

Why is my filling runny?

It may not have baked long enough or lacked sufficient chilling time.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers or a nut-based crust as a substitute.

Is this pie overly sweet?

No, the lime’s acidity balances the sweetness of the condensed milk for a well-rounded flavor.

Conclusion

This Classic Key Lime Pie offers the perfect mix of creamy richness and bright citrus tang. Simple to make and endlessly rewarding, it’s a beloved dessert that suits casual gatherings and formal occasions alike. Once you’ve tried it, it’s sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire.

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