Easy Key Lime Pie
User Reviews
5
Easy Key Lime Pie
Description
Easy Key Lime Pie begins with a graham cracker crust made by combining graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter, which is pressed into a pie plate and baked briefly to firm up. The filling blends sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, freshly squeezed key lime juice, and lime zest, poured into the cooled crust. It is baked just long enough for the filling to set, characterized by a gentle jiggle without browning.
The finished pie is smooth and creamy with a tangy lime flavor balanced by the sweetness of the condensed milk. The baked custard-like filling contrasts with the slightly crisp crust, producing a light, refreshing dessert. Chilling the pie for at least four hours enhances the texture and flavor meld.
This pie is traditionally served chilled and can be garnished with lime slices, zest, or whipped cream for an added touch. It pairs nicely with summery gatherings, casual meals, or as a palate cleanser after rich dishes. Using fresh key lime juice or a quality bottled version ensures the characteristic tartness.
Storage notes recommend covering and refrigerating the pie, where it keeps for up to three days. It should be loosely covered with foil or plastic wrap to maintain freshness without condensation compromising the crust.
Ingredients
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs finely ground
- 1/3 cup white sugar
- 6 tablespoons butter melted
For the Pie:
- 2 1/2 cups sweetened condensed milk (about two 14 ounce cans)
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 3/4 cup key lime juice
- 1 tablespoon lime grated zest
- Whipped Cream optional, for garnish
Instructions
To make the Graham Cracker Crust:
- In a medium bowl, stir together graham cracker crumbs, sugar and melted butter until well combined. Press mixture into a 9-inch pie plate. Bake at 375° F for 7 minutes. Cool completely.
To make the Pie:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a medium bowl, combine condensed milk, sour cream, lime juice and zest. Mix well and pour into baked graham cracker crust. Tap pie plate gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
- Bake in preheated oven for 5 to 8 minutes, until the filling is set and barely jiggles. Do not brown. Allow pie to cool to room temperature. Chill pie thoroughly (at least 4 hours) before serving. Garnish with lime slices or zest and whipped cream if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh key limes or a reputable bottled key lime juice for the best citrus flavor.
- Chill the pie thoroughly, at least 4 hours, to develop texture and enhance flavor.
- Store covered loosely in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep the crust crisp and filling fresh.
- Optional garnish includes lime slices, zest, or whipped cream for presentation and added flavor contrast.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 12servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 356 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1slice | |
| Calories | 356kcal | 18% |
| Carbohydrates | 51g | 17% |
| Protein | 6g | 12% |
| Fat | 15g | 23% |
| Saturated Fat | 9g | 45% |
| Cholesterol | 44mg | 15% |
| Sodium | 212mg | 9% |
| Potassium | 293mg | 6% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 44g | 88% |
| Vitamin A | 442IU | 9% |
| Vitamin C | 6mg | 7% |
| Calcium | 209mg | 21% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.