Mini Key Lime Pies
User Reviews
5
Mini Key Lime Pies
Description
Mini Key Lime Pies are small individually portioned desserts built on store-bought graham cracker crusts. The filling blends sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and key lime juice to create a creamy, tart custard that is baked briefly at medium temperature until just set, leaving it slightly jiggly before cooling. The key lime juice provides a distinctive citrus piquancy typical of Key lime pies, while the condensed milk adds sweetness and thickness without requiring additional sugar.
After baking, the pies are chilled to firm up the filling for clean slices and a cold finish. The recipe includes instructions for a homemade whipped cream made from heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla, which adds a subtle sweetness and light, airy contrast to the dense, custardy lime filling. The combination of textures and the bright lime flavor make these pies a refreshing treat ideal for warm weather or casual gatherings.
Using pre-made mini crusts simplifies preparation, making it easy to create consistent portions. The brief baking time ensures the filling cooks safely without browning, preserving the delicate flavor balance. Garnishing with thin lime slices adds a fresh visual appeal. These mini pies work well as handheld treats at parties or as a light dessert portion after meals.
The notes mention that nutrition estimates come from an online calculator and suggest adjusting as needed, indicating flexibility in portion sizing or ingredient substitutions. The careful mixing method with slow addition of lime juice helps prevent curdling and ensures a smooth filling.
Ingredients
- 12 Graham Cracker Crust I used Keebler brand, 3-inch mini
- 21 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 2 egg large
- 8 oz lime juice Nellie and Joe's Key West brand
- 1 lime optional, thinly sliced, for garnish
HOMEMADE WHIPPED CREAM
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 3-4 TBSP powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract pure
Instructions
- Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Gently mix eggs and condensed milk with a hand mixer.
- Continue to beat on LOW while SLOWLY adding lime juice. Mix until juice has been incorporated into the filling.
- Pour into store-bought mini graham cracker crusts. Keelber makes mini crusts in little foil pie tins and they're super convenient for this recipe!
- Bake at 350 F for 8-10 minutes. Filling will be wiggly and pale. (should not be browned at all) Allow to cool completely on a cooling rack then transfer to fridge for 2-3 hours or until nice and cold. May chill overnight if desired.
- If making the homemade whipped cream, first place the beaters from an electric hand mixer and a large glass or stainless steel bowl in freezer. Keep cream in the fridge until ready to whip.
- After they've had time to chill (approx. 10-15 min) add the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to your bowl. Start mixing on low speed, then increase the speed to medium-high until soft or stiff peaks form.
- Place bowl in fridge until ready to decorate. Pipe onto the pies using a star tip and piping bag or simply serve a dollop of fresh whipped cream on each mini pie. Thinly sliced lime wedge make a pretty garnish.
Notes
- Use pre-made mini graham cracker crusts for convenience and consistent portion sizes.
- Mix eggs and condensed milk gently before slowly adding lime juice to avoid curdling the filling.
- Chill the pies for at least 2-3 hours or overnight to allow the filling to fully set and develop flavor.
- Prepare whipped cream from chilled heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract for topping.
- Garnish with thin lime slices if desired for fresh appearance.
- Nutrition facts are estimates; ingredient quantities can be adjusted as needed.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 12servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 353 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 353kcal | 18% |
| Carbohydrates | 41g | 14% |
| Protein | 6g | 12% |
| Fat | 16g | 25% |
| Saturated Fat | 8g | 40% |
| Cholesterol | 71mg | 24% |
| Sodium | 148mg | 6% |
| Potassium | 253mg | 5% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 32g | 64% |
| Vitamin A | 473IU | 9% |
| Vitamin C | 9mg | 10% |
| Calcium | 166mg | 17% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.