Key Lime Pie Recipe
Make Key Lime Pie Recipe in just 5h 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Crust
Filling
Topping (optional)
Method
Crust
- 1
Prepare Crust
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). If using whole graham crackers, pulse in a food processor until fine crumbs form. Combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and fine salt in a bowl. Pour in melted butter and stir until all crumbs are evenly moistened and hold together when pressed.
- 2
Form Crust
Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch (23 cm) pie dish, using the bottom of a measuring cup or a flat-bottomed glass to compact. Aim for an even thickness (about 1/4 inch).
- 3
Bake Crust
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, until set and slightly darker at the edges. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly while preparing the filling. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
Filling
- 4
Whisk Filling
In a medium bowl, lightly whisk the egg yolks just to blend. Add the sweetened condensed milk and whisk until smooth and uniform. Stir in the key lime juice, lime zest, and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Mix until the filling thickens slightly and turns a paler shade of green; do not over-whisk.
- 5
Fill Pie
Pour the filling into the warm (not hot) baked crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Gently tap the pie on the counter to release air bubbles.
- 6
Bake Filling
Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are just set and the center still has a slight wobble. Avoid overbaking to keep the filling creamy.
- 7
Cool and Chill
Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature on a wire rack (about 1 hour). Then refrigerate uncovered for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to fully set and develop flavor.
Topping (optional)
- 8
Make Whipped Cream
For the optional topping, chill a mixing bowl and beaters briefly. Pour the heavy cream into the chilled bowl, add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Whip on medium-high speed until soft to medium peaks form — do not overwhip.
- 9
Top and Garnish
Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie just before serving. Garnish with lime slices or additional lime zest. Keep refrigerated until serving.