Key Lime Dream Recipe
Make Key Lime Dream 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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Graham Cracker Crust
Key Lime Filling
Whipped Cream Topping
Method
Graham Cracker Crust
Make crumbs
Combine graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar in a medium bowl. Add melted unsalted butter and salt; stir until the mixture holds together when pressed (about 20–30 seconds).
Form and bake crust
Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom and about 1 inch up the sides of the prepared pan, using the bottom of a measuring cup for firm, even compression. Bake on the center rack for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and cool slightly while preparing the filling.
Key Lime Filling
Soften and cream the cheese
In a large bowl, beat the room-temperature cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and free of lumps, about 1–2 minutes. Scrape down the bowl as needed.
Add sweetened condensed milk
With the mixer on low, gradually add the sweetened condensed milk and beat until fully combined and silky, about 1 minute.
Incorporate yolks and flavorings
Add the egg yolks one at a time, beating briefly after each addition until incorporated. Add the key lime juice, lime zest, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix on low to medium speed until the filling is smooth and slightly glossy. Do not overbeat (avoid incorporating excess air).
Assemble and bake
Pour the filling into the warm crust and smooth the top with an offset spatula. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–18 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly jiggly (it will finish setting while cooling).
Cool and chill
Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack to room temperature (about 45–60 minutes). Once cooled, cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to firm up and develop flavor.
Whipped Cream Topping
Chill tools
If possible, chill the mixing bowl and beaters for 10–15 minutes in the refrigerator for better whipped cream volume.
Whip cream
Pour the heavy cream into the chilled bowl. Add the confectioners' sugar and vanilla extract. Whip on medium-high speed until soft to medium peaks form, about 2–3 minutes. Do not overwhip; stop when peaks hold shape but still look silky.
Top and garnish
Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled Key Lime filling. Garnish with extra lime zest and, if desired, thin key lime slices or toasted graham crumbs. Keep refrigerated until serving.