Key Lime Cream Pie

The Key Lime Cream Pie is a delightful dessert that combines a creamy filling with a buttery graham cracker crust. This pie is perfect for summer gatherings, holiday celebrations, or just a sweet treat at home. Its refreshing citrus flavor, made with real key lime juice, and the velvety texture make it a favorite among dessert lovers. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare and can be made in advance, which means less stress for you on special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: With just four main ingredients for the filling, this pie is straightforward and budget-friendly.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Creamy Texture: The combination of cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk creates a rich and smooth filling that melts in your mouth.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive celebrations, it’s sure to impress your guests.
• Refreshing Flavor: The tanginess of key lime juice offers a bright contrast to the sweetness of the filling and crust.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Key Lime Cream Pie, you’ll need some essential tools to help you along the way.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Pie pan (8 – 9.5)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool makes it easy to achieve a smooth texture for your filling quickly.
• Pie pan: A good-quality pie pan ensures even baking and helps maintain the shape of your crust.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping down mixing bowls and ensuring every bit of creamy goodness makes it into your pie.

Ingredients

The best Key Lime Pie recipe has a creamy 4-ingredient filling and homemade graham cracker crust. It’s so easy to make and great to make in advance.

For the Crust

• 1½ cups ground graham crackers (150g, about 12 full sheets, crushed)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar (67g)
• 6 Tablespoons butter (86g), melted

For the Filling

• 2 14-ounce cans sweetened condensed milk
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened (full fat)
• ¾ cup key lime juice (170g)
• Zest from 2 regular limes or 4 key limes

For the Whipped Cream Topping

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (227g)
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar (30g)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Key Lime Cream Pie

Step 1: Graham Cracker Crust

1. Preheat oven to 350F (180C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
3. Pour crumb mixture into an 8 – 9.5 pie pan.
4. Press it firmly into the bottom of the pan and slightly up the sides.
5. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from oven and allow to cool.

Step 2: Key Lime Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, add cream cheese. Beat with electric beaters until smooth.
2. Add both cans of sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, and lime zest. Mix again until fully combined.
3. Pour this mixture into your prepared graham cracker crust.

Step 3: Bake the Pie

1. Place the pie in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for another 10 minutes.
3. Once done, allow pie to cool for about 30 minutes.
4. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.

Step 4: Whipped Cream Toppings

1. In a clean mixing bowl, add heavy cream. Beat with electric mixers for 1 minute.
2. Slowly add in powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Continue beating until stiff peaks form.
3. Spread or pipe the whipped cream on top of your cooled pie before serving.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious homemade Key Lime Cream Pie!

How to Serve Key Lime Cream Pie

Key Lime Cream Pie is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance its refreshing flavor. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your pie experience.

Classic Slice

• Enjoy a simple slice of Key Lime Cream Pie, garnished with whipped cream and lime zest for an extra touch of flavor.

Mini Pies

• Make individual mini Key Lime Pies in tart shells for easy serving at gatherings. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties.

Parfaits

• Layer pieces of the pie with whipped cream and graham cracker crumbs in a glass for a fun and visually appealing dessert parfait.

Frozen Treats

• Freeze leftover pie slices for a cool twist on this classic dessert. Simply thaw slightly before serving for a refreshing treat.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve slices alongside fresh berries such as strawberries or blueberries. The tartness complements the creamy filling beautifully.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Key Lime Cream Pie

To achieve the ultimate Key Lime Cream Pie, consider these helpful tips that will enhance your baking skills and ensure a delicious outcome.

• Use fresh key limes: For the best flavor, opt for freshly squeezed key lime juice rather than bottled alternatives.
• Chill before serving: Let your pie chill in the refrigerator for at least three hours to allow flavors to meld and set properly.
• Don’t overmix: When combining ingredients for the filling, mix just until smooth to avoid incorporating too much air.
• Perfect crust: Make sure your graham cracker crust is pressed firmly into the pan. This helps it hold its shape when slicing.
• Whip cream carefully: Beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form but take care not to over-whip, which can turn it grainy.
• Add toppings just before serving: To keep whipped cream from wilting, add it right before serving for a fresh presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Key Lime Cream Pie

Pairing side dishes with your Key Lime Cream Pie can create a delightful meal experience. Here are some suggestions that complement this sweet treat perfectly.

1. Grilled Shrimp Tacos: Light tacos filled with grilled shrimp and topped with a citrus slaw offer a zesty contrast to the pie.
2. Coconut Rice: Fluffy coconut rice provides a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the tangy flavors of Key Lime Cream Pie.
3. Avocado Salad: A refreshing avocado salad adds creaminess and balances the tartness of the pie, making it an excellent side option.
4. Summer Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like watermelon, pineapple, and mango offers bright flavors that enhance dessert time.
5. Spicy Black Bean Soup: A warm bowl of spicy black bean soup serves as a hearty start that prepares your palate for dessert.
6. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes on skewers make for easy appetizers that won’t overshadow your sweet finale.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Key Lime Cream Pie can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for a successful dessert.

• Using regular limes: While you can use regular limes, key limes offer a unique flavor. Always opt for fresh key lime juice for the best results.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allow the pie to cool completely before refrigerating. Skipping this step can affect the texture and taste.
• Not chilling properly: Refrigerate the pie for at least three hours. This helps it set correctly, ensuring that each slice holds its shape.
• Overmixing the filling: Mix just until smooth to prevent adding too much air, which can cause cracks in your pie as it cools.
• Ignoring crust preparation: Press the graham cracker crust firmly into the pan. A well-prepared crust will hold together better and provide a delicious base.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Key Lime Cream Pie in an airtight container.
• It can last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Key Lime Cream Pie

• Wrap individual slices or the whole pie in plastic wrap and then foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Key Lime Cream Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (180°C) and warm for about 10 minutes. This is ideal for restoring texture.
• Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Use caution not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Key Lime Cream Pie.

What is Key Lime Cream Pie made of?

Key Lime Cream Pie consists of a creamy filling made from sweetened condensed milk, cream cheese, key lime juice, and zest, all nestled in a homemade graham cracker crust.

Can I use store-bought crust for Key Lime Cream Pie?

Yes, you can use store-bought graham cracker crust if you’re short on time. However, homemade crust adds extra flavor and texture.

How do I know when my Key Lime Cream Pie is set?

The pie should be firm but slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out of the fridge. It will firm up more as it cools.

Is Key Lime Cream Pie gluten-free?

If you make your own gluten-free graham cracker crust or find gluten-free crackers, your Key Lime Cream Pie can be made gluten-free!

Final Thoughts

This Key Lime Cream Pie recipe is both simple and delightful, perfect for any occasion! Its creamy texture and refreshing flavor make it an irresistible dessert. You can customize this pie by adding different toppings or adjusting sweetness levels according to your taste preference. Give it a try – it’s bound to impress friends and family alike!