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Key Lime Pie

This classic key lime pie features a buttery, crumbly graham cracker crust filled with a silky, tangy lime custard. The pie is baked until the edges are golden and the filling just sets with a slight jiggle in the center, resulting in a vibrant, refreshing dessert with a creamy texture and crisp crust.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups Graham cracker crumbs crushed in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin
  • 5 tablespoons Butter melted
  • 2 cans Sweetened condensed milk 14 oz each
  • 1/2 cup Fresh lime juice about 4-5 limes
  • 4 large Egg yolks from large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon Lime zest freshly grated
  • Optional Whipped cream or meringue for topping

Equipment

  • Rolling pin
  • Pie dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Microplane
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

  1. Place graham crackers in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin until finely ground. Mix in melted butter until the mixture resembles damp sand.
  2. Press the crumb mixture evenly into a 9-inch pie dish, using the back of a spoon or your fingers to compact it. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8-10 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden.
  3. While the crust bakes, whisk together the egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk in a bowl until smooth and slightly thickened, about 2 minutes. The mixture should turn a pale, glossy yellow.
  4. Stir in the freshly squeezed lime juice and lime zest until fully incorporated. The filling will thicken and become smooth with a vibrant green hue.
  5. Pour the filling into the pre-baked crust, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface.
  6. Bake the pie in the 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes until the edges are just set and the center still jiggles slightly when gently nudged.
  7. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until thoroughly chilled and set.
  8. If desired, top with whipped cream or meringue before serving for an extra touch of sweetness and texture.
  9. Slice the chilled pie with a sharp knife, revealing the creamy filling nestled in the crisp crust, ready to enjoy.