Key lime pie recipe

Key lime pie is a bright and tangy dessert that's all about the perfect balance of sweet and sour. It features a creamy filling made from fresh key lime juice,…

By Fatima • September 18, 2025 • Reading time: 6 min

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Key lime pie is a bright and tangy dessert that’s all about the perfect balance of sweet and sour. It features a creamy filling made from fresh key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolks, all nestled inside a buttery graham cracker crust. The pie has a smooth, silky texture that melts in your mouth with every bite, topped off with a fluffy cloud of whipped cream for a little extra sweetness.

I love making key lime pie because it’s so simple but feels like a special treat every time. Using real key limes (or the bottled juice if fresh ones aren’t in season) gives it that unique tart kick that’s totally addictive. One tip I always follow is to let it chill in the fridge for at least a few hours before serving—it really helps the flavors to come together and the filling to set just right.

My favorite way to serve key lime pie is with a slice of fresh lime on the side and a cup of coffee nearby. It’s the kind of dessert that instantly brings a little sunshine to the table, reminding me of laid-back summer afternoons. Whether you’re finishing off a weeknight dinner or hosting friends for a weekend gathering, this pie always brings smiles and happy requests for seconds.

How Do You Get the Perfect Set on a Key Lime Pie Filling?

The filling thickens by mixing key lime juice with egg yolks and condensed milk, then baking briefly. Here’s how to nail it:

• Whisk the egg yolks until smooth before adding other ingredients to ensure even texture.
• Don’t overbake. Look for tiny bubbles on the surface, but no browning—this means the filling is set but still creamy.
• Cool pie to room temperature, then chill in the fridge for at least 3 hours to let the filling firm up fully.
• Avoid opening the oven while baking to keep the temperature steady.

Following these steps will give you a smooth, tangy filling that holds its shape without cracking or becoming grainy.

Equipment You’ll Need

• 9-inch pie pan – perfect size for the crust and filling to set nicely.
• Mixing bowls – you’ll need a couple for the crust and filling prep.
• Whisk – great for smoothly blending egg yolks and lime juice into the filling.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer – makes whipping cream easy and quick.
• Measuring cups and spoons – keep your ingredients accurate for the best taste.
• Oven – essential for baking the crust and gently setting the filling.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Try adding coconut flakes to the crust for a tropical twist that pairs well with lime.
• Mix in a little cream cheese with the condensed milk for a richer, tangier filling.
• Swap out key lime for regular lime or lemon juice if you want a different citrus flavor.
• Top with fresh berries or mango slices for a colorful, fresh contrast to the tart pie.

How to Make Key Lime Pie?

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For The Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 full sheets)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar

For The Filling:

• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice (or bottled key lime juice)
• 1 tablespoon key lime zest (optional)

For The Topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• Lime slices and zest, for garnish

How Much Time Will You Need?

The entire process takes roughly 45 minutes of active prep and baking time. After baking, the pie needs at least 3 hours to chill in the refrigerator to set properly before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preparing the Crust:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar together until it feels like wet sand. Press this firmly into a 9-inch pie pan, making sure to press it evenly on the bottom and sides. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes until it’s set and slightly browned. Remove and let it cool.

2. Making the Filling:

In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth, then add the sweetened condensed milk and keep whisking until everything is combined. Stir in the key lime juice and zest, and you’ll notice the filling thickening. Pour the filling into the cooled crust and spread it out evenly.

3. Baking and Chilling:

Bake the pie for 12-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C), looking for tiny bubbles forming on the surface without letting it brown. Take it out and cool to room temperature, then chill in the fridge for at least 3 hours so the pie can set nicely.

4. Whipped Cream Topping and Serving:

Beat the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar together in a chilled bowl with a mixer until you get stiff peaks. Spread or pipe this whipped cream over the pie. Garnish with fresh lime slices and lime zest for a pretty and tasty finish. Slice your chilled pie and enjoy!