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A delicious slice of traditional key lime pie topped with whipped cream and a lime slice, showcasing the vibrant green hue.
Alyssa

Traditional Key Lime Pie Recipe

Quick and easy key lime pie recipe with a graham cracker crust and a zesty key lime filling.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 516

Ingredients
  

  • 4 teaspoons grated key lime zest
  • 4 egg yolks
  • 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
  • ½ cup fresh key lime juice
  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (approximately 14 full graham crackers)
  • cup light brown sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • Pinch salt
  • cups heavy cream (chilled)
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
  2. Make the Filling: Whisk the lime zest and egg yolks in a medium bowl for 2 minutes. Whisk in the sweetened condensed milk, then the lime juice. Set aside at room temperature to thicken while you prepare the crust.
  3. Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and salt. Drizzle the melted butter over the mixture and press evenly into a 9-inch pie plate. Bake for 10 minutes; cool to room temperature.
  4. Once cooled, pour the lime filling into the crust. Bake until the center is set yet still jiggles slightly, 15 to 17 minutes. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
  5. Make the Whipped Cream: Whip the cream on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Pipe or spread on top of the pie, garnish with lime slices, if desired.

Notes

Cover leftovers with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days.