Description
This classic Key Lime Pie with Whipped Cream is a refreshing and tangy dessert perfect for summer. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy tangy key lime filling, and a fluffy whipped cream topping, this pie brings a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
Scale
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest
For the whipped cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish to form an even crust layer. Bake the crust for 8 to 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
- Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, key lime juice, and key lime zest until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Pour this filling evenly into the pre-baked crust, spreading gently to cover.
- Bake the pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 17 minutes. The center should be set but still slightly jiggly to retain its creamy texture. Once done, remove the pie and let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Chill the pie: After cooling, refrigerate the pie for at least 3 hours or until it is thoroughly chilled and set for the best texture and flavor.
- Prepare the whipped cream topping: While the pie chills, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a large bowl using an electric mixer or whisk. Continue beating until soft peaks form, which means the cream will hold gentle peaks that slightly bend over.
- Serve: Just before serving, spread or pipe the freshly whipped cream evenly over the chilled pie. Optionally, garnish with additional key lime zest or lime slices for an attractive presentation.
Notes
- If you can’t find key limes, regular limes or bottled key lime juice can be used instead without compromising much on flavor.
- For a delicious twist, substitute the graham cracker crumbs with crushed gingersnap cookies to bring a spicy note to the crust.
