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Delicious slice of homemade Key Lime Pie with whipped cream and lime garnish.

Key Lime Pie

A delightful, tangy dessert with a creamy filling in a buttery graham cracker crust, perfect for summer picnics and family gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dessert, Sweet Treat
Cuisine: American, Tropical
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the crust
  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs Gives the crust its delightful crunch and earthy sweetness.
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted Adds richness and binds the crust together.
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the crust while contrasting perfectly with the tangy filling.
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon Adds a subtle warmth to the crust.
For the filling
  • 2 cans sweetened condensed milk (14 ounces each) Provides creaminess and sweetness to the filling.
  • 3/4 cup key lime juice The star ingredient that gives the pie its signature tartness.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream Balances the sweetness and enhances the creaminess.
  • 2 tablespoons grated key lime zest Boosts the lime flavor with fragrant citrus notes.
For the whipped cream topping
  • 1 cup whipping cream Adds lightness.
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar Sweetens the whipped cream for a delightful finish.
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds a subtle depth of flavor to the topping.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon in a mixing bowl. Mix until well combined.
  3. Press this mixture into a 9-inch pie pan to form an even crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 7 minutes and then let it cool for 30 minutes.
Filling
  1. In another bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, sour cream, and grated lime zest until smooth and well blended.
  2. Pour this filling into your cooled pie crust.
  3. Bake for an additional 9 to 10 minutes, just until set. Allow to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours to firm up.
Whipped cream
  1. Chill a mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer. Once ready, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
Finish and serve
  1. Spread or pipe the whipped cream on top of the chilled pie. Garnish with extra lime zest or lime slices if desired.

Notes

Use fresh key limes for vibrant flavor; chill mixing bowl and beaters for better whipped cream results. Experiment with coconut milk or different citrus juices for a unique flavor twist.