Creamy Aussie Key Lime Pie with Meringue Topping

Aussie Key Lime Pie Recipe

Overview:

Aussies love their meringues, and this Aussie Key Lime Pie combines the tangy zest of American Key Lime Pie with a delightful optional meringue topping, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Adapted from a trusted Delia Smith recipe, this pie promises a creamy, velvety texture if you follow one key rule: don’t overcook it! It’s a simple yet impressive dessert that can be made ahead or even frozen, making it ideal for dinner parties, picnics, or any sweet gathering.

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Servings: 8 slices

Ingredients:

Meringue Topping (optional):

• 3 egg whites
• 175g white sugar

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:

   • If not using a prepared crust, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • Process the biscuits in a food processor until they resemble fine crumbs.
   • Add melted butter and pulse until well combined. Alternatively, crush biscuits in a bag and mix with melted butter.
   • Press the mixture firmly into the base and sides of a 9-inch flan dish.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Filling:

   • In a small bowl, beat the egg yolks and grated lime zest with an electric mixer until thickened (about 2 minutes).
   • Gradually add the condensed milk, beating until thick and creamy (about 4-5 minutes).
   • Mix in the lime juice until well combined.

3. Assemble and Bake:

   • Pour the filling into the prepared crust.
   • Reduce the oven temperature to 170°C (325°F).
   • Bake the pie on the center shelf of the oven for 10-15 minutes, until the center is just set. Be cautious not to overcook.

4. Cool and Chill:

   • Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
   • Cover and chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve. If not topping with meringue, cover with an inverted dinner plate to maintain a smooth surface.

5. Optional Meringue Topping:

   • Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F) or reset if still warm from baking the pie.
   • Grease two baking sheets.
   • In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form.
   • Gradually add the sugar, beating between each addition, until the mixture is thick and glossy.
   • Transfer the mixture to a piping bag fitted with a medium fluted tip, or simply drop spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheets.
   • Place in the oven on the center shelves, immediately reducing the temperature to 140°C (275°F).
   • Bake for 1 hour (or 1 1/4 hours for a drier meringue), then turn off the oven and leave the meringues inside until completely cool.

6. Serve:

   • When ready to serve, spread a thin layer of whipped cream over the cooled pie and decorate with the prepared meringues.
   • Extra meringues can be served separately or stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

Tips:

• Texture Tip: Avoid overcooking the pie; the center should be just set for a smooth texture.
• Make Ahead: This pie can be made a day ahead and kept chilled in the refrigerator.
• Freezing: If freezing, omit the meringue topping and freeze the pie in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 437.1
• Fat: 25.5g
  • Saturated Fat: 12.5g
• Cholesterol: 127.5mg
• Sodium: 322.5mg
• Carbohydrates: 47.8g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Sugar: 38.6g
• Protein: 6.4g

Keywords:

Dessert, Lime, Citrus, Fruit, Australian, Summer, Sweet, Mixer, Refrigerator, Small Appliance, Less than 4 Hours

Enjoy Your Aussie Key Lime Pie!

This recipe combines the best of both worlds—refreshing lime flavors with a hint of Aussie flair, topped optionally with delicate meringues. Perfect for warm summer days, picnics, or any time you crave a tangy, sweet treat that’s sure to impress!