Delicious Key Lime Pie Recipe
Category: Desserts
Servings: 12
The Key Lime Pie is a refreshing, creamy dessert that brings a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making it an irresistible choice for any occasion. The rich, tangy filling sits atop a crisp, buttery biscuit crust that is baked to perfection. This recipe will guide you step-by-step to make a delightful Key Lime Pie that will impress your guests or satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect Key Lime Pie:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Digestive Biscuits | 250g |
| Butter (melted) | 80g |
| Sugar (for the crust) | 2 tbsp |
| Fresh Lime Juice | 120ml |
| Sweetened Condensed Milk | 400ml |
| Egg Yolks | 4 |
| Lime Zest | 1 tsp |
| Heavy Whipping Cream | 250ml |
| Sugar (for the cream) | 2 tbsp |
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Biscuit Crust
Start by preparing the biscuit crust, which will form the base of your Key Lime Pie. Take the digestive biscuits and place them in a food processor or blender. Pulse them until the biscuits turn into fine crumbs. Add the melted butter and sugar to the biscuit crumbs, then mix thoroughly until the mixture holds together when pressed.
Next, grease a 20 cm (8-inch) round pie dish or a tart pan with removable sides. Press the biscuit mixture into the bottom and up the sides of the dish, creating an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to press the crumbs firmly into place, ensuring the crust is compact and holds its shape once baked.
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the biscuit crust for about 10 minutes, or until it turns golden and slightly crisp. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before filling.
Step 2: Preparing the Creamy Key Lime Filling
While the crust is cooling, it’s time to make the luscious lime filling. In a mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the egg yolks. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the yolks for about 5 minutes, or until they become thick, pale, and fluffy.
Once the yolks are ready, add the sweetened condensed milk and mix until fully incorporated. Gradually pour in the fresh lime juice and zest, mixing until smooth and well combined. This combination creates the tangy and creamy filling that defines a Key Lime Pie.
Step 3: Assembling the Pie
Once the crust has completely cooled, pour the lime filling into the prepared crust. Spread it evenly with a spatula, making sure the filling fills the crust evenly.
At this point, you can decide whether to add a whipped cream topping or meringue. For the whipped cream topping, simply whip the heavy cream and sugar together in a bowl until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the lime filling, or pipe it decoratively for a more polished look.
Step 4: Baking or Chilling
To bake the pie, return it to the oven at 180°C (350°F) and bake for about 10 minutes, just to set the filling without overcooking. After baking, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight, to let the flavors meld and the filling set completely.
Alternatively, if you prefer a meringue topping, you can make an Italian meringue and spread it over the pie before baking it for about 10 minutes at the same temperature until golden. The meringue adds a delightful texture and a touch of sweetness to the tangy lime filling.
Step 5: Serving the Key Lime Pie
Once chilled and set, your Key Lime Pie is ready to be served. Slice the pie into 12 generous servings and garnish with extra lime zest or a few lime wedges for added flair. The tart and creamy filling, combined with the crisp crust, creates a dessert that is both satisfying and refreshing, perfect for any gathering or as a special treat after a delicious meal.
Tips and Variations
- For an extra twist: Add a handful of crushed graham crackers or a touch of ground ginger to the biscuit crust for added flavor and complexity.
- Meringue lovers: If you prefer a fluffy meringue topping, make an Italian meringue by heating sugar and water to a syrup, then gradually adding it to whipped egg whites for a soft, airy topping that can be spread over the pie before baking.
- Make it ahead: Key Lime Pie actually benefits from being made the day before serving, as it allows the flavors to set and meld beautifully. Simply refrigerate the pie overnight for the best results.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving of Key Lime Pie (based on 12 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 340 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 27g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Cholesterol | 105mg |
| Sodium | 120mg |
| Potassium | 150mg |
This Key Lime Pie recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors, with a refreshing tartness from the lime juice and a creamy, rich filling. The crust adds a wonderful crunch, making this pie a perfect dessert for any occasion, from casual dinners to special celebrations.
Enjoy making this delicious Key Lime Pie, and don’t forget to share it with loved ones! Its vibrant lime flavor and smooth texture are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it.
