Zesty Two-Layer Key Lime Pie with Creamy Topping

Two-Layer Key Lime Pie

If you’re searching for a dessert that blends refreshing citrus with creamy indulgence, look no further than this delightful Two-Layer Key Lime Pie. Featuring a crisp, buttery crust layered with tangy lime filling and topped with a luscious, creamy layer, this pie is a showstopper at any gathering. Its balanced sweetness and tartness are sure to captivate your taste buds, making it a favorite for anyone who loves the bright, zesty flavors of Key lime.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 3/4 cup granola cereal
• 3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 tablespoons sugar

For the Lime Filling:

• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice (about 4 limes)
• 3 egg yolks

For the Creamy Layer:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Topping (optional):

• Sweetened whipped cream or Cool Whip

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.

2. Prepare the Crust:
   In a food processor, pulse the granola cereal until it is coarsely ground. Transfer the ground granola into a mixing bowl. Add the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir the mixture until well combined and crumbly.

3. Form the Crust:
   Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch deep dish glass pie plate. Ensure that the crust is evenly distributed and well-pressed.

4. Bake the Crust:
   Place the pie plate in the preheated oven and bake for about 8 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely.

5. Lower the Oven Temperature:
   Reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (150°C) as you prepare the lime filling.

6. Prepare the Lime Filling:
   In a bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lime juice, and egg yolks until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. Pour this filling into the cooled pie crust.

7. Bake the Pie:
   Return the pie to the oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the filling is set. Allow the pie to cool to room temperature after baking.

8. Prepare the Creamy Layer:
   In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lime juice, sugar, and vanilla extract. Continue to beat until the mixture is creamy and well combined.

9. Assemble the Pie:
   Once the pie has cooled, pour the creamy lime mixture over the baked lime filling layer. Use a butter knife or spatula to spread the mixture evenly and smooth out the top.

10. Chill the Pie:
    Cover the pie and refrigerate it until the creamy layer is firm, which will take at least 4 hours.

11. Add Topping (Optional):
    Before serving, top the pie with sweetened whipped cream or Cool Whip if desired.

This Two-Layer Key Lime Pie is not only visually appealing with its vibrant lime layers but also provides a wonderful contrast between the tangy filling and the creamy topping. Perfect for a potluck or a casual dessert, this pie is sure to impress your friends and family with its refreshing flavor and delightful texture.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

• Calories: 516.1
• Fat: 26.7g
• Saturated Fat: 14.1g
• Cholesterol: 139mg
• Sodium: 223.3mg
• Carbohydrates: 60.8g
• Fiber: 1.3g
• Sugar: 51.4g
• Protein: 10.5g

This recipe yields 8 servings, making it a perfect choice for gatherings where you want to serve a delectable dessert that is both easy to make and full of flavor. Enjoy the vibrant tang of lime paired with the creamy goodness in each slice of this Two-Layer Key Lime Pie! 🍰🕒