Go Back

Best Key Lime Pie

A refreshing and tangy Key Lime Pie with a buttery graham cracker crust, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted
  • 0.25 cups granulated sugar
For the Filling
  • 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
  • 0.5 cups sour cream
  • 0.75 cups key lime juice, freshly squeezed for the best flavor
  • 1-2 pieces lime zest from key limes for additional flavor
For Topping
  • 1 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • optional lime slices or zest for garnish optional garnish

Method
 

Prepare the Crust
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until well-blended.
  3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan to create an even layer.
  4. Bake for about 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and let it cool.
Make the Filling
  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and sour cream until smooth.
  2. Gradually add in the key lime juice, mixing well until fully incorporated.
  3. Stir in the lime zest for an extra burst of flavor.
Combine and Bake
  1. Pour the key lime filling into the cooled graham cracker crust and smooth out the top.
  2. Bake for 10-12 minutes, just to set the filling (it should still have a slight jiggle). Remove from the oven and let it cool.
Chill
  1. Refrigerate the pie for at least 3-4 hours, or preferably overnight, to set completely.
Prepare the Topping
  1. In a bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
  2. Spread the whipped cream on top of the chilled pie and garnish with lime slices or extra zest if desired.
Serve
  1. Slice and enjoy this refreshing Best Key Lime Pie with family and friends!

Notes

For fresh ingredients, always opt for fresh key limes when available. Avoid over-mixing the filling once you add the lime juice. To make a gluten-free option, substitute graham crackers with gluten-free cookies. Chill well to intensify flavors and set the filling properly.