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key lime pie recipe

Zesty and Creamy Key Lime Pie Recipe – A Refreshing Citrus Dessert You’ll Love

Enjoy the tangy and sweet flavors of this classic Key Lime Pie, a beloved dessert hailing from the Florida Keys.
Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Course desserts
Servings 8 portions
Calories 460 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Graham Cracker Crust (22 cm / 9-inch pie dish) :

  • 150 g digestive biscuits
  • 87 g unsalted butter melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar optional

For the Creamy Key Lime Filling

  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1 can approx. 397g sweetened condensed milk
  • Zest of 3 key limes
  • 125 ml freshly squeezed key lime juice
  • 100 ml crème fraîche

For the Light Meringue Topping

  • 2 large egg whites
  • 80 g granulated sugar
  • 1 pinch of salt

Instructions
 

Make the Crust

  • Use a food processor, blender, or Thermomix to finely crush the digestive biscuits (or graham crackers) until they resemble sand.
  • Transfer the crumbs to a mixing bowl. Add the melted butter and sugar (only if your biscuits aren’t sweet enough). Stir with a spatula until the mixture is well combined and resembles wet sand.
  • Lightly grease a 22–23 cm (9-inch) pie dish. Pour the crumb mixture in and press it evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the dish. Use the flat bottom of a small glass or mortar to pack it firmly and create a smooth, even base.
  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the crust for 10 minutes until slightly golden and set. Remove and let it cool completely while you prepare the filling.

Make the Key Lime Filling

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the egg yolks, lime zest, crème fraîche, and sweetened condensed milk.
  • Use an electric mixer and beat the mixture on high speed for about 2 minutes until smooth and creamy.
  • Slowly pour in the key lime juice and mix again until fully incorporated. The filling will thicken slightly—this is perfect.
  • Pour the lime cream into the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
  • Return the pie to the oven and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 15 minutes. The center should be just set with a slight jiggle.
  • Let the pie cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or overnight) until fully set and chilled.

Make the Meringue Topping

  • In a clean, dry mixing bowl, add the egg whites and a pinch of salt. Whip using an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
  • Slowly sprinkle in the sugar, a spoonful at a time, while continuing to whip. Beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.
  • Spoon the meringue into a piping bag fitted with a star or round tip. Pipe decorative swirls or peaks over the top of the chilled pie.
  • Lightly toast the meringue using a kitchen torch until golden brown. Be careful not to burn it—just a light caramel color is perfect.
  • Sprinkle over some fresh key lime zest for a vibrant touch and serve immediately or chill until ready to enjoy.