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 mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Servings 8 portions
Calories 460 kcal
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
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.