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Creamy Key Lime Pie with Graham Cracker Crust

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This easy homemade key lime pie features a creamy, tangy filling and a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s a crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for any occasion, bringing a taste of sunshine to your table.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10–12 full sheets, crushed fine)
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • Pinch of salt (optional)
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (full-fat recommended)
  • 1/2 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
  • 1 tablespoon key lime zest (from about 4–5 key limes)
  • 3 large egg yolks (room temperature)
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold, optional for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional for topping)
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional for topping)
  • Extra lime zest or thin lime slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie plate with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the pie plate using your hands or a flat-bottomed measuring cup.
  4. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant. Let cool on a wire rack.
  5. In a large bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, key lime juice, and lime zest until smooth.
  6. Whisk in egg yolks until creamy and fully combined.
  7. Pour the filling into the cooled crust. Bake at 350°F for 15-17 minutes, until edges are set but the center still wobbles slightly.
  8. Cool the pie to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours (overnight is best).
  9. For whipped cream topping (optional): In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. Spoon or pipe onto chilled pie.
  10. Slice with a sharp knife, wiping clean between cuts. Garnish with lime zest or slices and serve cold.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free graham crackers. For dairy-free, substitute coconut condensed milk, vegan butter, and coconut yogurt. Chill pie thoroughly for best flavor and texture. Whipped cream topping is best added just before serving. For neat slices, use a hot, dry knife. Pie can be made a day ahead and keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: key lime pie, graham cracker crust, creamy pie, easy dessert, summer dessert, Florida pie, citrus dessert, homemade pie, potluck dessert, make-ahead dessert

Find it online: https://blixfood.com/creamy-key-lime-pie-with-graham-cracker-crust-easy-homemade-recipe/