If you have a hankering for a tangy yet creamy dessert that feels like sunshine in every bite, then you are going to absolutely adore this Easy Key Lime Pie Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of zesty key lime juice, smooth sweetened condensed milk, and a buttery graham cracker crust that holds it all together with a satisfying crunch. This pie isn’t just delicious; it’s refreshingly simple to make, which means you can whip it up anytime you want to impress family or friends without breaking a sweat. Keep reading, and I’ll walk you through every step to create a Key Lime Pie that will have you coming back for seconds and sharing the secret with everyone you know.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Easy Key Lime Pie Recipe lies in its straightforward list of ingredients — nothing too fancy, but each one plays a vital role in creating the luscious flavor and perfectly textured pie you’ll fall in love with. From the graham cracker crumbs that form the crispy base to the fresh lime zest that wakes up your taste buds, every element is worth savoring.
- Graham cracker crumbs (1 ½ cups): Provide a buttery, crunchy foundation that perfectly complements the tart filling.
- Granulated sugar (1/3 cup): Adds just enough sweetness to balance the lime’s tang without overpowering it.
- Melted butter (6 tablespoons): Helps bind the crust ingredients and adds a rich, indulgent flavor.
- Sweetened condensed milk (2 cans, 14 ounces each): Brings creamy sweetness and a smooth texture to the pie’s filling.
- Key lime juice (¾ cup): The star of the show, giving this pie its signature bright and zesty kick.
- Sour cream (½ cup): Adds a subtle tang and gives the filling a silken finish.
- Grated lime zest (1 tablespoon): Infuses aromatic citrus notes and elevates the pie’s fresh flavor.
How to Make Easy Key Lime Pie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This step ensures your crust bakes evenly and gets that delicious golden color just right—setting the stage for the filling to shine.
Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
In a large bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are fully coated with butter, which will help the crust hold together when baked. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish using the back of a spoon. Pop it into the oven and prebake for 8 minutes to give it a wonderfully crisp texture—this little step makes all the difference!
Step 3: Whisk the Filling
While the crust is baking, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, sour cream, and lime zest in a large bowl until perfectly smooth. This mixture should look creamy and vibrant, promising that tart and sweet combo we’re after.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
Pour the lime filling into your pre baked graham cracker crust and gently smooth the top with a spatula so the filling is even. Bake the pie for 18–20 minutes until it’s mostly set but still slightly jiggly in the center—that’s just perfect because it will continue to firm up as it cools.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Once out of the oven, let the pie rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. Then cover it and transfer to the fridge to chill for at least one hour. This chilling step is key to achieving that luscious, creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
How to Serve Easy Key Lime Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh lime zest or a few thin lime slices on top instantly amps up the pie’s eye appeal and citrus aroma. For a fun twist, add a dollop of whipped cream or garnish with toasted coconut flakes for extra texture and tropical flair.
Side Dishes
This vibrant pie pairs beautifully with light, fresh accompaniments like a simple mixed green salad or a refreshing fruit sorbet. These lighter sides complement the rich and tangy flavors of the pie without competing for attention.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual slices in clear glass dessert dishes to showcase the luscious layers, or cut the pie into bite-sized squares for a party platter. You can even make mini versions in tartlet pans if you want to impress guests with adorable single servings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover pie covered in the refrigerator and it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen with a little rest time, so it tastes even better the next day!
Freezing
If you want to make this Easy Key Lime Pie Recipe in advance, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
This pie is best served chilled and should not be reheated, as warming can affect the creamy filling’s texture. Just take it out a few minutes before serving and it will soften just enough to delight every bite.
FAQs
Can I use regular lime juice instead of key lime juice?
Absolutely! While key lime juice has a unique tartness, regular lime juice works well too and will still give you that refreshing lime flavor.
Do I need to prebake the crust?
Prebaking the crust helps it set firmly so it doesn’t get soggy from the filling. It also adds a nice crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy center.
Can I make this recipe without sour cream?
Sour cream adds tang and smoothness, but you can substitute with Greek yogurt if needed. Just expect a slightly different but still delicious flavor.
How long does the pie need to chill before serving?
At least one hour is ideal to allow the filling to set fully and develop that luscious texture everyone loves.
Is this pie gluten-free?
The classic recipe uses graham crackers, which typically contain gluten. To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or another gluten-free crust alternative.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about making a dessert that tastes like a dream but comes together so effortlessly. This Easy Key Lime Pie Recipe is exactly that—a bright, creamy, and slightly tart indulgence you can whip up with just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep. Trust me, once you try this pie, it will become your go-to recipe to brighten any summer day or special occasion. So grab those limes, get baking, and enjoy every delightful slice!
Print
Easy Key Lime Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 12 minutes
- Cook Time: 26 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 38 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Key Lime Pie recipe features a tangy and creamy filling made with key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and sour cream, all nestled in a crisp graham cracker crust. Perfectly balanced with a hint of lime zest, this refreshing dessert is quick to prepare and requires just a few ingredients, making it a quintessential no-fuss treat that’s ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 crackers)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons melted butter
Filling
- 2 (14-ounce) cans sweetened condensed milk
- ¾ cup key lime juice
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon grated lime zest
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F to prepare for prebaking the crust and baking the pie.
- Prepare and Prebake the Crust: In a large bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Transfer the mixture to a 9-inch pie dish and press firmly against the bottom and sides using the back of a spoon to form a compact crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 8 minutes, then remove and allow to cool slightly.
- Mix the Filling: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, sour cream, and grated lime zest until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Fill and Bake the Pie: Pour the prepared filling into the prebaked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake the pie for 18 to 20 minutes until the filling is mostly set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool and Chill: Let the pie rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to cool. Afterward, cover it and transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least one hour before serving, allowing the filling to fully set and develop flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh key lime juice for the most authentic tart flavor; bottled lime juice can be used as a substitute but may slightly alter the taste.
- Allowing the pie to chill in the fridge is crucial for the filling to firm up properly.
- Garnish with whipped cream or additional lime zest for an added decorative touch.
- Store leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
