Key Lime Pie Recipe
Key lime pie is a summertime classic that’s easy to make and always hits the spot.
With its creamy filling and graham cracker crust, it’s one of those desserts that feels indulgent without being too heavy.
Can You Freeze Key Lime Pie?
Yes, you can freeze key lime pie. In fact, some people prefer it that way. Freezing gives the pie a firmer texture and helps it hold together better when sliced. If you decide to freeze it, wait until the pie has cooled completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready to serve, let it thaw in the fridge overnight.
Where Did Key Lime Pie Originate From?
Key lime pie comes from the Florida Keys. It’s said to have been invented by local residents who had limited access to refrigeration and fresh milk. Instead, they used canned sweetened condensed milk, which became a signature part of the recipe. The pie got its name from the small, tart key limes that grow in the region. Over time, it became the official state pie of Florida and remains closely tied to that part of the country.
How Long Does Key Lime Pie Last?
A freshly made key lime pie will last about three to four days in the refrigerator. Be sure to cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from other foods in the fridge. The whipped topping, if used, may start to deflate after a couple of days, but the pie itself should still taste great.
Is Key Lime Pie A Cheesecake?
No, key lime pie is not a cheesecake, though they have a similar texture. Cheesecake is typically made with cream cheese and has a denser consistency. Key lime pie, on the other hand, uses sweetened condensed milk and egg yolks, which give it a lighter, more custard-like filling. The main ingredient difference is what separates the two, even though they both often share a graham cracker crust.
Can Dogs Have Key Lime Pie?
Dogs should not eat key lime pie. The ingredients used in the pie, especially sugar, dairy, and lime juice, can upset a dog’s stomach. Limes themselves contain compounds that are toxic to dogs in large amounts. Even a small slice of pie could lead to digestive issues. It’s best to keep this dessert out of reach from pets.
Storage Instructions
To store key lime pie:
- Refrigerator: Place the pie in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. It will last in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pie (without any whipped topping). Wrap it in plastic and then foil. When ready to eat, defrost it in the fridge overnight. It can be stored frozen for up to 2 months.
- Room temperature: Don’t leave the pie out for more than two hours. Because it contains eggs and dairy, it needs to be kept chilled to stay safe and fresh.
Key Lime Pie
Equipment
- 1 9 inch pie pan
Materials
For the Crust
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
For the rest of the pie
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup fresh squeezed key lime juice
For garnish
- lime zest
- whipped cream
Instructions
For the Crust
- Preheat oven to 350℉. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Mix well.
- Pour in the butter and combine until the mixture resembles wet sand. Pour into a pie dish, using your fingers to gently press mixture evenly.
- Bake for 8 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool.
Everything else
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk. Once incorporated, whisk in the lime juice.
- Pour the filling into the crust. Cover, and refrigerate overnight.
- The next day (or when ready to serve), rim the edges with whipped cream and top with lime zest.
