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Key Lime Pie Recipe

4.2 from 67 reviews

This easy no-bake Key Lime Pie features a buttery graham cracker crust and a creamy, tangy filling made with cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, and fresh key lime juice. Perfectly chilled for at least 4 hours, this refreshing dessert is topped with whipped cream and lime zest or slices for a delightful finish.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • ½ cup key lime juice
  • 1 tsp lime zest
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream)

Topping (optional):

  • Whipped cream
  • Lime zest
  • Thin lime slices

Instructions

  1. Make the crust: Stir together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture is well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish to form an even crust. Place in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the filling.
  2. Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy using an electric mixer. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, mixing continuously until fully incorporated. Add the key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract, then mix until creamy and smooth.
  3. Fold in the whipped topping: Gently fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula to maintain a light and airy texture.
  4. Assemble the pie: Pour the filling evenly into the chilled graham cracker crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Cover the pie with plastic wrap or a lid.
  5. Chill and set: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to set properly.
  6. Add the finishing touches: Before serving, top the pie with additional whipped cream and garnish with lime zest or thin lime slices for an attractive presentation. Slice and enjoy your refreshing Key Lime Pie!

Notes

  • For best results, chill the pie overnight to ensure it sets firmly.
  • You can substitute key lime juice with regular lime juice if key limes are unavailable, though the flavor will be slightly different.
  • Homemade whipped cream can be used as an alternative to store-bought whipped topping.
  • Press the crust firmly to avoid crumbling when slicing.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Key Lime Pie,no-bake pie,graham cracker crust,cream cheese pie,sweetened condensed milk,pie dessert,summertime dessert,quick dessert