Description
This Easy Key Lime Pie recipe offers a tangy and creamy dessert perfect for any occasion. Made with a prepared graham cracker crust and a luscious filling of sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, and fresh key lime juice, this pie is baked briefly and chilled to perfection. The addition of lime zest enhances the bright citrus flavor, making it a refreshing treat that’s simple to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 9-inch prepared graham cracker crust
Filling
- 2 14-ounce cans sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¾ cup key lime juice
- 1 tablespoon grated lime zest
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to warm it up for baking the pie.
- Mix the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, key lime juice, and grated lime zest. Whisk the mixture thoroughly until it is smooth and completely blended.
- Fill the crust: Pour the well-mixed filling evenly into the prepared 9-inch graham cracker crust, spreading it carefully so it covers the bottom evenly.
- Bake the pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 8 minutes. This short baking time helps the filling set without losing its creamy texture.
- Cool the pie: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to come to room temperature. Cooling helps the filling firm up slightly before chilling.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours to fully set the filling and enhance the flavors. Before serving, optionally top with whipped cream for an extra creamy touch.
Notes
- Use fresh key lime juice if available for the most authentic flavor; bottled juice works but freshness makes a big difference.
- A 9-inch graham cracker crust can be store-bought or homemade depending on your preference.
- Ensure not to overbake; the filling should just set and remain creamy, not dry out.
- Chilling the pie is essential to develop the proper consistency and flavor.
- For a decorative touch, garnish with additional lime zest or thin lime slices before serving.
