Authentic Florida Key Lime Pie Recipe: Best and Easy

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something magical about the taste of an authentic Florida key lime pie. With its creamy, tart filling and crunchy graham cracker crust, it brings a little sunshine from the Florida Keys straight to your kitchen. The perfect key lime pie uses fresh key lime juice for that signature tangy flavor that keeps you coming back for more.

A rustic kitchen counter with a freshly baked Florida key lime pie, surrounded by key limes and a vintage recipe card

I’ve experimented with various methods and ingredients, and I’m excited to share a tried-and-true recipe that’s both easy to follow and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, this recipe will transport you right to the heart of Florida.

Get ready to gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and soon you’ll be enjoying a slice of paradise. Trust me, this authentic Florida key lime pie will become a favorite in your dessert rotation.

Key Takeaways

  • Follow a simple ingredient list for an authentic taste.
  • Use fresh key lime juice for the best flavor.
  • Enjoy the easy-to-follow steps for a perfect pie every time.

Ingredient Breakdown

When making an authentic Florida Key Lime Pie, it’s vital to use fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Crust Ingredients

I always start with a graham cracker crust.

You’ll need about 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs, which come from roughly 10 full-sized graham crackers.

Crush them finely, then mix in about 1/3 cup of granulated sugar and 6 tablespoons of melted butter.

For an extra touch, some people like adding 1/4 cup of crushed pecans to the mix for added texture and flavor.

Once combined, press this mixture firmly into your pie pan and bake it for about 10 minutes at 350 degrees until it’s set. This gives the pie a sturdy base and a slightly toasted flavor that’s simply delicious.

Filling Ingredients

The filling is where the magic happens. Authentic Key Lime Pie filling requires fresh key lime juice.

About 1/2 to 2/3 cup of freshly squeezed juice is needed, which usually comes from 12-16 key limes.

In a mixing bowl, beat together 4 egg yolks with a can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk.

Then, slowly add the key lime juice while mixing until everything is well combined.

Adding a teaspoon of lime zest gives an extra burst of citrus flavor, making every bite bright and tangy.

Topping Ingredients

For the topping, I prefer freshly made whipped cream over meringue.

Using an electric mixer, beat 1 cup of heavy cream with 1/4 cup of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.

Some like adding a dash of vanilla extract for a rich flavor.

Spread this whipped cream over the cooled pie.

For the final touch, I sprinkle a bit more lime zest on top. It adds a refreshing look and an extra zing that perfectly balances the sweetness of the filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

A rustic kitchen counter with fresh key limes, a graham cracker crust, a mixing bowl, and a hand juicer

Making an authentic Florida key lime pie involves a few essential steps: preparing the crust, whipping the cream, assembling and baking the pie, and finally, chilling and serving it. Here’s how to do it all with ease and precision.

Preparing the Crust

First, I like to use a homemade graham cracker crust. It adds a wonderful texture and flavor.

In a 9-inch pie plate, I combined about 1 and 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs with 1/4 cup of sugar, and 6 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter.

I press the mixture firmly using the back of a measuring cup.

Then, I bake the crust at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes until it’s golden and sets nicely.

After baking, I let it cool completely on a wire rack. This step is crucial for getting that perfect firm base for the pie filling.

Whipping the Cream

For the topping, I prefer to make homemade whipped cream instead of using store-bought whipped topping.

I take 1 cup of cold heavy cream and beat it in a large bowl using an electric mixer on medium-high speed.

Gradually, I add 3 tablespoons of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.

I continue to beat until soft peaks form. Careful not to overbeat, as I want the cream to be light and airy. The homemade whipped cream pairs perfectly with the tartness of the key lime pie filling.

Assembling and Baking

Next, it’s time to prepare the filling and put everything together.

In a large bowl, I mix together 4 egg yolks, a can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk, and 2/3 cup of fresh-squeezed key lime juice.

I use a hand mixer on medium speed for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Then, I pour the filling into the pre-baked crust.

I smooth the top with a spatula and bake it at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 minutes, or until the filling sets.

After baking, I let the pie cool on a wire rack before moving it to the refrigerator.

Chilling and Serving

Chilling the pie is essential for getting the right texture.

I cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible.

This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

When it’s ready to serve, I top the pie with the homemade whipped cream.

Sometimes, I like to add a bit of lime zest on top for an extra burst of flavor and a touch of color. It’s the perfect finish to this classic key lime pie.

Authentic Florida Key Lime Pie Recipe
Print

Authentic Florida Key Lime Pie Recipe

Recipe by thisrecipelifeCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

8

servings
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes

This recipe captures the tart and sweet essence of a classic Florida Key Lime Pie, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • For the crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

  • For the filling:

  • 4 large egg yolks

  • 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk

  • 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice (about 15-20 key limes)

  • 1 tablespoon key lime zest

  • For the topping:

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream

  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

  • Prepare the crust:
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar.
  • Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  • Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
  • Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool completely on a wire rack.
  • Make the filling:
  • In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks until thickened and pale.
  • Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, whisking continuously until well combined.
  • Stir in the key lime juice and zest until fully incorporated.
  • Pour the filling into the cooled crust.
  • Bake the pie:
  • Bake the pie at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
  • Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
  • Refrigerate the pie for at least 3 hours, or overnight, to set.
  • Prepare the topping:
  • In a medium bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
  • Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie.
  • Serve:
  • Garnish with additional lime zest or slices, if desired.
  • Slice and serve cold.

Frequently Asked Questions

A rustic kitchen counter with fresh key limes, a graham cracker crust, and a creamy lime filling, surrounded by vintage recipe cards and a handwritten note with "authentic Florida key lime pie recipe" written on it

Here, I answer some common questions about making an authentic Florida Key lime pie. From ingredients to steps and special tips, I’ve got you covered.

What are the key ingredients for a traditional Key lime pie?

The key ingredients include Key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolks. Using fresh Key limes makes a big difference in flavor, and a graham cracker crust is usually preferred.

How can I make a Key lime pie without condensed milk?

You can substitute condensed milk with a mixture of heavy cream and sugar. This will provide the necessary sweetness and thickness. Mix until smooth and follow the rest of your usual recipe steps.

What sets an award-winning Key lime pie apart?

An award-winning pie often has a smooth, balanced filling that is not too tart or too sweet. The crust should be perfectly crisp, and the texture should be creamy. Fresh Key lime juice and zest offer the best flavor.

What are the steps to making Key lime pie from scratch?

First, prepare a graham cracker crust and bake it briefly.

Next, combine egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, and Key lime juice.

Pour the mixture into the crust and bake until set.

Cool completely, then chill in the refrigerator before serving.

Can cream cheese be used in a Key lime pie recipe, and how?

Yes, cream cheese can be used for a different twist.

Mix softened cream cheese with sweetened condensed milk, Key lime juice, and zest. This creates a richer, tangier filling.

Bake as usual or try a no-bake version by chilling it in the fridge.

What historical information is there about the original Key lime pie?

The original Key lime pie originated in Key West, Florida, in the late 19th century. Local sponge fishermen’s wives are believed to have invented it. They used the region’s abundant Key limes and sweetened condensed milk, which didn’t require refrigeration.

The traditional recipe has remained popular ever since.