How to Make Authentic Key Lime Pie with Real Key Limes.
If you’ve ever had real Key Lime Pie, you know there’s nothing quite like it. The smooth, tangy filling, the buttery graham cracker crust, and the light, fluffy topping create a perfect balance of flavors.
Unlike regular Persian limes, Key limes are smaller, more aromatic, and have a bolder, tangier flavor. Their juice gives this pie its signature citrus punch, making it the only way to achieve true authenticity.
Ingredients for the Perfect Pie🥧 For the Crust:✔️ 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs✔️ ¼ cup sugar✔️ 6 tbsp melted butter
For the Filling:✔️ 4 large egg yolks✔️ 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk✔️ ½ cup fresh-squeezed Key lime juice (about 12–15 Key limes)✔️ 1 tsp Key lime zest
For the Topping:✔️ 1 cup heavy whipping cream✔️ 2 tbsp powdered sugar✔️ ½ tsp vanilla extract
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch pie pan and bake for 10 minutes.
Prepare the filling: Whisk egg yolks and condensed milk, then add fresh Key lime juice and zest. Pour into the cooled crust.
Bake for 15 minutes, then let cool at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours for the best texture.
4️⃣ Whip cream, sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form. Spread or pipe onto the chilled pie.