The History of Key Lime Pie: Florida’s Most Famous Dessert.
Few desserts are as iconic as Key Lime Pie, a sweet yet tangy treat that has become Florida’s signature dessert. But where did it come from? And why is it so beloved? The history of Key Lime Pie is as rich and flavorful as the pie itself!
Key Lime Pie is believed to have originated in the Florida Keys in the late 1800s. At the time, fresh milk and refrigeration were hard to come by, so cooks relied on canned sweetened condensed milk—a key ingredient still used today.
Who made the first Key Lime Pie? Many credit Florida sponge fishermen and Key West locals, who mixed Key lime juice, eggs, and condensed milk to create a simple, no-bake pie that “cooked” naturally from the acidity of the limes.
In the 1930s, Aunt Sally, the cook for millionaire William Curry, was said to have perfected the first “official” Key Lime Pie recipe.
By the 1940s, baking became standard to set the filling and ensure food safety.🏆 In 2006, Key Lime Pie was declared Florida’s official state pie!
True Key Lime Pie is made with real Key limes, not regular Persian limes. The crust is traditionally graham cracker-based, and toppings range from whipped cream to meringue.
Whether enjoyed at a Key West café or homemade in your kitchen, Key Lime Pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a Florida tradition that has stood the test of time!
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.