Name: Best Key Lime Pie Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 17 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 6 tbsp butter, melted; 28 oz sweetened condensed milk; 1/2 cup light sour cream; 3/4 cup key lime juice; Zest from 2 regular limes or 4 key limes; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 77 reviews

If you have a soft spot for desserts that balance tartness and sweetness flawlessly, then this Best Key Lime Pie Recipe is going to steal your heart. Imagine biting into a creamy, velvety filling, bursting with fresh key lime flavor, perfectly nestled in a buttery, crunchy graham cracker crust. This pie is not just any pie—it’s a celebration of sunshine in every slice, easy enough for even a beginner baker to master and impressive enough to be the star of any gathering. Once you try this Best Key Lime Pie Recipe, I’m certain it will become your go-to dessert for every special occasion and casual get-together.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A slice of key lime pie on a white plate with a swirly pattern, showing three layers: a thick, crumbly brown crust at the bottom, a smooth pale yellow filling in the middle, and a fluffy white whipped cream topping with green lime zest sprinkled on it; a spoon holding a small piece of the pie rests on the plate, and a woman's hand is just visible holding the spoon; the plate sits on a white marbled surface with a green-patterned cloth partially under the plate and a lime slice in the top left corner photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this pie lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavor and texture. Each component plays an essential role, from the crispy, sweet base to the luscious, tangy filling, capped off with a light, fluffy topping.

Graham cracker crumbs: Provide a sweet, crunchy base that contrasts beautifully with the smooth filling.
Granulated sugar: Balances the tartness while adding a touch of sweetness to the crust.
Butter, melted: Binds the crust crumbs together and gives a rich, buttery flavor.
Sweetened condensed milk: Adds creamy sweetness that gives the filling its signature silky texture.
Light sour cream: Adds a slight tanginess and smooths out the filling for richness.
Key lime juice: The star ingredient that gives this pie its bright, fresh tartness.
Lime zest: Amplifies the citrus flavor with fragrant oils right from the rind.
Heavy whipping cream: Whipped into perfect peaks to create a light, airy topping.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream without graininess.
Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, comforting note to the topping’s flavor profile.

How to Make Best Key Lime Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F. Mixing the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl is as simple as it sounds, but this mixture is essential to the crunchy foundation of your pie. Once combined, press the mixture firmly into your pie pan. Baking it for just 7 minutes sets the crust perfectly, and allowing it to cool ensures it holds up under the creamy filling without sogginess.

Step 2: Make the Key Lime Filling

Lower your oven temperature to 350°F for the filling. Whisk together sweetened condensed milk, light sour cream, fresh key lime juice, and zest until the mixture comes together as a creamy, tangy dream. Pour this luscious filling over your cooled crust, then bake for 10 minutes. This brief baking time lets the filling set just right—silky with a slight jiggle, promising that iconic smoothness synonymous with the Best Key Lime Pie Recipe.

Step 3: Chill the Pie

Cooling the pie after baking is crucial. Let it cool at room temperature just for a bit, then transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours. This chilling step thickens the filling and deepens those vibrant lime flavors, so patience here means maximum deliciousness.

Step 4: Whip the Cream Topping

While the pie chills, whip together heavy cream and powdered sugar until you see stiff peaks form, then beat in vanilla extract. This whipped cream topping adds a sweet, airy contrast to the tangy filling. Spread or pipe it lovingly over the pie before serving, adding extra lime zest on top for a fresh, colorful finish.

How to Serve Best Key Lime Pie Recipe

A glass pie dish contains a three-layer dessert with a crumbly golden brown crust forming the base and sides. The middle layer is smooth, pale yellow with small green lime zest pieces scattered on top. Around the edge of the dessert, there are evenly spaced dollops of white whipped cream, each with a soft, swirled texture. This is set on a white marbled surface, and a silver utensil with a worn handle lies nearby on the right. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding garnishes to your Key Lime Pie can elevate its presentation and flavor. A sprinkle of fresh lime zest brightens the look and taste, while a few thin lime slices or even a handful of zest strips arranged artfully can make it look as gorgeous as it tastes. For an extra touch, a few toasted coconut flakes or a light dusting of graham cracker crumbs can add texture and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs wonderfully with fresh berries, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a dollop of extra whipped cream on the side. These simple accompaniments complement the pie’s tartness without overpowering it. For a refreshing twist, serve alongside a chilled mojito or sparkling water with lime slices to echo that citrusy vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to wow your guests, try serving individual mini Key Lime Pies in mason jars or small dessert glasses layered with crust crumbs, filling, and whipped cream. Another fun idea is to drizzle a bit of passion fruit syrup or raspberry coulis over slices for a colorful pop and an added tangy dimension. No matter how you plate it, the Best Key Lime Pie Recipe always shines through with its creamy, zesty brilliance.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Key Lime Pie should be kept refrigerated, covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from absorbing fridge odors. Stored this way, it stays fresh and maintains its texture for up to 3 days. It’s honestly rare to have leftovers because it’s that irresistible.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, it’s best to freeze individual slices wrapped well in plastic and then foil to protect against freezer burn. Freeze for up to 1 month. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Keep in mind that the whipped cream topping might lose its texture after freezing, so it’s best to add fresh whipped cream after thawing.

Reheating

This pie is best served chilled, so reheating is not recommended. But if you do want to bring the pie to room temperature before serving, just let it sit out for 20-30 minutes. This slight warming will enhance the flavors without compromising the smooth filling or crisp crust.

FAQs

Can I use regular lime juice instead of key lime juice?

Absolutely! While key limes give the pie its signature tangy and floral flavor, regular lime juice can be used as a substitute. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Do I have to bake the pie?

The baking step helps the filling set and develop a silky texture. While some recipes make a no-bake version, this one’s gentle bake is what truly sets the Best Key Lime Pie Recipe apart.

Can I make this pie gluten-free?

Yes! Just substitute gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or use a nut-based crust, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy.

What if I don’t have sour cream?

You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt, which will add a similar tang and creaminess to the filling without changing the flavor much.

How long does the pie need to chill?

Chilling for at least 3 hours is essential to allow the filling to firm up and the flavors to meld beautifully. Overnight chilling is even better for maximum flavor.

Final Thoughts

It’s hard to overstate how this Best Key Lime Pie Recipe brings pure joy in every forkful. Easy, quick, and boasting vibrant citrus flavor surrounded by luscious creaminess, this pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a festive occasion, I’m confident it will become one of your favorite desserts to make and share time and again. Don’t wait—grab your ingredients and treat yourself to a slice of sunshine today!