Indulge in the tangy sweetness of Key Lime Pie with this detailed recipe. This classic dessert features a smooth and creamy filling with a hint of refreshing lime flavor, all nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust. Follow these steps to create your own delicious Key Lime Pie at home.

Ingredients:

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/4 cup granulated sugar

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Key Lime Filling:

1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk

4 large egg yolks

1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice (regular lime juice can be used as a substitute)

1 tablespoon finely grated key lime zest (optional)

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

1 cup heavy cream, chilled

2 tablespoons powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Additional lime zest or lime slices, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when pressed with your fingers.
3. Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared pie dish to form the crust.
4. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
5. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, key lime juice, and key lime zest (if using) until smooth and well combined.
6. Pour the lime filling into the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it out evenly.
7. Return the pie to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
8. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or overnight to chill and set.
9. Before serving, prepare the whipped cream topping. In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
10. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie.
11. If desired, garnish the Key Lime Pie with additional lime zest or slices for a decorative touch.
12. Slice the pie into wedges and serve chilled. Enjoy the creamy, tangy goodness of Key Lime Pie!

Suggested Pairing:

Serve slices of Key Lime Pie with a dollop of whipped cream and a wedge of fresh lime for a delightful contrast of flavors. Enjoy alongside a cup of hot or iced coffee for a perfect dessert pairing.