Key Lime Pie Recipe

### **Instructions:**

#### **Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust**
The crust is the foundation of any good Key Lime Pie, and this one is as easy as it gets. To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

1. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is evenly coated and has a sandy texture.

2. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. You can use the back of a spoon to press it down firmly, ensuring the crust is compact.

3. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and slightly set. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

#### **Step 2: Make the Lime Filling**
Now for the tangy, creamy filling that makes Key Lime Pie so irresistible.

1. In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they’re smooth and pale in color.

2. Add the sweetened condensed milk to the yolks and whisk until fully combined. The sweetened condensed milk will create a rich, velvety texture in the filling.

3. Stir in the fresh lime juice and lime zest (if using). The acidity from the lime juice will thicken the mixture slightly, creating that perfect creamy texture.

4. Pour the filling into the cooled graham cracker crust. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even coverage.

#### **Step 3: Bake the Pie**
Bake the pie at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, just enough time for the filling to set. The pie should have a slight jiggle in the center when you shake it, but it will firm up as it cools.

Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to the fridge. Let it chill for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up.

#### **Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream Topping**
A Key Lime Pie isn’t complete without a generous dollop of whipped cream on top. Here’s how to make it:

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until soft peaks form.

2. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue beating until stiff peaks form. The whipped cream should be thick and hold its shape.

3. Once the pie is fully chilled, spread the whipped cream over the top of the pie, creating a decorative swirl or just a simple, smooth layer.

#### **Step 5: Serve and Enjoy**
Now for the best part: the moment of truth! Slice the pie into wedges and serve chilled. The creamy, tart filling with the perfectly crunchy crust and the cloud-like whipped cream will make your taste buds sing. Garnish with a slice of lime or a few lime zest curls for an extra pop of color and flavor, if you like.

### **Pro Tips for the Perfect Key Lime Pie:**

– **Use fresh key limes**: If you can get your hands on fresh key limes, do it! They have a distinct, slightly sweeter flavor that sets this pie apart. However, if key limes are hard to find, regular limes work just as well.

– **Don’t overbake**: You want the pie to be set, but don’t bake it for too long. Overbaking can cause the filling to crack, so stick to the recommended bake time and keep an eye on it.

– **Chill for maximum flavor**: This pie tastes best when it’s well-chilled. Make sure to give it time in the fridge before serving for the most refreshing and smooth experience.

– **Whip the cream just before serving**: While it’s tempting to make the whipped cream ahead of time, it’s best to whip it just before serving to ensure it’s fresh and airy.

### **Conclusion**

There’s no denying that Key Lime Pie is the perfect combination of tart, sweet, and creamy goodness. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy a craving for something refreshing, this simple yet flavorful recipe will become a go-to dessert in your kitchen. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a velvety lime filling, and a light, fluffy whipped cream topping, each bite is a tropical escape.

So, grab some limes, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a slice of this classic dessert—because life’s a little sweeter with a Key Lime Pie on your table!