Experience True Florida Flavor with This Authentic Key Lime Pie Recipe

In the heart of Florida, there’s a dessert that epitomizes the state's vibrant culinary spirit – the Key Lime Pie. This quintessential Florida dessert, known for its tangy yet sweet flavor, is a must-try for anyone visiting the Sunshine State. The Key Lime Pie is more than just a treat; it's a slice of Florida's rich history and culture, beloved by locals and visitors alike.

Photo byLetisha - Dalle 3

The Story of Key Lime Pie

The Key Lime Pie has deep roots in the Florida Keys, where the small, tart Key limes thrive. According to legend, the first Key Lime Pie was created in Key West in the late 19th century. Its simplicity and delicious taste quickly made it a staple dessert. The pie’s distinctive flavor comes from the unique Key lime, smaller and more acidic than the common Persian lime, giving the pie its signature tang.

Recipe: Authentic Florida Key Lime Pie

Ingredients:

• For the Crust:
• • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• For the Filling:
• • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
  • ⅔ cup fresh Key lime juice (from about 24-36 Key limes)
  • 1 tablespoon Key lime zest
• For the Topping:
• • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:
2. • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Mix the graham cracker crumbs and sugar in a bowl.
   • Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
   • Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
   • Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool completely on a wire rack.
3. Make the Filling:
4. • In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with an electric mixer until thickened and pale.
   • Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, mixing continuously until well combined.
   • Stir in the Key lime juice and zest until fully incorporated.
   • Pour the filling into the cooled crust.
5. Bake the Pie:
6. • Bake the pie at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set.
   • Let the pie cool on a wire rack before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
7. Prepare the Topping:
8. • In a bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
   • Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie.
   • Garnish with additional lime zest if desired.

The Final Slice

A slice of Key Lime Pie is not just a dessert; it’s a taste of Florida’s history and a reflection of the state’s tropical bounty. Whether enjoyed after a meal of fresh seafood or on its own, this pie embodies the sunny, laid-back vibes of the Florida Keys. Its creamy, tangy filling and crisp graham cracker crust make every bite a delightful experience.

Enjoy this classic pie as a tribute to Florida's culinary heritage, and savor the refreshing taste that has made Key Lime Pie a beloved favorite for generations.

Sources:

Family Recipe