Key Lime Pie – Tangy, Creamy & Incredibly Easy to Make

Key lime pie isn’t just a dessert-it’s a statement. It’s bright, refreshing, and effortlessly impressive. And if your goal is to make a show-stopping pie that’s easy to pull off, uses just a few ingredients, and works every single time, this recipe is for you.

If you’re drawn to citrus-forward flavors, you’ll also love citrusy drinks like the blood orange cardamom spritzer or refreshing sips like the sparkling honey citrus cooler-both perfect pairings for this pie on a summer dessert table.

With a crisp graham cracker crust and a creamy, citrusy filling, this pie checks every box. No water bath. No fussy techniques. Just stir, pour, and bake. It chills beautifully, slices cleanly, and brings just the right balance of sweet and tart in every bite.

Whether you’re prepping for a holiday dessert table, a summer dinner party, or just want to master a classic you can always count on, this pie brings real results. It’s approachable enough for beginners, impressive enough for guests, and flexible enough to be made a day in advance.

And if you’re a fan of easy, creamy showstoppers, desserts like the no-bake cannoli pie or make-ahead favorites like our strawberry cheesecake French toast bake are perfect additions to your lineup.

So if you’re looking for a dessert that delivers both flavor and ease-this is the recipe to save, print, and repeat. Because making a great dessert shouldn’t be hard. It should be deliciously simple.

💡 One bowl. One crust. One chilled, creamy slice of citrus heaven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Key lime pie is a keeper-for good reason. Here’s what makes it a standout:

✔️ Just 7 Ingredients

Simple pantry staples + citrus = an elegant dessert with very little effort.

✔️ No Fancy Equipment

Just a bowl, a whisk, and a pie dish. No stand mixer or water bath needed.

✔️ Bright, Tangy Flavor

Key lime juice brings real citrus zing, balanced with just enough sweetness for a creamy, dreamy bite.

✔️ Perfect Make-Ahead Dessert

It needs to chill before slicing, so it’s a dream for prepping ahead of time.

✔️ That Buttery Graham Cracker Crust

Crunchy, toasty, and golden-it’s the perfect contrast to the smooth filling.

💡 Pro Tip – For the best flavor, use bottled Key lime juice (like Nellie & Joe’s) if you can’t find fresh Key limes. It’s the secret ingredient of Florida pie shops everywhere.

Ingredients

 

For the Crust

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets)

• ⅓ cup granulated sugar

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

• 4 large egg yolks

• ½ cup Key lime juice (fresh or bottled)

• 1 tbsp lime zest (optional, for extra zing)

For Topping (Optional but Recommended)

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• 2 tbsp powdered sugar

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

• Lime zest or thin slices for garnish

Instructions

This Key lime pie keeps things simple-just mix, bake, and chill. It’s the kind of dessert that comes together effortlessly and always delivers that fresh, citrusy payoff.

1️⃣ Preheat & Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a medium bowl, combine 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs, ⅓ cup sugar, and 6 tablespoons melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly moistened and the texture resembles wet sand.

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish, using the bottom of a measuring cup or glass to smooth and pack it tightly.

💡 Pro Tip – A firm press means your crust stays together after slicing.

Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden and fragrant. Let it cool slightly while you make the filling.

2️⃣ Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

• 4 large egg yolks

• ½ cup Key lime juice

• Optional: 1 tablespoon lime zest for added brightness

Whisk until fully combined and slightly thickened. The mixture should be smooth and pale yellow.

💡 Pro Tip – Use bottled Key lime juice (like Nellie & Joe’s) if you can’t find fresh Key limes-it’s a favorite for a reason.

3️⃣ Bake the Pie

Pour the filling into the pre-baked crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake for 15–17 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. It will finish setting as it cools.

Remove from oven and cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then transfer to the fridge to chill for at least 3–4 hours (or overnight).

💡 Pro Tip – A longer chill gives you cleaner slices and a firmer texture.

4️⃣ Whip the Topping (Optional but so good)

In a chilled bowl, combine:

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Whip with a hand mixer or whisk until soft peaks form. This can be made ahead and piped or dolloped on top just before serving.

5️⃣ Garnish & Serve

Top the pie with whipped cream, lime zest, or thin lime slices.

Slice with a warm knife for clean cuts, and serve chilled.

Recipe Variations

This pie has all the bones of a classic-but you can definitely have fun with it:

🔸 Coconut Key Lime Pie

Add ¼ cup shredded coconut to the crust or sprinkle on top of the whipped cream for a tropical touch.

Perfect for: warm-weather dinners or beach-themed parties.

🔸 Mini Key Lime Pies

Make individual pies using a muffin tin and paper liners. Same crust, same filling-bake for just 10–12 minutes.

Perfect for: parties, buffets, or portion control (in theory).

🔸 Meringue-Topped

Skip the whipped cream and top with a toasted meringue instead. A fluffy, marshmallowy finish that elevates the whole experience.

Perfect for: holidays or show-stopper dessert moments.

🔸 Gingersnap Crust

Swap graham crackers for crushed gingersnaps for extra spice and warmth in the base.

Perfect for: fall and winter citrus bakes.

🔸 Vegan Key Lime Pie

Use coconut milk condensed milk and a plant-based crust. It’s creamy and citrusy-without the dairy or eggs.

Perfect for: dairy-free dessert lovers.

💡 Pro Tip – Freeze the whole pie and slice it chilled like an icebox dessert. Dreamy for summer heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Because you’ve got questions, and this pie has answers:

Can I use regular limes instead of Key limes❓

Yes! Regular Persian limes work just fine. It’ll be slightly less tart, but still delicious.

Do I need to bake the pie❓

Yes-for safety and texture, the egg yolks need to be gently baked to set the custard properly.

Can I make it ahead of time❓

Absolutely. This pie is best when it’s had time to chill, so making it a day ahead is ideal.

How do I store leftovers❓

Keep covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. The crust may soften slightly, but it’ll still be delicious.

Can I freeze Key lime pie❓

Yes! Wrap well and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Conclusion – A Dessert That’s Bright, Beautiful, and Built to Impress

This Key lime pie isn’t just a feel-good dessert-it’s a go-to solution. It checks every box: simple ingredients, low effort, make-ahead friendly, and undeniably delicious. From the zesty citrus filling to the buttery graham cracker crust, every bite delivers that refreshing balance of tart and sweet.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests without stress, bring something bright to the table during citrus season, or simply treat yourself with a chilled, creamy slice that tastes like sunshine-this pie delivers. Every time.

It’s the kind of dessert that rewards you with flavor, not effort. No complicated steps, no special tools-just the kind of results that make people ask, “Can I get that recipe?”

💡 Because baking can be simple. And dessert can be stunning-without ever being complicated.

Print