The Best Homemade Key Lime Pie Recipe

Outshine summer heat with this zesty key lime pie, blending creamy sweetness and tangy citrus in a perfect no-bake delight. Discover the secret to irresistible flavor.

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What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Creamy, tangy, and perfectly sweet, this key lime pie is a revitalizing dessert that’s easy to make yet impressive to serve. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth filling, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.

  • Simple ingredients—just a handful of pantry staples come together for a fuss-free treat.
  • Bright, zesty flavor—the perfect balance of tart lime and sweet creaminess.
  • No-bake option—chill it in the fridge for a hassle-free dessert that still tastes amazing.

Recipe

no bake lime pie

Key lime pie is a classic dessert known for its tangy and sweet flavor, featuring a creamy filling made from key lime juice in a crisp graham cracker crust. This no-bake version is simple yet delivers the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, making it an invigorating treat for any occasion.

Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • ½ cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
  • 1 tbsp key lime zest (optional)
  • Whipped cream, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press firmly into a 9-inch pie dish to form the crust. Chill for 30 minutes.
  2. In another bowl, whisk egg yolks until smooth. Gradually add sweetened condensed milk, mixing well.
  3. Stir in key lime juice and zest (if using) until fully incorporated.
  4. Pour filling into the chilled crust and smooth the top. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
  5. Before serving, top with whipped cream and additional lime zest if desired.

Notes:

  • For a stronger lime flavor, add more zest.
  • If key limes are unavailable, regular lime juice can be substituted.

Equipment:

  • 9-inch pie dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Time:

  • Prep time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking time: 0 minutes (no-bake)
  • Chilling time: 4 hours

Cuisine: American

Serving: 8 slices

Nutrition

Key Lime Pie is a delightful dessert that combines tangy lime flavor with a sweet, creamy filling. Here’s the nutrition information per serving:

Calories: 320

Total Fat: 15g

Saturated Fat: 8g

Cholesterol: 80mg

Sodium: 200mg

Total Carbohydrates: 42g

Dietary Fiber: 1g

Sugars: 30g

Protein: 5g

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my key lime pie with something invigorating, like a cold glass of lemonade or iced tea, to balance the tangy sweetness. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream makes a creamy side that’s hard to resist. Trust me, these combos turn a simple dessert into something extra special.

Refreshing Beverage Pairings

When you’re enjoying a slice of tangy key lime pie, there’s nothing better than sipping on a drink that complements its bright, citrusy flavor. I love pairing it with a chilled glass of sparkling water infused with a squeeze of fresh lime—it’s light and invigorating. For something a bit fancier, try a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, which echoes the pie’s acidity. If you’re in the mood for non-alcoholic options, iced green tea with a hint of mint works beautifully. I’ve even enjoyed it with a creamy coconut latte—its subtle sweetness balances the tartness perfectly. Cheers!

Creamy Side Dishes

A creamy side dish can balance the tangy punch of a key lime pie, making your dessert spread feel complete. I love serving a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream—it’s simple but perfect. For something richer, try a silky coconut panna cotta or a mascarpone mousse with a hint of lime zest. If you’re feeling fancy, a buttermilk pudding adds a tangy twist that pairs well. My go-to is a no-churn vanilla bean ice cream—it’s easy to whip up and melts just right over each slice. Creamy sides make every bite even more dreamy!

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