Published September 19, 2025
Key Lime Pie
Key lime pie is a Florida Keys classic dating back to the late 1800s. Before refrigeration, fresh milk wasn’t widely available, so cooks relied on canned sweetened condensed milk, which gave rise to this tangy yet creamy dessert. Originally, the pie wasn’t even baked—the acidity of the lime juice thickened the filling on its own. Today, baking has become the norm, creating a more stable and velvety filling. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, this pie is as easy as it is iconic, earning its place as one of Florida’s most beloved desserts.
Key Ingredients for Classic Key Lime Pie
For the crust:
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1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (from crushed crackers or boxed)
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2 tablespoons light brown sugar
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6 tablespoons melted butter
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Pinch of salt
For the filling:
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1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
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½ cup key lime juice (fresh if possible, or bottled )
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1 tablespoon key lime zest (or regular lime zest if needed)
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4 large egg yolks
How to Prepare Key Lime Pie
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Make the crust: Stir graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, melted butter, and salt until combined. Press firmly into a 9-inch pie plate and bake briefly until set. Let it cool.
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Prepare the filling: Whisk together lime zest, egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, and lime juice until thickened.
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Assemble and bake: Pour the filling into the cooled crust and bake until mostly set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
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Chill thoroughly: Let the pie cool, then refrigerate for several hours before serving to allow the filling to set completely.
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Optional garnish: Add fresh whipped cream, lime zest, or thin lime slices before serving.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
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Make ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance, but add whipped cream the day of serving.
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Refrigerate: Loosely cover with plastic wrap and store for up to 3 days.
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Freeze: Freeze uncovered until solid, then wrap tightly and store for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Whip up this refreshing dessert and bring a little slice of the Florida Keys into your kitchen—perfect for gatherings or whenever you crave a tangy-sweet treat!
