Indulge in the tantalizing tartness of Key Lime Pie, a dessert that defies seasons and brings a refreshing zing to your taste palate. This easy-to-make recipe, curated by the brilliant Claire Saffitz from Dessert Person, focuses on simple pantry ingredients that culminate in an American classic dessert. Perfect for any occasion, this Key Lime Pie will leave you wondering why you don't make it more often!
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 6 ounces of graham crackers
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 egg yolk
For the filling:
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- Zest of Key limes (to taste, typically about 1 tablespoon)
- 1/2 cup Key lime juice (about 4-5 limes if using fresh)
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
Equipment:
- 9-inch pie plate (metal preferred)
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula or fork
- Measuring cup to press the crust
Instructions:
1. Begin by making the crust. Place the graham crackers in a plastic bag and crush them into fine crumbs. You should have a mixture of both fine and irregularly sized crumbs for texture. Transfer the crumbs to a mixing bowl.
2. Add the granulated sugar and kosher salt to the crumbs and mix well.
3. Pour in the melted unsalted butter and incorporate it thoroughly using a spatula or fork. When mixed, the consistency should resemble wet sand. Add the egg yolk to help bind the crust and mix until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to the 9-inch pie plate, pressing the crumbs to form an even layer on the bottom and up the sides of the plate. Use a measuring cup to press firmly and create a smooth surface.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
6. For the filling, combine the sweetened condensed milk, Key lime zest, Key lime juice, egg yolks, and vanilla extract in a bowl and whisk until smooth.
7. Pour the filling into the prepared crust and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the filling is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. Do not overbake.
8. Allow the pie to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until well chilled.
9. For the topping, beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until stiff peaks form. Finally, beat in the softened cream cheese ensuring it's fully incorporated and smooth.
10. Spread the whipped topping over the chilled pie, creating swirls and peaks with your spatula. Garnish with additional lime zest if desired.
11. Serve and enjoy the balance of sweet and tart that makes this Key Lime Pie truly special!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Cooking Tips:
- Using a measuring cup to press the crust ensures an even and firm base.
- Fresh Key lime juice is preferred for a more authentic flavor, but bottled juice can be substituted if Key limes are not available.
- For a more pronounced lime flavor, adjust the zest to your preference.
This recipe is attributed to the exceptionally talented chef and author Claire Saffitz x Dessert Person. Discover more delightful treats on their YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@CSaffitz
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