Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10–12 full sheets)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cans (14 ounces each) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup Key lime juice (freshly squeezed or bottled)
- 1 tablespoon Key lime zest
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture looks like wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to ensure the crust is even and compact. Bake the crust for 8 to 10 minutes until it is lightly golden and fragrant. Set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the four egg yolks with the lime zest until they are well combined. Gradually pour in both cans of sweetened condensed milk, whisking constantly until smooth. Finally, stir in the Key lime juice. The acidity of the juice will react with the milk and yolks, causing the mixture to thicken naturally. Continue whisking until the filling is completely uniform and silky.
- Pour the lime mixture into the pre-baked graham cracker crust. Smooth the top with a spatula. Place the pie back into the oven and bake for 15 minutes. You are looking for the edges to be set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan. Do not let the top brown. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the custard to set firmly.
- Just before serving, place the chilled heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a cold mixing bowl. Beat on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Pipe or spread the whipped cream over the chilled pie. Garnish with extra lime zest or thin lime slices for a beautiful professional finish. Slice and serve immediately.
- Cook Time: 35 minutes