The sweet and tangy flavors of key lime pie are a match made in heaven. This classic dessert has been a staple for decades, and its popularity shows no signs of waning. With its bright green color and burst of citrus flavor, it’s easy to see why key lime pie is a crowd-pleaser. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a culinary newcomer, we’ve got you covered with 18 simple and delicious key lime pie recipes.
From classic pies to no-bake versions, graham cracker crusts to vegan and gluten-free options, there’s something for everyone in this collection. So why wait? Dive into the world of key lime pie and discover a new favorite dessert today!
Classic Simple Key Lime Pie
This classic Key lime pie recipe is a timeless dessert that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings or any occasion when you want to serve something bright and citrusy. With just a few ingredients, you can create a creamy, tangy pie that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Pour in melted butter and stir until combined.
3. Press mixture into a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Whisk together egg yolks and key lime juice. Pour into crust.
5. Bake for 15 minutes, then chill for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Top with whipped cream before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
No-Bake Simple Key Lime Pie
A refreshing dessert perfect for warm weather, this no-bake key lime pie is a delightful twist on the classic recipe. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a tangy and sweet treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Whipped cream and lime zest for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
2. Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture is evenly moistened.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks and key lime juice until well combined.
5. Fold in the heavy cream until smooth.
6. Pour the filling over the crust and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
7. Garnish with whipped cream and lime zest, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This no-bake pie is ready when you are.
Simple Key Lime Pie with Graham Cracker Crust
This classic recipe combines the brightness of key lime juice with the crunch of graham cracker crust, making for a simple yet impressive dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened.
3. Press the crust mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and key lime juice until smooth.
6. Pour the filling into the baked crust and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes or until the filling is set.
7. Allow the pie to cool before serving with whipped cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 23-28 minutes
Vegan Simple Key Lime Pie
This refreshing vegan key lime pie is a perfect treat for warm weather or anytime you crave a tangy and sweet dessert. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and creamy pie that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (gluten-free)
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
– 3 large egg replacers (such as flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water)
– 1/2 cup unsweetened soy milk or other non-dairy milk
– 2 tablespoons key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crust ingredients and press into a 9-inch pie dish.
3. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together filling ingredients until smooth.
5. Pour filling mixture into the baked crust and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes or until set.
6. Allow to cool before serving. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: approximately 25-30 minutes
Gluten-Free Simple Key Lime Pie
Brighten up your dessert menu with this refreshing gluten-free key lime pie, perfect for warm weather or any time you crave a tangy treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour and sugar.
3. Add melted butter, egg yolks, key lime juice, and lime zest. Whisk until smooth.
4. Pour into a pre-baked gluten-free pie crust or a graham cracker crust (gluten-free option: use a gluten-free crust mix).
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until filling is set and edges are lightly golden.
6. Allow to cool completely before serving.
7. Top with whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Mini Simple Key Lime Pies
Mini Simple Key Lime Pies: A Bite-Sized Treat with Big Flavor
These individual key lime pies are the perfect dessert for a party or special occasion. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create these mini masterpieces in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lime zest
– Whipped cream or lime wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined.
3. Press mixture into the bottom of mini muffin tin cups.
4. Bake crusts for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks and key lime juice until smooth.
6. Pour mixture into baked crusts and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until filling is set.
7. Allow pies to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve warm with whipped cream or a sprinkle of lime zest, if desired.
Simple Key Lime Pie Bars
Brighten up your dessert menu with these sweet and tangy bars that capture the essence of key lime pie. A shortbread crust, a creamy filling, and a burst of citrus flavor make this recipe a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Press the dough into the prepared baking dish.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, key lime juice, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the filling over the crust and smooth out.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Simple Key Lime Pie Cheesecake
A refreshing twist on traditional cheesecakes, this Simple Key Lime Pie Cheesecake combines the tanginess of key lime with the creaminess of a classic cheesecake.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, separated
– 1/2 cup key lime juice
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients until combined. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in key lime juice and vanilla extract.
5. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Simple Key Lime Pie Parfaits
These layered parfaits are a refreshing twist on traditional key lime pie, perfect for warm weather gatherings or everyday treats. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying the sweet and tangy combination in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 cup crushed graham crackers
– 1 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
– Whipped cream and additional key lime zest for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt, heavy cream, key lime juice, and honey until smooth.
2. Layer the parfait by starting with a tablespoon of crushed graham crackers, followed by a spoonful of the yogurt mixture, then mixed berries.
3. Repeat steps 1-2 two more times, finishing with a layer of yogurt on top.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Top with whipped cream and additional key lime zest, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is best served chilled, so prepare ahead of time or keep it in the fridge until serving.
Simple Key Lime Pie with Whipped Cream Topping
This classic dessert is a refreshing twist on traditional pie, perfect for warm weather gatherings or everyday treats. With its tangy key lime filling and fluffy whipped cream topping, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– Powdered sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients until well combined. Press into a 9-inch pie dish.
3. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and key lime juice until smooth. Pour into baked crust.
5. Bake for an additional 15-18 minutes or until filling is set.
6. Allow pie to cool completely before topping with whipped cream.
Whipped Cream Topping:
1. Beat heavy whipping cream in a chilled bowl until soft peaks form.
2. Add powdered sugar (optional) and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
Cooking Time: 23-25 minutes
Simple Key Lime Pie with Meringue
A classic dessert that’s perfect for warm weather, this simple key lime pie is a refreshing treat that’s easy to make and impressive to serve.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 tsp grated lime zest
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Meringue topping (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until combined. Press mixture into a 9-inch pie dish.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks and key lime juice until smooth. Add grated lime zest and whisk until combined.
4. Pour filling into prepared pie crust and bake for 15 minutes.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
6. Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Spread over cooled pie.
Meringue Topping:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread over pie and bake at 350°F for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown.
Simple Key Lime Pie Ice Cream
A refreshing twist on the classic key lime pie, this ice cream combines the tangy flavors of key lime juice and condensed milk with a smooth and creamy texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup key lime juice
– 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until dissolved.
2. Add in the key lime juice and sweetened condensed milk. Whisk until fully incorporated.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and place in the freezer to harden for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None
Freezing Time: 2 hours or overnight
Simple Key Lime Pie Smoothie
Brighten up your day with this refreshing and tangy smoothie that captures the essence of key lime pie!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon grated lime zest
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
3. Blend again until the ice is fully incorporated.
4. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and go!
Enjoy your delicious and revitalizing Simple Key Lime Pie Smoothie!
Simple Key Lime Pie Cupcakes
Brighten up your day with these tangy and sweet Key Lime Pie Cupcakes! These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Add key lime juice, vanilla extract, and dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (optional).
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Simple Key Lime Pie Cookies
These chewy cookies capture the bright and citrusy flavor of key lime pie in a convenient cookie form. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, these treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon key lime zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Stir in key lime zest, juice, and salt.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Simple Key Lime Pie Dip
A tangy and refreshing twist on traditional dip recipes, this simple key lime pie dip is perfect for snacking, entertaining, or as a topping for your favorite treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whipped topping
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until combined.
3. Add the key lime juice, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
4. Fold in the whipped topping until no white streaks remain.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This dip is best served chilled, so keep it in the fridge until ready to serve.
Simple Key Lime Pie Tartlets
These bite-sized tartlets are perfect for a party or as a sweet treat to brighten up your day. With their shortcrust pastry crust, creamy key lime filling, and a touch of sweetness, they’re sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into 12 equal pieces.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sugar, key lime juice, and egg yolks until smooth. Add melted butter and mix well.
4. Place a spoonful of the filling mixture onto one half of each pastry piece, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
5. Fold other half over filling to form a triangle or a square shape. Press edges together to seal.
6. Place tartlets on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Simple Key Lime Pie Pudding
This refreshing dessert is a twist on the classic key lime pie, condensed into a creamy and tangy pudding that’s perfect for warm weather. With just a few ingredients and no baking required, it’s an easy treat to whip up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cream, milk, and sugar until dissolved.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 170°F to 180°F (71°C to 82°C).
3. Remove from heat and stir in the egg yolks, key lime juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Strain the pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the tangy sweetness of key lime pie! This article features 18 easy and simple recipes that will satisfy your cravings. From classic pies to no-bake alternatives, vegan and gluten-free options, and even mini and bar versions, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a dessert enthusiast or just looking for a quick treat, these recipes are sure to impress. With ingredients like lime juice, condensed milk, and graham crackers, you’ll be whipping up a pie (or two) in no time.
