Florida Balm

Easy Key West key lime recipe

Super Easy Key West Key Lime Pie Recipe

Looking for a dessert that captures the tropical charm of the Florida Keys? This Key West Key Lime Pie Recipe is as simple as it is delicious. Creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of sweet, it’s the perfect way to bring a slice of paradise to your table. 

With easy-to-follow instructions and a handful of ingredients, this recipe is foolproof—even for beginner bakers!

CK author

by Christa Kelly | Updated 11/19/24
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How Long Does It Take?

This Super Easy Key West Key Lime Pie Recipe takes about 30 minutes of active prep time and 15 minutes of baking time, plus at least 2 hours of chilling for the pie to fully set.

Time-Saving Tips

  • Use a store-bought graham cracker crust to skip the crust-making step.
  • Opt for bottled Key Lime juice if you’re short on time (though fresh juice gives the best flavor).
  • Leave off the whipped cream OR buy a can or tub of whipped cream
  • Prepare the pie the night before so it’s ready to serve the next day!

Ingredients

Get ready to whip up your Key West classic with these simple ingredients:

For the Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10–12 crackers)
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
  • ½ cup freshly squeezed Key Lime juice (about 10–12 Key Limes or 3–4 regular limes)
  • 1 teaspoon Key Lime zest (optional, for extra zesty flavor)

For Topping (Optional):

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • OR you can cheat this part with a can or tub of whipped cream

Easy Instructions

Follow these steps to create your own Key West Key Lime Pie:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a mixing bowl. Stir until evenly coated and crumbly.
  3. Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish, forming an even layer across the bottom and sides. Use the back of a spoon or a flat measuring cup to smooth it out.
  4. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool while you make the filling.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

 

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk until creamy.
  2. Slowly add the Key Lime juice and zest, whisking constantly. The mixture will slightly thicken.
  3. Pour the filling into the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 3: Bake the Pie

 

  1. Bake the pie at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, or until the filling is set but slightly wobbly in the center.
  2. Allow the pie to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.

Step 4: Add the Whipped Cream Topping (Optional)

 

  1. In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
  2. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the pie just before serving.

    or you can cheat and use a store-bought can or tub of whipped cream… and don’t forget a slice of key lime and some key lime zest (shaved bits from the peel) for bright garnish!

More Key Lime Recipes, Growing Tips, Fun Key Lime Products and More!

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CK author

Hi! I’m Christa Kelly, born and raised in Florida. My favorite vacations are staycations especially with my kids and family. We love exploring everything Florida: places, history, attractions, events… and sharing with you!