Key Lime Pie: A Refreshing Classic Dessert

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press into Pan: Press the crumb mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish, forming an even layer.
Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, key lime zest, and egg yolks until smooth and fully combined.
Pour into Crust: Pour the filling into the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it out evenly.
Bake the Pie: Bake the pie at 350°F (175°C) for 15-18 minutes, or until the filling is just set. The center should still have a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pie dish.
Cool the Pie: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to fully set.

Step 3: Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping

Whip the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form.
Top the Pie: Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie. You can cover the entire pie or just add dollops around the edges.
Garnish: For a final touch, garnish the pie with slices of key lime or a sprinkle of key lime zest.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once the pie is fully chilled and topped, it’s ready to serve. Slice and enjoy the refreshing and tangy flavors of this classic Key Lime Pie.

Use Fresh Key Limes: If possible, use fresh key limes for the best flavor. They’re smaller and more tart than regular limes, giving the pie its signature taste.
Chill Time is Key: Be sure to chill the pie for at least 2 hours before serving to ensure the filling is set and the flavors are well-developed.
Make Ahead: Key Lime Pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just wait to add the whipped cream topping until you’re ready to serve.