As the summer months approach, our thoughts turn to refreshing desserts that can help beat the heat. And what’s more iconic than a classic key lime pie? With its tangy, citrusy flavor and velvety texture, it’s a perfect treat for hot days spent lounging by the pool or at the beach. But why stick to just one recipe when you can try a dozen different variations? From creamy no-bake pies to fruity tartlets, we’ve gathered 18 of the most scrumptious key lime pie recipes out there – and they’re all perfect for sizzling summer nights.
Classic Key Lime Pie with Graham Cracker Crust
This iconic dessert combines the tanginess of key lime juice with the sweetness of condensed milk, all on a crunchy graham cracker crust. A perfect treat for any occasion.
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 cup sweetened condensed milk
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined.
3. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Bake 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. Stir in sweetened condensed milk until fully incorporated.
7. Pour filling over baked crust and smooth top.
8. Bake for an additional 15-18 minutes or until filling is set.
9. Allow pie to cool before serving. Top with whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 23-28 minutes
No-Bake Key Lime Pie with Whipped Cream Topping
Discover a refreshing twist on the classic key lime pie, without the need for baking! This no-bake recipe combines sweet and tangy flavors with a light and airy whipped cream topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream topping (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
2. Add the melted butter and stir until well combined.
3. Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks, key lime juice, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the filling over the crust and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Just before serving, top with whipped cream topping (recipe below).
Whipped Cream Topping:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Beat the cream and sugar until stiff peaks form.
Key Lime Pie Bars with Shortbread Crust
A tangy and sweet dessert that combines the flavors of key lime pie with a buttery shortbread crust, all wrapped up in a convenient bar form.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
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 and sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until shortbread is lightly golden.
4. While crust is baking, in a large bowl whisk together egg yolks, key lime juice, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour sweetened condensed milk into the bowl and whisk until smooth.
6. Pour filling over baked crust and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until filling is set.
7. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Vegan Key Lime Pie with Coconut Cream
Vegan Key Lime Pie with Coconut Cream: A tangy and creamy dessert that’s perfect for warm weather or any time you crave a tropical treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (gluten-free)
– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
– 3 large egg replacers (such as flaxseed or Ener-G Egg Replacer)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup coconut cream (chilled)
– Whipped cream made with chilled coconut cream and a pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted coconut oil until well combined. Press into a 9-inch pie dish.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg replacers, key lime juice, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour filling mixture into the crust and bake for 15-20 minutes or until set.
5. Chill in refrigerator before serving. Top with whipped coconut cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mini Key Lime Pies in Phyllo Cups
These bite-sized treats are a perfect combination of tangy key lime filling and crispy phyllo cups, making them ideal for parties or special occasions. With only a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying these delightful desserts in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo cups (about 24-30 cups)
– 1 cup of key lime juice
– 1/2 cup of condensed milk
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of grated lime zest
– 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together key lime juice, condensed milk, sugar, and salt until smooth.
3. Stir in grated lime zest and melted butter until well combined.
4. Place phyllo cups on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the key lime mixture into each cup.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly browned.
7. Allow the pies to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Key Lime Pie Cheesecake with Lime Glaze
This refreshing dessert combines the classic flavors of key lime pie and cheesecake, topped with a tangy lime glaze. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you crave a sweet and citrusy treat.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake:
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon key lime juice
For the glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons key lime juice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Prepare crust and press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, eggs, vanilla, sour cream, and key lime juice. Mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until set.
5. Let cool completely, then top with glaze made by whisking powdered sugar, key lime juice, and butter until smooth.
Cook Time: 55-60 minutes
Key Lime Pie Parfaits with Meringue Crumbs
A refreshing twist on the classic Key Lime Pie, these parfaits combine a tangy and sweet filling with crunchy meringue crumbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed Key lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup meringue crumbs (store-bought or homemade)
– Whipped cream and additional meringue crumbs for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sugar, egg yolks, Key lime juice, and salt until well combined.
2. Pour the mixture into 6-8 glasses or parfait dishes.
3. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the filling to set.
4. Just before serving, sprinkle meringue crumbs over the top of each parfait.
5. If desired, top with whipped cream and additional meringue crumbs.
Cooking Time: 4 hours refrigeration time
Gluten-Free Key Lime Pie with Almond Flour Crust
This gluten-free key lime pie is a refreshing twist on the classic dessert, featuring an almond flour crust and a tangy key lime filling. Perfect for those looking for a lighter, yet still decadent, dessert option.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter and stir until mixture forms a ball.
4. Press crust into a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, key lime juice, sugar, and heavy cream.
7. Pour filling into baked crust and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until set.
8. Allow pie to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Key Lime Pie Ice Cream with Graham Cracker Swirl
A refreshing twist on the classic key lime pie, this ice cream combines the tangy flavor of key lime with a crunchy graham cracker swirl.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup key lime juice
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream, milk, and sugar until dissolved.
2. Add key lime juice and vanilla extract; whisk to combine.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Churn ice cream in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
6. In a small bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined.
7. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned.
9. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
10. Once ice cream is churned, fold in graham cracker crumbs to create a swirl effect.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (for graham cracker crust)
Key Lime Pie Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
Brighten up your day with these tangy and sweet Key Lime Pie Cupcakes topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for a springtime treat or a tropical getaway in a cup.
Ingredients:
For the cupcakes:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). 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 and eggs until light and fluffy. Add key lime juice and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting with cream cheese frosting.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Key Lime Pie Tartlets with Fresh Berries
These bite-sized tartlets combine the brightness of key lime pie with the sweetness of fresh berries. Perfect for a summer gathering or a quick dessert fix.
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
– Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter and stir until combined.
2. Press mixture into mini muffin tin cups. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and key lime juice until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into baked tartlet shells. Top with fresh berries.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Key Lime Pie Mousse with White Chocolate Shavings
Brighten up your dessert menu with this refreshing and light Key Lime Pie Mousse, topped with crunchy white chocolate shavings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in key lime juice and vanilla extract into the egg mixture.
4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the egg mixture until combined.
5. Pour the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Melt white chocolate chips in the microwave or over low heat, then chill until set.
7. Shave the cooled white chocolate with a vegetable peeler and sprinkle on top of the mousse.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (whipping cream) + chilling time for white chocolate
Key Lime Pie Popsicles with Coconut Milk
Cool off this summer with a refreshing twist on the classic Key Lime Pie. These popsicles combine the tangy sweetness of key lime juice with the creaminess of coconut milk, all wrapped up in a fun and easy-to-eat package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup key lime juice
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
– Popsicle sticks and molds
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine key lime juice, coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. Stir in the melted butter until fully incorporated.
3. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top.
4. Add shredded coconut to the top of each pop, if desired.
5. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Enjoy your Key Lime Pie Popsicles with Coconut Milk!
Cooking Time: 4+ hours (freezing time)
Key Lime Pie Smoothie with Greek Yogurt
Brighten up your day with this refreshing and tangy smoothie, reminiscent of the classic key lime pie. This creamy blend combines the sweetness of pineapple and honey with the zesty flavor of key lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen pineapple
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon key lime juice
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine frozen pineapple, Greek yogurt, plain yogurt, honey, and key lime juice.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding ice cubes if desired to achieve the perfect thickness.
3. Pour into glasses and top with whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1-2
Key Lime Pie Pancakes with Lime Syrup
Brighten up your breakfast or brunch with these tangy and sweet Key Lime Pie Pancakes, topped with a zesty Lime Syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1 tablespoon key lime juice
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
– Lime Syrup (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, melted butter, and key lime juice.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook another minute.
Lime Syrup:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
Whisk together sugar and lime juice in a bowl. Serve warm or at room temperature over pancakes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes cooking time for syrup)
Key Lime Pie Trifle with Vanilla Wafers
This classic dessert gets a creative twist by layering key lime pie filling with vanilla wafers and whipped cream, creating a show-stopping trifle that’s perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vanilla wafers, crushed
– 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
– 3 large egg yolks
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and key lime juice until smooth.
2. Crush the vanilla wafers in a food processor or place them in a plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin.
3. In a large serving dish, create a layer of crushed vanilla wafers.
4. Pour half of the key lime filling over the wafers.
5. Top with whipped cream (beat heavy whipping cream with 1 tablespoon sugar until stiff peaks form).
6. Repeat steps 3-5 for the second layer.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed! This trifle is a no-bake dessert.
Key Lime Pie French Toast with Citrus Glaze
Start your day with a twist on classic French toast by incorporating the brightness of key lime pie. This sweet and tangy treat is perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably Challah or brioche)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup key lime juice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Citrus glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and melted butter.
2. Add key lime juice, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Repeat with remaining slices.
Citrus Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons key lime juice
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
Whisk together powder sugar and key lime juice until smooth. Add softened butter and whisk until combined. Drizzle over French toast before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes per batch
Key Lime Pie Cookies with Lime Zest Icing
These sweet and tangy cookies are infused with the bright, citrusy flavor of key lime pie, topped with a zesty icing that’s sure to satisfy your dessert cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup key lime juice
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in key lime juice, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Lime Zest Icing:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp key lime juice
– 1/4 tsp grated lime zest
Mix until smooth and spread over cooled cookies. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Summary
Get ready to beat the heat this summer with these 18 creamy and delicious key lime pie recipes! From classic pies with graham cracker crusts to no-bake treats, vegan options, and even breakfast-inspired twists, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a traditionalist or looking to mix things up, these recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and provide the perfect dessert for your summer gatherings.
Leave a Reply