1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Crust Ingredients:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Make the Graham Cracker Crust: Combine the graham crackers and granulated sugar in a food processor.

Pulse until fine crumbs form.

Pour in the melted butter.

Pulse until the crumbs are well coated and stick together when pinched.

3. Press Crust into Pie Plate:

Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or your fingers to create an even and compact crust.

4. Bake the Crust:

Bake the crust until just set, about 10 minutes.

Set aside to cool slightly, about 10 minutes, while you prepare the filling.

5. Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest until combined.

6. Pour Filling into Crust:

Pour the filling into the slightly cooled crust.

7. Bake the Pie: Bake the pie until the center is set but still slightly jiggly, about 15 minutes.

8. Cool and Chill:

Let the pie cool for 30 minutes at room temperature.

Then refrigerate until completely chilled, at least 1 hour, or preferably longer.

9. Make the Whipped Cream: Before serving, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar in a large bowl with a mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.

10. Top and Garnish: Spread the whipped cream on top of the chilled pie.

Garnish with additional lime zest, if desired.

11. Serve: Slice and serve the chilled pie. Enjoy your delicious Classic Key Lime Pie!