Description

Have you ever tasted a dessert that’s so refreshing it feels like a sunny day in every bite? That’s what a Frozen Key Lime Pie is – a creamy, zesty pie with a crunchy crust and a cool twist! But here’s the big question: How can a pie be so easy to make and still taste like a bakery treat? The secret is in the tangy lime filling, a buttery graham cracker crust, and a few simple tricks we’ll share today.

Ingredients

To make a Frozen Key Lime Pie, you’ll need ingredients for the crust, filling, and decoration. Here’s what you’ll use and why each one matters:

Crust Ingredients

Graham Cracker Crumbs (1 ½ cups, from 10 crackers): Creates a crunchy, sweet base for the pie.
Sugar (¼ cup): Sweetens the crust and helps it hold together.
Unsalted Butter (6 tbsp, melted): Binds the crumbs for a firm, buttery crust.

Filling Ingredients

Extra-Large Egg Yolks (6, at room temperature): Add richness and help thicken the filling.
Sugar (¼ cup): Sweetens the filling and balances the lime’s tartness.
Sweetened Condensed Milk (14 oz can): Provides creaminess and sweetness for a smooth texture.
Grated Lime Zest (2 tbsp): Boosts the citrus flavor with aromatic oils.
Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice (¾ cup, from 4-5 limes): The star ingredient, giving a tangy, refreshing taste.

Decoration Ingredients

Cold Heavy Cream (1 cup): Whips into a fluffy topping for a creamy finish.
Sugar (¼ cup): Sweetens the whipped cream lightly.
Pure Vanilla Extract (¼ tsp): Adds a warm, sweet note to the cream.
Thin Lime Wedges: Garnish for a fresh, colorful touch.

Substitutions and Variations

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
Vegan: Use vegan condensed milk, coconut cream for whipping, and flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per yolk).
No Limes: Use lemon juice and zest for a frozen lemon pie.
Lower Sugar: Use a reduced-sugar condensed milk, but the texture may be slightly icier.
No Egg Yolks: Use ½ cup silken tofu blended smooth for a vegan alternative, though flavor may vary.

These ingredients are easy to find and make a pie that’s both fun and delicious!

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crust

Preheat the oven to 350°F.
In a bowl, combine 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup sugar, and 6 tbsp melted unsalted butter. Mix until evenly moistened.
Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie pan, ensuring the sides and bottom are an even thickness.
Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool completely on a wire rack.

Tip: Use the bottom of a glass to press the crumbs firmly for an even crust. Cool fully to prevent a soggy base.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat 6 extra-large egg yolks and ¼ cup sugar on high speed for 5 minutes, until thick and pale.
With the mixer on medium speed, add one 14-oz can sweetened condensed milk, 2 tbsp grated lime zest, and ¾ cup freshly squeezed lime juice. Mix until smooth.
Pour the filling into the cooled pie crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

Tip: Zest limes before juicing for easier prep. Ensure eggs are at room temperature for a thicker mixture.

Step 3: Freeze the Pie

Cover the pie with plastic wrap and freeze until firm, at least several hours or overnight.

Tip: Place the pie on a flat surface in the freezer to keep it level. Cover tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Step 4: Decorate the Pie

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat 1 cup cold heavy cream on high speed until soft peaks form.
Add ¼ cup sugar and ¼ tsp pure vanilla extract, and beat until firm peaks form.
Spoon or pipe the whipped cream decoratively onto the frozen pie.
Garnish with thin lime wedges.
Freeze again until the cream is firm, about 30 minutes, or serve immediately.

Tip: Chill the bowl and whisk for faster whipping. Use a piping bag for fancy swirls or spoon for a rustic look.

Step 5: Serve

Let the pie sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly for easier slicing.
Cut into wedges with a warm knife and serve chilled.

Tip: Dip the knife in warm water for clean slices. Serve on chilled plates for a refreshing treat.