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!
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.