Ingredients
– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs for the crust
– ⅓ cup granulated sugar for the crust
– 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted) for the crust
– 16 ounces cream cheese (softened) for the filling
– ¾ cup granulated sugar for the filling
– ⅓ cup key lime juice (from about 13 key limes) for the filling
– 1 tablespoon key lime zest (from about 7 key limes) for the filling
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for the filling
– 2 large eggs (lightly beaten) for the filling
– Homemade whipped cream for garnish
– Optional lime slices for garnish
Instructions
1-First, preheat your oven to 350°F and mix the graham cracker crumbs, ⅓ cup granulated sugar, and 5 tablespoons melted unsalted butter in a bowl. Press this mixture into a 9-inch pie pan and bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool while you reduce the oven to 300°F. Now, beat 16 ounces of softened cream cheese until smooth, add ¾ cup granulated sugar, and mix well.
2-Next, stir in ⅓ cup key lime juice, 1 tablespoon key lime zest, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until combined. Gently fold in 2 large lightly beaten eggs using a spatula for an even mix. Pour the filling into the cooled crust and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the edges are firm but the center is still a bit jiggly.
3-After baking, cool the pie on a wire rack, then cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours to set. This step helps the flavors meld and gives the pie its creamy texture. Serve with homemade whipped cream and lime slices for a finishing touch that enhances the tang.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🍈 Use fresh key limes for best flavor; bottled juice is acceptable if labeled correctly.
🥧 Prebake crust to ensure a crisp texture contrasting the creamy filling.
⏳ Chill the pie thoroughly to allow it to fully set and develop flavor before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling time: 8 hours
- Cook Time: 40 to 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 362 kcal
- Sugar: 26 g
- Sodium: 239 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 94 mg
