Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Begin by gathering your graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter for the pie crust. In a mixing bowl, combine crumbs and sugar. Stir until blended, then pour in the melted butter. This mixture will create a crust that is both crunchy and flavorful. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a pie dish, forming an even layer. Make sure it’s packed tight to hold everything together later!

Step 2: Bake the Crust

Now, it’s time to bake that crust! Preheat your oven to 350°F 175°C. Once heated, place your pie crust in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes. This step will give your crust a beautiful golden hue and make it more stable for all the filling that’s to come. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-baking!

Step 3: Mix the Key Lime Filling

While the crust is baking, let’s whip up the zesty filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolks. Whisk together until smooth—you want everything to blend seamlessly. The key lime juice will impart that tangy flavor that makes this dessert unforgettable!

Step 4: Pour the Filling into the Crust

Carefully pour the luscious filling into the baked crust. Make sure to spread it evenly so every slice of your Key Lime Pie has the same fantastic flavor. This is where the magic happens—the filling will transform as it bakes.

Step 5: Bake the Filled Pie

Return the pie to the oven and let it bake! Set your timer for about 15 minutes. You’ll begin to notice the filling gently wobble but not jiggle too much—this means it’s set just right. Once time is up, remove the pie and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 6: Chill the Pie

Your next step is to chill the pie for at least 2 hours. Cover it with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. This chilling process allows all the flavors to marry beautifully, creating a refreshing dessert that sings with that iconic Key Lime Pie taste.

Step 7: Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping

While the pie chills, let’s make some whipped cream! In a mixing bowl, beat heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. This fluffy topping will add richness to your Key Lime Pie and balance out its tartness. Make sure to whip until it’s just right—too much and you’ll end up with butter!

Step 8: Decorate and Serve

Once chilled, it’s time to decorate. Spread or dollop the whipped cream over the top of the pie. For an extra touch, consider garnishing with lime slices or zest for a fun, colorful presentation. Now, slice into your masterpiece and watch it disappear from the table!

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Gather graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix crumbs and sugar in a bowl, then stir in melted butter until the mixture looks like wet sand. Press this firmly into the pie dish’s bottom and sides, ensuring an even thickness. Take your time on this step; a well-packed crust holds the Key Lime Pie beautifully.

Step 2: Bake the Crust

Preheat your oven and bake the crust. Place the crust in a preheated oven for about 10 minutes, watching closely for that perfect golden brown color. This step is essential for a firm base that won’t crumble under the luscious filling.

Step 3: Mix the Key Lime Filling

Whisk together key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolks. Ensure everything is combined smoothly. The tartness of the lime juice paired with the creaminess of the condensed milk is the star of this dish!

Step 4: Pour the Filling into the Crust

Pour the filling into the prepared crust. This is the moment your beautifully prepped crust meets the zesty filling! Pour it slowly so it spreads out evenly and fills every corner.

Step 5: Bake the Filled Pie

Bake in the oven until the filling is just set. Keep an eye on it after 15 minutes; the edges should be firm while the center remains slightly jiggly, ready for cooling.

Step 6: Chill the Pie

Let it cool at room temperature, then refrigerate. This chilling helps the flavors deepen and brings that refreshing touch to each bite when served.

Step 7: Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping

Beat heavy cream and powdered sugar together. Beat until you see soft peaks; don’t overdo it! This creates a light, fluffy texture that perfectly complements your Key Lime Pie.

Step 8: Decorate and Serve

Spread the whipped cream over the chilled pie. Add lime slices or zest for decoration if desired. Use a sharp knife to cut even slices; enjoy your creation, knowing you made a delightful Key Lime Pie from scratch!