Key lime pie is a classic American dessert made with a graham cracker crust, a filling made of sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and lime juice, and often topped with whipped cream. The dish is thought to have originated in the Florida Keys, where the small, tart key lime fruit grows in abundance. It is typically served chilled and is a popular dessert choice during the summer months.
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key lime pie origin
The origin of key lime pie is somewhat debated, but it is believed to have originated in the Florida Keys, particularly in the Key West area. The pie is thought to have been created by sponge fishermen and sailors in the late 1800s, as it is a dish that can be made using simple ingredients that were readily available on boats, such as limes, eggs, and sweetened condensed milk.
The key lime, which is smaller and more tart than the regular lime, is also native to the Florida Keys and is the traditional fruit used in the pie. The dish became popular in the early 20th century and has since become a classic American dessert.
Best key lime pie recipe
The best key lime pie recipe will vary depending on personal taste preferences. However, a classic recipe that is widely considered to be delicious and authentic is one that uses a graham cracker crust, a filling made of sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and key lime juice, and is often topped with whipped cream.
Here is a recipe for a classic key lime pie that is widely considered delicious and authentic:
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- Whipped cream, for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest until well combined. Pour the mixture into the cooled crust.
- Bake the pie for 15 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- Let the pie cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Top with whipped cream, if desired.
This recipe uses key lime juice and lime zest, which gives a truly authentic flavor and aroma to the pie. It’s a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with a buttery crust that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling.
Keep in mind that, there are variations to this recipe, you can make the crust with almond flour or coconut flour for a gluten-free option, or use different ingredients to create new flavors.
key lime nutrition facts
Key lime pie is a traditional dessert dish, and as such, it is high in calories and sugar. Here are some approximate nutrition facts for a 1/8th slice (57g) of key lime pie:
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 14g (21% Daily Value)
- Saturated Fat: 8g (40% Daily Value)
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 90mg (30% Daily Value)
- Sodium: 150mg (6% Daily Value)
- Total Carbohydrates: 27g (9% Daily Value)
- Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% Daily Value)
- Sugars: 17g
- Protein: 4g
It is worth noting that the nutrition facts will vary depending on the recipe used and the serving size.
Please also keep in mind that key lime pie is a dessert that should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It is high in calories, sugar, and saturated fat, so it should be consumed in moderation and not as a regular part of one’s diet.
Visit for a popular dessert choice.
Lois Lane is a professional blogger and a seasoned Content writer for wellhousekeeping.com. With a passion for simplifying complex Home Decor topics, he provides valuable insights to a diverse online audience. With four years of experience, Lois has polished his skills as a professional blogger.
