Daddy'S Key Lime Pie
A tangy and creamy key lime pie with a crisp crust, topped with fluffy meringue, perfect for summer gatherings or any citrus lover's dessert craving.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat egg yolks until light and thick.
- Blend in lime juice, then sweetened condensed milk, stirring until mixture thickens.
- If desired, add green food coloring to the mixture.
- Pour the lime filling into a baked pie crust.
- Beat egg whites with cream of tartar until stiff peaks form.
- Gradually beat in sugar, beating until glossy peaks form.
- Spread the egg white meringue over the surface of the pie to the edge of the crust.
- Bake in a 350°F oven until golden brown, about 20 minutes.
- Chill the pie before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For the perfect key lime pie, use fresh lime juice for the best flavor. If you prefer a less sweet pie, reduce the sugar in the meringue. You can substitute the prebaked pie crust with a graham cracker crust for a traditional touch. Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature for easier whipping. If you like a vibrant green color, add a few drops of food coloring after mixing in the lime juice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the key lime pie chilled, garnished with lime slices or whipped cream for added flair. It pairs beautifully with Homemade Caramel Sauce for those who enjoy a sweet contrast. For a complete dessert experience, consider serving it alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which complements the tartness of the pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. The pie can be kept for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it chilled, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving. Avoid freezing, as it can affect the texture of the meringue.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Daddy'S Key Lime Pie contains roughly 303 calories, with 6g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of calcium (15% of the Daily Value), protein (12% of the Daily Value), and potassium (11% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?
While bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch, fresh lime juice provides a brighter, more authentic flavor that is essential for a classic key lime pie. For the best results, opt for fresh limes and juice them just before use.
What can I do if my meringue weeps?
Weeping meringue can occur if there is too much moisture. To prevent this, make sure the mixing bowl and beaters are completely dry before whipping the egg whites. Additionally, avoid overbaking the pie, as excess heat can cause the meringue to release moisture.
How do I know when the pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the meringue is golden brown and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on it while baking to avoid burning. Let it cool at room temperature before chilling in the fridge to set properly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).