Florida-Cracker Key Lime Pie
A tangy and creamy Key Lime Pie with a buttery crust, topped with fluffy meringue, perfect for citrus lovers and special occasions alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat 1 whole egg until well combined.
- Add sweetened condensed milk, Key lime juice, and egg yolks; stir with a spoon until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add a pinch of salt and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gradually add 2 tablespoons of sugar to the egg whites and continue beating until glossy.
- Spread the meringue over the lime pie filling.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven until the meringue is light brown, about 12 to 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Key lime pie, consider using freshly squeezed Key lime juice rather than bottled for a more vibrant taste. If you prefer a less sweet meringue, reduce the sugar to 1 tablespoon. For a twist, top with an Almond-Coconut Topping instead of traditional meringue for a delightful crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Florida-Cracker Key Lime Pie with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a side of Escalloped Corn And Tomatoes for a contrasting dish. For a complete meal, consider serving with light salads or savory American recipes that complement the tangy flavor of the pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Key lime pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3 days. To enjoy it chilled, simply slice and serve directly from the fridge; there's no need to reheat, as the pie is best served cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Florida-Cracker Key Lime Pie contains roughly 134 calories, with 3g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 943mg per serving (41% 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 regular limes instead of Key limes?
While you can substitute regular limes, the flavor will be different. Key limes are smaller and have a unique tartness that is essential for authentic Key lime pie. If you must use regular limes, adjust the sweetness accordingly to balance the acidity.
How do I prevent the meringue from weeping?
To prevent the meringue from weeping, ensure that the filling is hot when you spread the meringue on top. Additionally, sealing the meringue to the edges of the crust can help trap moisture and reduce weeping.
Can I make this pie in advance?
Yes, you can make the Key lime pie a day ahead. After baking, allow it to cool completely before refrigerating. Just be sure to add the meringue shortly before serving to maintain its texture and prevent it from becoming soggy.
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).