Foolproof Key Lime Pie

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: American

A creamy, zesty key lime pie with a smooth filling and a graham cracker crust, perfect for summer gatherings and citrus lovers seeking a no-fail dessert.

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Ingredients

  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup Key lime juice

Instructions

  1. Beat together the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, and Key lime juice until light and fluffy.
  2. Pour the mixture into a 9-inch pie shell.
  3. Top with Cool Whip.
  4. Refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a more intense lime flavor, consider adding a pinch of lime zest to the mixture. If you're short on time, a pre-made graham cracker crust works great as a substitute for making your own. For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. This pie pairs beautifully with Low Calorie Viennese Hot Cocoa Mix during the holidays for a refreshing dessert option.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the key lime pie chilled, topped with generous dollops of Cool Whip for added creaminess. Fresh lime slices or zest make for a beautiful garnish. This pie is a perfect standalone dessert but also pairs well with a side of fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover key lime pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed cold, so no need to reheat; simply slice and serve straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Foolproof Key Lime Pie contains roughly 372 calories, with 10g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (28% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium.

372 kcal 19% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 9.8g 20% DV
Total Fat 8.8g 11% DV
Carbs 65.8g 24% DV
Fiber 0.1g
Sugar 55.1g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 216.4mg 9% DV
Potassium 470.9mg 10% DV
Cholesterol 39.4mg 13% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 118.1mcg 13% DV
Vitamin C 4.5mg 5% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 362.6mg 28% DV
Iron 0.3mg 1% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk

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 lime juice instead of Key lime juice?

While you can use regular lime juice, the flavor will be different. Key limes provide a unique tartness that is essential for authentic key lime pie. If you must substitute, use a blend of lime and lemon juice to mimic the flavor profile.

How do I know when the pie is set?

The pie should be firm to the touch but slightly jiggle in the center when you gently shake it. Refrigerating it for at least 1 to 2 hours after pouring the filling helps it set properly.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes! Key lime pie can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to cover it well with plastic wrap or foil in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when served.

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).

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