Key Largo Lime Pie
A zesty, creamy lime pie with a graham cracker crust and toasted coconut topping, perfect for citrus lovers and a refreshing dessert for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan over low heat.
- Whisk in sugar, lime juice, egg yolks, eggs, and lime peel; cook, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens.
- Stir in green food coloring if using.
- Let cool to room temperature.
- Pour the mixture into the graham cracker pie shell.
- Top with lightly toasted coconut.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture before pouring it into the crust. If you're out of fresh limes, bottled lime juice can be used, but fresh juice yields a brighter flavor. You can also substitute the graham cracker crust with a pre-made shortbread crust for a different texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Key Largo Lime Pie pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top. For a delightful contrast, serve it alongside Salsa Strips for a savory bite. It also makes a refreshing dessert after a heavy meal or barbecue, complementing rich dishes perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, for up to 3 days. To enjoy it later, serve it chilled straight from the fridge. Avoid freezing as the texture may change when thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Key Largo Lime Pie contains roughly 355 calories, with 7g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value), iron (12% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (10% 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 make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Key Largo Lime Pie a day in advance. Just make sure to cover it well and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it a convenient option for entertaining.
What can I substitute for the coconut?
If you prefer not to use coconut, you can skip it entirely or replace it with crushed nuts like almonds or pecans for added texture. Alternatively, consider using a layer of fresh fruit, such as berries, for a colorful topping.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the pie?
To adjust the sweetness, you can reduce the amount of sugar slightly or use a sugar substitute if you're looking for a lower-calorie option. Remember to taste the filling before pouring it into the crust to find your ideal balance.
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).