Key Lime Cream Cheese Pie
A refreshing and creamy key lime pie with toasted coconut crust, perfect for summer gatherings or dessert lovers craving a tropical flavor. Light, tangy, and sweet.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Spread the coconut in a 9-inch pie plate and bake until light gold, 8 to 10 minutes, stirring several times to ensure even coloring.
- Cool the toasted coconut slightly, then transfer to a food processor.
- Add lemon nut cookies and process until they are crumbled.
- Add melted butter and mix well to combine.
- Press the crumb mixture into the bottom and sides of the pie plate to form the crust.
- Bake until set, about 8 minutes, then cool completely on a wire rack before filling.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using crushed graham crackers instead of lemon nut cookies. If you prefer a nuttier crust, try adding some finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumb mixture. Toasting the coconut is key for depth; watch closely to avoid burning. You can also adjust the sweetness by adding a bit more sugar if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This Key Lime Cream Cheese Pie is delightful when garnished with whipped cream and lime zest. For a refreshing contrast, serve it alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It pairs beautifully with Lo-Cal Tuna Dip for a light meal option, making it perfect for summer gatherings or special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the crust's texture, keep it covered with plastic wrap rather than foil. If you want to enjoy it warm, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving, or briefly warm it in the oven at 200°F.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Key Lime Cream Cheese Pie contains roughly 401 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 42g fat.
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 a different type of cookie for the crust?
Absolutely! While lemon nut cookies add a unique flavor, you can substitute with vanilla wafers, graham crackers, or even chocolate cookies for a different twist. Just keep the proportions the same to ensure a good crust consistency.
How do I know when the crust is set?
The crust will become slightly firm to the touch and golden brown around the edges when it's set. If you gently press on the crust, it should hold its shape without feeling overly soft. Baking for about 8 minutes at 400°F typically achieves this.
Can I freeze the pie?
Yes, you can freeze the pie! Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored frozen for up to a month. To serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and enjoy it chilled.
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).