Original Key West Lime Pie
A classic and tangy Key West Lime Pie with a smooth lime custard filling and fluffy meringue topping, perfect for citrus lovers and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk in a bowl.
- Mix well, then add lime juice and blend thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture into a baked 9-inch pie shell.
- Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form, gradually adding sugar.
- Swirl the meringue onto the pie, spreading to the edge of the crust all around.
- Bake in a 300°F oven until the meringue is pale honey-colored.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter meringue, ensure your egg whites are at room temperature before beating. If you don't have lime juice, you can use lemon juice as a substitute, but it will alter the flavor slightly. For a richer taste, consider adding a teaspoon of lime zest to the filling. This pie is best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pie chilled, garnished with lime slices or additional lime zest for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra creaminess. This refreshing dessert is perfect for summer gatherings or as a light finish to any meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Key West Lime Pie in the refrigerator, covered loosely with plastic wrap to prevent the meringue from getting soggy. It can be enjoyed for 2-3 days. Reheating is not recommended, as the meringue can lose its texture. Instead, enjoy it cold for the best experience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Original Key West Lime Pie contains roughly 314 calories, with 14g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 store-bought pie crust for this recipe?
Absolutely! A store-bought pie crust can save you time and still yield a delicious pie. Just ensure it’s baked according to package instructions before adding the filling.
Is it necessary to use fresh lime juice?
While fresh lime juice is ideal for the best flavor, bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch. However, fresh juice provides a brighter and more vibrant taste that enhances the overall dessert.
How do I know when the meringue is done baking?
The meringue is ready when it turns a pale honey color, usually after about 10-15 minutes at 300°F. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-baking, which can lead to a tougher texture.
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).