Southern Key Lime Pie
Southern Key Lime Pie offers a tangy, sweet filling with vibrant lime flavor nestled in a flaky pastry crust. Its refreshing citrus notes make it a perfect dessert for warm weather gatherings or any lime lover's occasion, combining creamy texture with a crisp, buttery base.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Separate egg yolks from whites; set whites aside for meringue.
- Place the egg yolks in a medium mixing bowl; beat with a fork or whisk until combined.
- Gradually stir in the condensed milk and lime peel.
- Add lime juice and water, stirring well until the mixture thickens.
- Pour the filling into the baked pastry shell.
- Bake in a 325°F oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool.
- Increase oven temperature to 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh key limes instead of Persian limes. If you prefer a sweeter pie, increase the sugar slightly. Make sure to beat the egg yolks thoroughly to prevent lumps, and for a smoother filling, you can strain the mixture before pouring it into the shell. This pie can be topped with whipped cream for added indulgence, similar to what you might do with Sour Cream Oatmeal Cookies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pie chilled, garnished with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lime zest for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a light citrus sorbet for a refreshing dessert experience. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Timothy'S Christmas Cookies during holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you want to reheat, slice a piece and warm it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just enough to take the chill off without cooking it further. Avoid freezing, as it can alter the texture of the filling.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Key Lime Pie contains roughly 253 calories, with 2g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (39% 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 bottled lime juice instead of fresh lime juice?
While bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch, fresh lime juice offers a brighter and more vibrant flavor that enhances the pie significantly. For the best results, opt for fresh key limes whenever possible.
What can I substitute for sweetened condensed milk?
If you need a substitute, you can make your own by simmering equal parts of milk and sugar until thickened, or you can use evaporated milk mixed with sugar. However, keep in mind that the flavor may differ slightly from the original recipe.
How do I know when the pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. It will firm up as it cools. A good rule of thumb is to check it around the 30-minute mark; if it still looks too runny, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
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).