Best Key Lime Pie Recipe – Creamy, Tangy & Perfectly Refreshing

When it comes to refreshing desserts, nothing beats a homemade Key Lime Pie. Creamy, tangy, and perfectly balanced with sweetness, this pie is a Florida classic that has become a favorite all over the world. With its smooth custard-like filling and buttery graham cracker crust, it’s the ultimate dessert for warm days, special occasions, or when you simply want a slice of sunshine on your plate.

This recipe is simple, quick, and absolutely foolproof—no wonder it’s often called the best Key Lime Pie ever!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ 5 Ingredients Only – simple pantry staples.

✔ Quick & Easy – ready in under 30 minutes plus chilling time.

✔ Creamy & Tangy – the perfect balance of sweet and tart.

✔ Family Favorite – loved by both kids and adults.

Ingredients You’ll Need

3 cups sweetened condensed milk
¾ cup key lime juice
½ cup sour cream
1 tablespoon grated lime zest
1 (9-inch) prepared graham cracker crust

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2 – Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine condensed milk, key lime juice, sour cream, and lime zest. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 3 – Assemble the Pie

Pour the mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust. Place the pie on a baking sheet for easy handling.

Step 4 – Bake

Bake for 5–8 minutes, until tiny pinhole bubbles burst on the surface. The filling will still look slightly wobbly but should not brown.

Step 5 – Chill & Serve

Cool the pie on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Garnish with lime slices and whipped cream if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Top with fresh whipped cream for a creamy contrast.
Garnish with lime wedges or zest curls for a pop of color.
Serve with fresh berries for a fruity twist.

Tips & Variations

Key limes vs. regular limes: Authentic Key Lime Pie uses key limes, but regular limes work just fine.
Chill overnight: For best texture, let the pie set in the fridge overnight.
Crust options: Use store-bought graham cracker crust or make your own from crushed graham crackers and butter.
Extra creamy: Add a touch more sour cream for an even richer texture.

Nutrition (Per Slice – 8 servings)

Calories: 360 kcal
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fat: 15g
Protein: 6g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Key Lime Pie ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it tastes best when made a day in advance so it has time to fully chill and set.

2. How long does Key Lime Pie last in the fridge?

Keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

3. Can I freeze Key Lime Pie?

Absolutely! Wrap tightly in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

4. Do I need to use key limes?

Key limes are traditional, but if you can’t find them, bottled key lime juice or regular lime juice works just as well.

5. Why is my filling runny?

The pie needs time to chill and set. Make sure it cools completely before slicing.