Certainly! Here’s an extended version of your Key Lime Pie post with detailed description, ingredients, instructions, notes, prep time, cook time, total time, yield, category, cuisine, and nutrition information.

Key Lime Pie Recipe 🍰: A Tangy, Creamy Slice of Sunshine 🌞

Description

Key Lime Pie is a refreshing, tropical dessert that originates from the Florida Keys. With its zesty lime filling, creamy texture, and buttery graham cracker crust, it’s a classic American treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a summer BBQ or simply indulging in a special dessert, this homemade Key Lime Pie will wow your guests. Simple, delicious, and full of flavor, this dessert will transport you straight to a sunny beach in Florida! 🍋🌴

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 graham crackers, crushed)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (to sweeten the crust)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 🧈 (for richness and binding)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for flavor)

For the Filling:

• 3 large egg yolks (create a smooth, custard-like consistency)
• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk 🥛 (this forms the base of the filling)
• ½ cup fresh key lime juice (or regular lime juice if key limes are unavailable) 🍋
• Zest of 2 key limes (optional, for extra zing and color)
• ¼ teaspoon salt (to balance the sweetness)

For the Whipped Cream (Optional but Recommended):

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream 🥄 (creates a light, fluffy topping)
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (adds sweetness to the cream)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust 🍪

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until everything is evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to make sure the crust is compact.
4. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Set aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Lime Filling 🍥

1. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they become smooth and slightly thickened.
2. Add the sweetened condensed milk and continue whisking until well combined.
3. Stir in the fresh key lime juice, followed by the lime zest (if using) and salt. Mix until everything is fully combined and smooth.
4. Pour the lime filling into the cooled graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 3: Bake the Pie 🍰

1. Place the pie in the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-18 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
2. Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for about 30 minutes at room temperature.
3. Once it has cooled, transfer the pie to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.

Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream Topping (Optional) 🍦

1. In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract using an electric mixer on high speed until soft peaks form.
2. Once the pie is completely chilled, top it with whipped cream, spreading it evenly across the surface. Garnish with extra lime zest or lime slices if desired.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy! 🍴

Slice the pie into wedges and serve chilled. The combination of the tart lime filling, sweet cream, and buttery crust will have your taste buds dancing! 😋

Notes

• Key Limes vs. Regular Limes: If you can find fresh key limes, they are preferred for their distinctive flavor. However, regular limes are a fine substitute if key limes aren’t available.
• Making Ahead: Key Lime Pie can be made up to 2 days in advance. It actually tastes even better the day after it’s made as the flavors meld together!
• Whipped Cream Tip: For a firmer whipped cream topping, refrigerate your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream.
• Freezing: You can freeze Key Lime Pie for up to 2-3 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.