HOW TO PREPARE KEY LIME PIE.

Key Lime Pie is a classic American dessert, originating from the Florida Keys, that boasts a tangy, creamy filling atop a graham cracker crust, often topped with whipped cream. Here’s a basic recipe to help you prepare a delicious Key Lime Pie:

Ingredients:
For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
4 large egg yolks
1 (14-ounce) can of sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup key lime juice (from about 20 key limes)
1 tablespoon key lime zest (optional, for additional flavor)
For the Whipped Cream Topping:
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Preparing the Crust:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
Press Into Pan: Press the mixture into the bottom and slightly up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan.
Bake: Bake for about 8-10 minutes until set and slightly golden. Allow it to cool.
Preparing the Filling:
Mix Egg Yolks: In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they are light and slightly fluffy.
Add Condensed Milk: Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, whisking continuously.
Add Lime Juice and Zest: Slowly add the key lime juice (and zest if using), mixing until well combined.
Pour into Crust: Pour the filling into the cooled graham cracker crust.
Bake: Return the pie to the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set.
Cool: Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely. Then refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, or preferably overnight.
Preparing the Whipped Cream Topping:
Chill Equipment: Place the mixing bowl and whisk attachment in the freezer for 10-15 minutes.
Whip Cream: In the chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
Top the Pie: Generously spread or pipe the whipped cream over the cooled pie.
Serving:
Slice: Using a sharp knife, slice the pie into desired piece sizes.
Garnish: Optionally, garnish each slice with additional lime zest or a small slice of lime.
Serve: Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes:
Key Limes vs. Regular Limes: Key limes are smaller and typically sweeter than regular limes. If you can’t find key limes, you can substitute with regular lime juice, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Storing: Store the pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the pie without the whipped cream topping. Wrap tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Add fresh whipped cream after thawing in the refrigerator.
Enjoy your homemade Key Lime Pie! This classic dessert is a favorite for its wonderful balance of sweet and tart flavors, making it a refreshing treat.