The Perfect Key Lime Pie Recipe: Tangy, Sweet & Homemade Joy

Whipping up a delightful key lime pie can transport you straight to tropical paradise with minimal effort.

Zesty citrus notes dance across a silky smooth surface, promising pure refreshment.

Creamy layers blend tangy flavors that sing of sunny florida afternoons.

Rich graham cracker crusts provide the perfect crisp foundation for this classic dessert.

Delicate yet bold, each slice delivers a burst of bright, nostalgic memories.

Simple ingredients come together in a magical culinary symphony that will impress anyone you serve.

Let’s dive into this refreshing treat that promises to become your new favorite summer indulgence.

What You’ll Need for Mary Berry Key Lime Pie

• Digestive Biscuits: Classic British cookies that provide a crumbly base for the pie.
• Butter: Helps bind the crust and adds rich flavor.
• Sugar: Enhances the sweetness of the crust.

• Lime Juice: Provides the signature tangy flavor of the pie.
• Lime Zest: Adds intense citrus aroma and bright flavor to the filling.
• Condensed Milk: Creates a smooth, sweet, and creamy texture for the filling.
• Cream: Helps thicken the filling and adds richness.

• Cream: Whipped to soft peaks for a light and airy decoration.
• Lime Zest: Garnishes the pie with an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Baking Instructions for Mary Berry Key Lime Pie

Step 1: Crumble Biscuit Base

Grab your digestive biscuits and crush them into super fine crumbs using a food processor or rolling pin. Ensure the crumbs are uniform and smooth.

Step 2: Create Buttery Crust Mixture

• Sugar
• Biscuit crumbs

Mix thoroughly until the ingredients bind together perfectly.

Step 3: Shape and Chill Crust

Press the biscuit mixture firmly into a 23cm tart tin, creating an even layer across the bottom and sides. Place in the refrigerator and let it chill for 30 minutes to set firmly.

Step 4: Whip Zesty Filling

• Lime juice
• Lime zest
• Condensed milk
• Cream

Stir until the mixture becomes thick and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 5: Fill and Refrigerate

Pour the lime filling into the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Return to the refrigerator and let it set for several hours until firm.

Step 6: Create Whipped Cream Topping

Whip the remaining cream until soft, billowy peaks form.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

• Whipped cream
• Extra lime zest

Slice and enjoy your refreshing key lime pie!

Tips for a Perfect Mary Berry Key Lime Pie

• Crush Precisely: Use a food processor or rolling pin to create uniform, fine biscuit crumbs for a perfect crust texture.
• Chill Thoroughly: Allow the crust to set completely in the refrigerator to prevent crumbling when slicing the pie.
• Zest Carefully: Grate only the green part of the lime to avoid bitter white pith in your filling.
• Whip Gently: Soft peaks create a light, airy cream topping that complements the tangy lime filling.
• Serve Chilled: Keep the pie refrigerated until just before serving to maintain its creamy consistency and fresh flavor.

Fun Twists on Mary Berry Key Lime Pie

• Tropical Coconut Variation: Replace digestive biscuits with coconut cookie crumbs and add toasted coconut flakes to the crust for a tropical flavor profile.
• Vegan Key Lime Delight: Substitute condensed milk with coconut condensed milk, use coconut cream instead of dairy cream, and create a graham cracker-style crust with vegan butter.
• Gluten-Free Zesty Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour for the crust, ensuring those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy the tangy dessert.
• Low-Sugar Alternative: Replace condensed milk with a sugar-free condensed milk alternative and use stevia-sweetened whipped cream to reduce overall sugar content.

Best Pairings for Mary Berry Key Lime Pie

• Pair Zesty Citrus Cocktails: Craft a refreshing key lime martini or mojito that complements the pie's tangy lime flavor, enhancing the dessert's bright citrus notes.
• Serve Crisp White Wines: Select a chilled sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio with high acidity that mirrors the pie's vibrant lime profile and cuts through its creamy richness.
• Garnish with Fresh Mint: Sprinkle chopped mint leaves on the pie or cocktail to add a cool, herbal contrast that elevates the dessert's tropical essence.
• Match with Tropical Sorbets: Offer a small scoop of passion fruit or coconut sorbet alongside the pie to create a complementary tropical flavor experience.

How to Store Mary Berry Key Lime Pie After Serving

• Wrap the key lime pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent absorption of other food odors.
• Carefully wrap the entire pie or individual slices in multiple layers of plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for maximum 1-2 months. Place in an airtight container for extra protection.
• Transfer frozen pie from freezer to refrigerator and let it slowly defrost overnight. Never thaw at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth and maintain texture.
• For best results, serve chilled directly from the refrigerator. If desired, let the pie sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften the cream topping slightly.

Questions About Mary Berry Key Lime Pie Answered

• What is the origin of Key Lime Pie?

This classic dessert originated in Florida Keys in the late 19th century, created by local cook using condensed milk and key limes that were abundant in the region.

• Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes, you can substitute regular limes if key limes are unavailable. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

• How do I know if my pie filling is set correctly?

The filling should be firm and not wobble when gently shaken. It will set properly after chilling in the refrigerator for the recommended time.

• Is this dessert very sweet?

Key Lime Pie has a balanced sweetness from condensed milk, with a tangy lime flavor that cuts through the richness, creating a refreshing dessert.

Why Mary Berry Key Lime Pie Is a Zesty Favorite

• Savor Tropical Simplicity: This key lime pie brings the essence of a Caribbean getaway right to your kitchen with minimal ingredients and straightforward steps.
• Create Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, and summer parties, this recipe guarantees smiles and second helpings from everyone around the table.
• Master No-Bake Magic: Requiring zero oven time, this dessert allows you to craft a decadent treat without breaking a sweat, making it ideal for warm days and busy cooks.
• Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe lets you adjust garnishes, experiment with cream toppings, or add personal touches like extra lime zest or chocolate shavings to make it uniquely yours.

Key Lime Pie Recipe

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4.9 from 23 reviews

• Total Time: 24 hours and 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Irresistible key lime pie brings zesty Caribbean sunshine to dessert tables with creamy lime custard and graham cracker crust. Tangy sweetness and cool refreshment promise delightful moments you’ll savor to the last delicious bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 397 grams (14 ounces) condensed milk
• 4 large limes (juice)
• 450 milliliters (2 cups) double cream
• 1 large lime (grated rind)

Crust Ingredients:

• 150 grams (5.3 ounces) digestive biscuits
• 65 grams (2.3 ounces) butter
• 25 grams (0.9 ounces) demerara sugar

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Instructions

1. Transform digestive biscuits into fine, powdery crumbs using a food processor or rolling pin.
2. Combine melted butter with sugar, thoroughly mixing into the biscuit crumbs to create a cohesive base mixture.
3. Carefully press the crumb mixture into a 23cm tart tin, ensuring an even, compact layer across the bottom and sides.
4. Refrigerate the prepared crust for 30 minutes to solidify and set the base.
5. Whisk together fresh lime juice, vibrant lime zest, sweetened condensed milk, and 300ml of cream until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
6. Gently pour the lime filling into the chilled crust, using a spatula to create an even, level surface.
7. Refrigerate the pie for approximately 4-5 hours until the filling is completely set and firm.
8. Whip the remaining 150ml of cream until soft, billowy peaks form.
9. Just before serving, delicately garnish the pie with the whipped cream and sprinkle additional lime zest on top for a burst of citrusy flavor.

Notes

• Achieve ultra-fine biscuit crumbs by using a food processor for consistent texture and smoother base.
• Ensure butter is fully melted and evenly mixed to create a stable, compact crust that won’t crumble when slicing.
• Chill crust thoroughly to help it set firmly and prevent sogginess, allowing clean and precise pie cuts.
• Swap digestive biscuits with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or graham crackers for dietary restrictions.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Chilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 444
• Sugar: 41g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 1.5g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 80mg