Best Key Lime Pie In Key West Recipe
Introduction
If you are a fan of pies, especially citrusy ones, then you must have heard of the famous Key Lime Pie. This dessert is a staple in the Florida Keys, particularly Key West, where it originated. The dish is so popular that it has even been designated as the official pie of Florida. The pie's tangy and sweet flavor profile makes it an excellent choice for any occasion, from summer picnics to holiday dinners.
History of Key Lime Pie
The exact origins of Key Lime Pie are unclear. However, many believe that the dessert was created by sponge fishermen in the Florida Keys in the late 1800s. The pie was a favorite among these fishermen due to its simplicity and the availability of ingredients. The original recipe consisted of sweetened condensed milk, Key lime juice, and graham cracker crust.
Ingredients
To make the best Key Lime Pie in Key West, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup of unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup of granulated sugar
- 4 egg yolks
- 14 oz. of sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup of Key lime juice
- 2 tsp. of Key lime zest
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until well combined.
3. Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish, making sure to cover the bottom and sides evenly.
4. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, or until it is lightly browned. Remove from the oven and let it cool.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they are light and fluffy.
6. Add the sweetened condensed milk, Key lime juice, and Key lime zest to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
7. Pour the mixture into the cooled pie crust.
8. Bake the pie for 15 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
9. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
10. Chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
11. Top the pie with whipped cream, if desired.
Tips for Making the Best Key Lime Pie in Key West
To make the best Key Lime Pie in Key West, follow these tips:
- Use fresh Key lime juice for the best flavor.
- Make sure the pie crust is evenly pressed into the dish to prevent any cracks or gaps.
- Bake the crust before adding the filling to ensure it is crispy and holds together well.
- Do not overbake the pie filling. The center should still be slightly jiggly when you remove it from the oven.
- Chill the pie for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the filling to set properly.
Conclusion
The Best Key Lime Pie in Key West Recipe is a classic dessert that everyone should try at least once. This recipe is easy to follow and yields a deliciously tangy and sweet pie that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are a fan of citrusy desserts or just looking for a taste of Florida, this Key Lime Pie recipe is sure to be a hit.