Deliciously Tangy Key Lime Pie Recipe
Key lime pie is a delicious and popular dessert that has been around for centuries. It is an American classic that has become a favorite of many. The pie is made with graham cracker crust and a filling of sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, lime juice, and lime zest. The pie is then topped with whipped cream or meringue.
Origin of Key Lime Pie
Key lime pie is believed to have originated in the Florida Keys in the late 19th century. It was made by the Key West sponge fishermen who used the ingredients that were readily available to them, including sweetened condensed milk and Key limes. The pie was made in a wooden box, which gave it its name. The pie was then served in a glass dish and topped with a meringue.
Ingredients
The traditional ingredients for key lime pie are graham cracker crust, sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, lime juice, and lime zest. Variations of the recipe may include other ingredients such as cream cheese, coconut, and sour cream. The ingredients are combined and then poured into the prepared graham cracker crust.
Graham Cracker Crust
The graham cracker crust is the base of the key lime pie. The crust is made with graham crackers, butter, and sugar. The graham crackers are crushed and then mixed with the butter and sugar until it forms a crumbly texture. The crust is then pressed into the bottom and sides of a pie plate.
Filling
The filling for key lime pie is made with sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, lime juice, and lime zest. The egg yolks are beaten together with the sweetened condensed milk until it forms a thick custard-like texture. The lime juice and zest are then added and mixed until it is fully combined. The filling is then poured into the prepared graham cracker crust and baked in the oven until it is set.
Toppings
The traditional topping for key lime pie is a meringue. The meringue is made with egg whites, sugar, and cream of tartar. The egg whites are beaten until they are stiff and then the sugar and cream of tartar are added. The meringue is then spread over the top of the pie and baked until it is lightly browned.
Whipped cream is also a popular topping for key lime pie. The cream is whipped until it is thick and then spread over the top of the pie. The cream can be flavored with vanilla, coconut, or other flavors.
Serving
Key lime pie is typically served chilled or at room temperature. It can be served with a scoop of ice cream, whipped cream, or other toppings. It is a delicious and refreshing dessert that is perfect for any occasion.
