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–+ servings
Frozen Key Lime Pie
Frozen Key Lime Pie is a classic Florida dessert closely associated with the Florida Keys, where key limes thrive in the warm coastal climate. This version reflects a mid-20th-century style popularized by local shops and home cooks in Key West, including adaptations shared by candy stores and cafés catering to visitors seeking a cool, citrusy finish to a meal. Unlike baked custard pies, this frozen preparation relies on condensed milk, egg yolks, and fresh key lime juice to create a silky, tart-sweet filling that sets in the freezer. Its bright flavor, creamy texture, and refreshing chill made it especially appealing in hot, humid weather, helping it become an iconic regional dessert with enduring appeal.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Freezing time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 25 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 360 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ⅓ cup melted butter
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 2 egg yolks
  • 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
  • ½ cup fresh key lime juice
  • 1 tbsp key lime zest

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  • Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
  • Press firmly into a 9-inch pie pan.

Step 2: Chill the Crust

  • Place crust in the freezer while preparing the filling.

Step 3: Mix Egg Yolks

  • Beat egg yolks until thick and pale.

Step 4: Add Condensed Milk

  • Slowly blend in sweetened condensed milk until smooth.

Step 5: Add Lime Juice and Zest

  • Stir in key lime juice and zest until fully combined.

Step 6: Fill the Crust

  • Pour filling into chilled crust and smooth the top.

Step 7: Freeze

  • Freeze until firm, at least 4 hours or overnight.

Tips

  • Use bottled key lime juice if fresh is unavailable
  • Add whipped cream topping before serving
  • Freeze in individual tart pans for single servings
  • Substitute digestive biscuits for graham crackers
  • Add a pinch of salt to enhance citrus flavor
  • Garnish with lime slices or zest curls
  • Let sit 5 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts

Nutrition

Calories: 360kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 6gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 115mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 210mgFiber: 1gSugar: 32gVitamin A: 650IUVitamin C: 18mgCalcium: 160mgIron: 0.9mg
Keyword citrus pie, Florida recipe, frozen dessert, key lime, retro dessert, vintage baking
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