Effortless No-Bake Key Lime Pie: Tangy Perfection in Every Slice!
Craving that iconic tart and sweet flavor of Key Lime Pie but don't want to turn on the oven? Look no further! This no-bake Key Lime Pie recipe is your answer to creamy, dreamy citrus perfection. It's surprisingly simple to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers that classic tangy zing we all adore. Get ready for a slice of sunshine that's as easy as it is delicious!
Equipment
- 9-inch graham cracker pie crust (store-bought or homemade - see tips!)
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Optional: Zester
Ingredients
- 1 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup fresh Key lime juice about 10-12 Key limes
- 1 teaspoon Key lime zest optional, for extra flavor
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- Optional garnishes: whipped cream lime slices, extra lime zest
Instructions
- Prep Your Crust: If you're using a store-bought graham cracker crust, you're already one step ahead! If you're feeling a little ambitious, check out the tips below for a super easy homemade version. Place your crust on a plate or pie dish, ready to embrace that luscious filling.
- Creamy Dream Base: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. This ensures there are no lumps in your 1 beautiful pie filling, as smooth as a gentle breeze.
- Sweeten the Deal: Gradually beat in the sweetened condensed milk until well combined and the mixture is smooth. This is where that perfect sweetness starts to develop, balancing the tartness to come.
- Key Lime Zing!: With the mixer on low speed, slowly pour in the fresh Key lime juice and the optional Key lime zest. Mix until just combined and the filling starts to thicken slightly, promising that delightful tang that makes Key Lime Pie so irresistible. Don't overmix at this stage.
- Pour and Chill: Pour the creamy Key lime filling evenly into your prepared graham cracker crust. It's like pouring sunshine into a shell!
- Chill for Perfection: Cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the pie to set completely. This chilling time is crucial for that perfect sliceable consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Once chilled, slice and serve your delightful no-bake Key Lime Pie! Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream, a thin slice of fresh lime, or a sprinkle of extra lime zest for a pop of color and flavor.