Key lime pie

Key Lime Pie

File:Key lime pie.jpg

A slice of key lime pie garnished with lime zest.

Key lime pie is a classic American dessert that originated in the Florida Keys. It is known for its tart, creamy filling made from Key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolks, all nestled in a graham cracker crust. The pie is often topped with whipped cream or a meringue topping.

History

The origins of key lime pie are somewhat unclear, but it is widely believed to have been created in the late 19th century in the Florida Keys. The pie's creation is attributed to the availability of Key limes, which were abundant in the region before the 1926 hurricane that destroyed many of the lime groves. The use of sweetened condensed milk was a practical choice, as fresh milk and refrigeration were not readily available in the Keys at the time.

Ingredients

The traditional ingredients for key lime pie include:

• Key lime juice: The juice of Key limes is more aromatic and tart compared to regular Persian limes. It is a crucial component that gives the pie its distinctive flavor.
• Sweetened condensed milk: This thick, sweet milk is used to create the creamy texture of the filling.
• Egg yolks: These are used to thicken the filling and add richness.
• Graham cracker crust: Made from crushed graham crackers, sugar, and butter, this crust provides a sweet and crunchy base for the pie.

Preparation

File:Key lime pie preparation.jpg

Preparing the key lime pie filling.

To prepare key lime pie, the graham cracker crust is first baked and allowed to cool. The filling is made by whisking together the Key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolks until smooth. This mixture is poured into the crust and baked until set. Once cooled, the pie is often chilled before serving.

Variations

While the classic key lime pie is made with a graham cracker crust, some variations use a pastry crust. Additionally, some recipes call for a meringue topping made from the leftover egg whites, while others prefer a dollop of whipped cream.

Serving

Key lime pie is typically served chilled, often garnished with lime slices or zest. It is a popular dessert choice in the summer months due to its refreshing taste.

Related Pages

• Florida Keys
• Key lime
• Lime (fruit)
• Pie