Ingredients
Graham cracker crumbs – 1 ½ cups (about 10-12 full sheets. Use digestive biscuits for a similar effect.)
Granulated sugar – 1/3 cup (For the crust. Can use brown sugar for a molasses note.)
Unsalted butter, melted – 6 tablespoons (Ensures a rich, cohesive crust. Use ghee for a nuttier flavor.)
Sweetened condensed milk – 14 ounces (The base of the creamy filling. Essential for texture and sweetness.)
Large egg yolks – 4 (Adds richness and helps the filling set. Ensure fresh eggs.)
Key lime juice – 2/3 cup (Freshly squeezed is best. Bottled can work, but flavor will vary.)
Lime zest – 1 teaspoon (From about 2 limes. Enhances the lime aroma and flavor.)
Whipped cream – For garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C)
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press the mixture into the bottom and sides of 12 mini pie tins or molds using the back of a spoon or a small jar to tightly pack the crusts.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the crusts are golden, then let cool completely in the tins.
In a large bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, key lime juice, and lime zest until smooth and well blended.
Pour the mixture evenly into the cooled crusts.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the filling is fully set.
Before serving, top with whipped cream and an additional lime zest (optional).
Notes
For best flavor, use freshly squeezed key lime juice for authentic taste. Digestive biscuits make a suitable substitute for graham crackers. Ghee can be used in the crust for a nuttier flavor. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to ensure the filling sets properly.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Classic American Cake Recipes
- Method: Baking and Chilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini pie
- Calories: 125
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4.2g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 2.5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg