Mini Key Lime Pies Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to this delightful recipe for Mini Key Lime Pies! If you’re a fan of tangy and refreshing desserts, these mini pies are the perfect treat for you. Made with fresh key lime juice and a buttery graham cracker crust, these individual-sized pies are bursting with flavor. Whether you’re planning a dinner party or simply want to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to please. Read on to learn how to make these delicious Mini Key Lime Pies.

Ingredients

For the crust:

– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

– 1/4 cup granulated sugar

– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

– 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk

– 1/2 cup key lime juice

– 1 tablespoon key lime zest

– 3 large egg yolks

– Whipped cream, for garnish

– Lime slices, for garnish

Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.

3. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a muffin tin, forming a crust for each mini pie.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, key lime zest, and egg yolks until well combined.

5. Pour the filling over the crusts, filling each muffin cup about three-quarters full.

6. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the pies are set and the edges are lightly golden.

7. Remove the pies from the oven and let them cool completely in the muffin tin.

8. Once cooled, carefully remove the mini pies from the tin and transfer them to a serving plate.

9. Garnish each pie with a dollop of whipped cream and a slice of lime.

Variations

Want to add a twist to your Mini Key Lime Pies? Here are a few variations you can try:

– Substitute graham cracker crumbs with crushed vanilla wafers for a different crust flavor.

– Add a tablespoon of coconut milk to the filling mixture for a tropical twist.

– Top each pie with a sprinkle of toasted coconut for added texture.

Tips

Follow these tips to ensure your Mini Key Lime Pies turn out perfectly:

– Use fresh key lime juice for the best flavor. If you can’t find key limes, regular lime juice will work as well.

– Make sure to fully combine the filling ingredients to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

– Allow the pies to cool completely before removing them from the muffin tin to prevent them from falling apart.

– For an extra tangy flavor, add an extra tablespoon of key lime zest to the filling mixture.

Conclusion

These Mini Key Lime Pies are a delightful dessert that will impress your guests or simply satisfy your craving for a tangy and refreshing treat. With their buttery graham cracker crust and zesty key lime filling, these individual-sized pies are bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want to indulge in a homemade dessert, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy!

FAQs

Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh key lime juice?

While fresh key lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, you can use bottled lime juice as a substitute if needed. Just make sure to choose a high-quality brand to ensure a good taste.

Can I make these pies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the Mini Key Lime Pies a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just make sure to add the whipped cream and lime slices right before serving to keep them fresh.

Can I freeze these pies?

Yes, you can freeze the Mini Key Lime Pies for up to 2 months. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before freezing. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I use a different type of crust?

While the graham cracker crust is traditional for key lime pies, you can experiment with different crusts if desired. Some popular alternatives include shortbread crusts, Oreo crusts, or even a nut-based crust.