The Best Coconut Key Lime Pie 🥧🥥

Introduction

Welcome to this delightful recipe for the best coconut key lime pie! If you’re a fan of the tropical flavors of coconut and tangy key lime, then this dessert is a must-try. The creamy filling, buttery crust, and refreshing lime zest combine perfectly with the tropical twist of coconut to create a pie that will transport you to a sunny beach paradise. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a tropical treat, this coconut key lime pie is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the crust:

– 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs

– ¼ cup of granulated sugar

– ½ cup of unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

– 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk

– ½ cup of key lime juice

– 1 tablespoon of key lime zest

– 3 egg yolks

– 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract

– 1 cup of shredded coconut

For the topping:

– 1 ½ cups of heavy cream

– 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar

– ½ teaspoon of pure vanilla extract

– Additional key lime zest and shredded coconut for garnish

Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter for the crust. Mix until well combined.

2. Press the crust mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool completely.

3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, key lime zest, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

4. Gently fold in the shredded coconut until evenly distributed throughout the filling mixture.

5. Pour the filling into the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set.

6. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the pie to fully set.

Variations

If you’re looking to add your own twist to this classic coconut key lime pie recipe, here are a few variations you can try:

– Coconut Graham Cracker Crust: Swap out the regular graham cracker crumbs for coconut-flavored graham cracker crumbs to enhance the coconut flavor even more.

– Toasted Coconut Topping: Sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes on top of the whipped cream for an extra burst of coconut goodness.

– Lime Zest Whipped Cream: Add some key lime zest to the whipped cream topping for an additional tangy kick.

Tips

1. Make sure to use key lime juice for the authentic flavor. Regular lime juice can be used as a substitute, but it won’t have the same tangy taste.

2. To easily extract the juice from key limes, roll them on a hard surface before cutting and squeezing.

3. For a smoother filling, strain the key lime juice before adding it to the mixture to remove any pulp or seeds.

4. Toasting the shredded coconut before adding it to the filling will enhance its flavor and give it a slightly nutty taste.

5. For a decorative touch, garnish the pie with additional key lime zest and shredded coconut before serving.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this coconut key lime pie is the ultimate tropical dessert that will transport your taste buds to paradise. With its creamy filling, buttery crust, and refreshing lime zest, it’s a perfect balance of flavors that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or simply treating yourself to a delicious dessert, this coconut key lime pie is a showstopper that will impress everyone.

FAQs

Q: Can I use store-bought graham cracker crust instead of making my own?

A: Absolutely! If you’re short on time or prefer the convenience, a store-bought graham cracker crust can be used as a substitute. Simply follow the instructions on the packaging for best results.

Q: Can I freeze the pie for later?

A: Yes, you can freeze the pie for up to 1 month. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before freezing. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Q: Is it necessary to refrigerate the pie before serving?

A: Yes, refrigerating the pie for at least 4 hours, or overnight, is necessary to allow the flavors to meld together and the filling to fully set. This will ensure the best texture and taste.

Q: Can I use sweetened shredded coconut instead of unsweetened?

A: Yes, you can use sweetened shredded coconut if you prefer a slightly sweeter filling. Just keep in mind that it may affect the overall sweetness of the pie.