This simple yet refreshing No Bake Key Lime Pie is the perfect summertime dessert.
This refreshing and easy-to-make dessert is a classic straight out of the Florida Keys! While the recipe is simple, the history behind it is a little more complicated. While we know this sweet treat most likely originated in the Key West region of Florida as the perfect dessert to beat the heat, it’s unclear exactly who created it. There are stories of “Aunt Sally,” a cook who allegedly created the key lime pie in the late 1800s for a wealthy Key West resident named William Curry. Although this may be true, there is no definitive proof of her existence (or her recipe). On the other hand, the first official written record of anything resembling a key lime pie dates back to 1931. Some people give credit to the Borden company, which published a recipe titled “Magic Lemon Cream Pie” in an ad for sweetened condensed milk. The dessert was made exactly the same way as key lime pie, only with lemons. Who knew it would be hard to keep up with the history of the key lime pie? For such a laid back dessert, it sure has a lot of drama surrounding it!
Regardless of who came up with it first, I believe we all owe them a big thank you for giving us one of the most refreshing desserts of the summer. The shelf-stable ingredients of the key lime pie suggest that the lack of reliable refrigeration during this time period might have led to its creation. Using canned condensed milk was more convenient than using fresh dairy that required refrigeration. Due to these circumstances and some creativity in the kitchen, the key lime pie was born! With its custard-like filling and a sweetness that is balanced by the zesty lime flavor, it’s a light dessert that has proven to be a crowd-pleaser during hot summer months.
An Easy Summer Staple
With its straightforward instructions and a short ingredients list, this recipe is essentially foolproof for anyone who makes it. There is flavor packed in every bite, with minimal time and effort spent in the kitchen to get it. It really is a summertime dessert dream! The ingredients are convenient and easy to find at most supermarkets, making it one of the best options to throw together quickly before a cookout, potluck, or block party. Because there is no baking required and it needs to be chilled for a minimum of 4 hours, it’s also a perfect recipe to make ahead of time and leave in the fridge overnight.
FAQs & Tips
How to Make Ahead and Store?
This key lime pie can be stored tightly covered in the refrigerator. This will keep it fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, but any longer may result in a soggy crust. If you’re making this recipe more than 1-2 days ahead, you’ll want to consider freezing it instead to preserve its proper texture. You can store the pie in the freezer after letting it fully set in the fridge. You’ll then wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, storing it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to serve, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Why Is My Key Lime Pie Runny?
If the texture of your pie seems off, it is most likely due to its temperature. Leaving the pie to chill for several hours (overnight is best!) is key to achieving the smooth, velvety texture.
Can I Use Regular Lime Juice?
Regular bottled lime juice might be easier to find in your local supermarket, and it is totally fine to use that in this recipe instead of key lime juice. The flavor may be altered slightly, but it will still be delicious!
Serving Suggestions
If you’re anything like me, this pie will not last very long in the house, and you’ll soon be on the hunt for other go-to desserts to ride out the summer. You can give these other pies a try, such as a classic Oreo Pie (also no-bake!), a creamy Peanut Butter Pie, or this deliciously different Bailey’s Irish Cream Pie. This Cookies and Cream Icebox Cake is another no-bake option that won’t require the oven, making it another perfect dessert for the summer. Or you always have the option of making an Ice Cream Cake, a timeless favorite. And don’t forget, since this no-bake key lime pie was so easy to throw together, you can just make it all over again. The sweet treat options are endless this summer!
No Bake Key Lime Pie
Ingredients
- 1 14-oz can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice
- 1 8-oz tub whipped topping, thawed
- 1 9-inch graham cracker crust
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk and key lime juice until well combined.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and even.
- Pour the filling into the graham cracker crust, smoothing out the top with a spatula.
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is firm and set.
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