Mmm, Key Lime Pie. Sweet, tart, tangy, and refreshing…there’s simply no better treat on a too-hot afternoon in Key West. Coupled with a cafecito, it’s the perfect thing to get you going after your mid-day siesta.
Here’s a look at the perfect, authentic Key Lime Pie, plus some ideas on where to try to find the best Key Lime Pie in Key West.
What Is Key Lime Pie?
First off, we’d better be clear about something right from the top. Key Limes are not regular limes you’d buy at your grocery store. They are not really green, even.
Key Limes are smaller than those regular Persian Limes, only about one inch in diameter. They have very thin rinds, are more acidic, and are almost yellow when ripe. They have a stronger flavor, too, that’s more like both lemon and lime at the same time. And, for the record, they also come from many parts of the Middle Americas and the Caribbean. In fact, they are called Mexican Limes in most other places.
Key Limes took off in popularity in Florida around 1900. A bad winter led to a freeze that killed off most of Florida’s lemon crop. Farmers planted Mexican Limes in their place and named them “Florida Key Limes” This lasted until the Great Miami Hurricane of 1926, which destroyed those groves as well.
But during those boom years for the Key Lime, Florida made the most of it. It became a regional specialty item, and while it was in supply, cooks found all sorts of things to do with it. Using real key lime juice is essential for creating an authentic Key Lime Pie that captures the true essence of the region.
History of Key Lime Pie
Key lime pie has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the late 19th century in the Florida Keys. The pie is believed to have originated in Key West, where key limes were abundant and readily available. The first key lime pies were made with fresh key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and eggs, and were baked in a thick graham cracker crust. Over time, the recipe for key lime pie has evolved, but the traditional ingredients and methods have remained largely unchanged. Today, key lime pie is a beloved dessert throughout the Florida Keys and beyond, with many restaurants and bakeries offering their own unique variations.
Which Brings Us to Key Lime Pie...
Food historians (yeah, that’s a thing) believe that Key Lime Pie was likely a local variation of the Magic Lemon Cream Pie recipe included in a 1931 promotion for Borden condensed milk. The recipe was simple and tasty. Cooks everywhere began making subtle regional changes depending on what they had on hand.
Aunt Sally is often highlighted as a pivotal figure in the history of Key lime pie. She is associated with wealthy ship salvager William Curry and is credited with refining a recipe that transformed it into a cherished dessert in Key West’s culinary landscape. Her contributions helped cement the pie’s legacy, and various origin stories are linked to her character.
In Key West, what they had on hand were Key Limes…so it takes no leap of imagination to figure out that they’d make a Key Lime Pie. The first mentions of the recipe come from a 1933 Miami newspaper, and a Florida Keys specialty “icebox lime pie” recipe was mentioned in 1935. Some people think it was popular before these references, but these are the first written records of its existence.
Getting The Right Juice
Key Limes have not been grown commercially in the US since the 1926 hurricane that wiped out the Florida groves. To get the right thing, you need a local friend who has a Key Lime tree growing in their yard or to buy some of the imported concentrated juice you can find on most grocery store shelves. Most stores carry it, and it’s imported from Central America.
Using regular lime juice or Persian Lime Juice and calling it a Key Lime Pie is a crime in Florida. Ok, not really…but almost! A Florida Representative tried to get that law passed in 1965 but sadly failed. Which is a real shame—you should go to prison if you try that. For the best flavor, always use fresh limes, ideally sourced from local dooryard fruit trees in the Florida Keys.
The Qualities of a Perfect Key Lime Pie
You have now arrived at the most controversial section of this article, where I lay out what constitutes the perfect Key Lime Pie. You do not have to agree with everything here, but it is on the internet, so it is right and you are wrong.
First, the basics we can all agree on. Key Lime Pie is a custard pie based on Borden’s original recipe. Custards include milk and eggs, in this case, sweetened condensed milk and eggs from chickens. Please keep your parrot, goose, and seagull eggs for other uses.
The flavor comes from Key Limes, which we’ve already covered. They’re yellow, not green. They come from the Keys or Central or South America if you’re in a real pinch.
Next, the custard needs to be held together in a pie shape with a creamy filling that balances the tartness of the Key limes. The classic foundation is a basic graham cracker pie crust. I’m not sure when that caught on, but I can’t imagine it any other way now. Some people like nuts in the crust, too, like crushed Macadamia nuts. Fancy, but I approve.
There are two ways to cook your Key Lime Pie. Nearly all recipes today are baked until the custard has set and then chilled before serving. But there are also icebox pies that simply freeze the custard. The problem with this is that it involves eating raw eggs, and due to global politics, an out-of-control legal system, and “food safety issues”, you probably won’t get to try that one. That’s okay, though; we’ll just keep the Icebox Key Lime Pie as a local’s secret.
A good crust is essential for the perfect Key Lime Pie. Nearly all recipes today are baked until the custard has set and then chilled before serving. But there are also icebox pies that simply freeze the custard. The problem with this is that it involves eating raw eggs, and due to global politics, an out-of-control legal system, and “food safety issues”, you probably won’t get to try that one. That’s okay, though; we’ll just keep the Icebox Key Lime Pie as a local’s secret.
Next, for the real drama—what goes on top of a proper Key Lime Pie? There are two options, and I suppose each has pros and cons.
The first option is meringue—heavenly, fluffy, pillowy whipped egg whites toasted to perfection with just a hint of sweetness. The lightness of the meringue contrasts nicely with the thick custard of the pie, and the subtle sweetness doesn’t cover up the flavor of the tart Key Limes. Meringue must be fresh, and it requires some effort to make. Therefore, when you find good meringue, appreciate it. Indeed, it’s becoming a rare thing.
Then there are those who believe whipped cream belongs on a Key Lime Pie. Whipped cream is appropriate if, and only if, you did the whipping yourself and started with cream.
If it comes out of a spray can, or—heaven forbid, I can’t even write it—a tub, you may turn around and continue driving north on US 1 until you are back on the mainland. Just. Get. Out. Restaurants caught serving pre-fab whipped toppings should likewise be evicted.
So, there you have it, the basics of the perfect Key Lime Pie.
The Importance of Graham Cracker Crust
A good graham cracker crust is essential to a traditional key lime pie. The crust provides a crunchy texture and a sweet flavor that complements the tangy key lime filling. To make a perfect graham cracker crust, it’s important to use high-quality graham crackers, brown sugar, and melted butter. The crust should be baked until it’s lightly browned and set, then filled with the key lime filling and baked until the filling is set. A thick graham cracker crust is a hallmark of a traditional key lime pie, and it’s what sets this dessert apart from other types of lime pies.
Key Lime Pie Recipe
To make a traditional key lime pie, you’ll need the following ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup melted butter, 3 large egg yolks, 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice, 1 cup sweetened condensed milk, and 1 teaspoon grated lime zest. Preheat your oven to 350°F, then mix the graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until well combined. Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish and bake until lightly browned. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, key lime juice, and sweetened condensed milk until well combined. Pour the filling into the baked pie crust and bake until the filling is set. Allow the pie to cool, then refrigerate until chilled. Serve with whipped cream and a sprinkle of lime zest, if desired.
Key Lime Pie Variations
While traditional key lime pie is a classic, there are many variations of this dessert that are worth trying. Some popular variations include strawberry key lime pie, which adds fresh strawberries to the filling for a sweet and tangy flavor combination. Another variation is the key lime pie with a twist, which adds a layer of chocolate or nuts to the filling for added flavor and texture. You can also try using different types of milk, such as coconut milk or almond milk, to create a non-dairy version of the pie. Whatever variation you choose, be sure to use high-quality ingredients and traditional methods to ensure the best flavor and texture.
Places to Try the Best Lime Pie in Key West
If making one sounds like a lot of work, you’re in luck. Pretty much every business in Key West sells Key Lime Pie. There’s also a variety of other things flavored with Key Limes you can try, like ice cream, sodas, and who-knows-what-else. Just stop by any restaurant, bar, bakery, cafe, coffee shop, t-shirt shop, dance club…you get the idea. It’s everywhere. The pursuit of the best slice of Key lime pie is a beloved local tradition that enhances any visit to the area.
There are all sorts of fancy-pants chefs who come from all over the world to mess with it and leave their mark on it. I suppose it’s fun to try, and I can’t complain about there being more pie to try. But Key Lime Pie is already here and already marked, ok? Fried? Chocolate covered? On a stick? WTF?
Here’s a little local tip for you, though. One of the best Key Lime Pies you can buy comes from the Publix bakery. That’s right, walk in, grab it, pay for it (optional, though recommended), walk out, and eat it. It’s delicious. No fancy-pants chef skills needed.
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For a unique experience, visit Blue Heaven in Key West. Known for its famous towering meringue topping and unique garden setting, Blue Heaven offers a distinct presentation of Key lime pie that is a must-try.
Kermit's Key Lime Shop
Another great spot is Kermit’s Key Lime Shop, renowned for its long-standing reputation and variety of key lime treats. With multiple locations, it’s accessible and ideal for both newcomers and seasoned key lime pie enthusiasts.
A&B Lobster House Key Lime Pie
If you’re saving room for dessert, the Key lime pie at A&B Lobster House is worth it. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a smooth, creamy filling that’s true to the classic Key West favorite. Instead of whipped cream, it’s topped with a light meringue that adds just the right touch without overpowering the pie. The graham cracker crust is everything you’d hope for—thick, buttery, and just the right amount of crunch. It’s all served over a strawberry reduction, which adds a subtle burst of fruity flavor that complements the citrus surprisingly well. It’s a thoughtful twist on a local classic and an easy dessert to recommend.
Key lime pie is a beloved dessert that’s steeped in history and tradition. With its tangy key lime filling, sweet graham cracker crust, and creamy texture, it’s a dessert that’s sure to please even the most discerning palate. Whether you’re a fan of traditional key lime pie or prefer one of the many variations, there’s no denying the appeal of this classic dessert. So next time you’re in the Florida Keys, be sure to stop by one of the many restaurants or bakeries that serve key lime pie, and taste the magic for yourself. With its perfect blend of tangy and sweet flavors, key lime pie is a dessert that’s sure to become a favorite.
Looking for Another Great Key West Treat?
Whether you’re chasing the perfect slice of Key lime pie or soaking up every bit of island sunshine, Key West is all about savoring the moment. After you’ve tasted the best, treat yourself to a private sandbar charter with Casual Monday Charters—because dessert is better with your toes in the sand and a drink in hand.
