Key Lime Margarita Pie Recipe

Ingredients

Crust

• 1 1/4 cups finely crushed graham crackers
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup sugar

Filling

• 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
• 1-2 teaspoons lime zest (grated lime peel)
• 1/2 cup key lime juice (regular lime juice can be substituted)
• 8 ounces sweetened whipped heavy cream (or Cool Whip topping)

Instructions

Preparing the Crust

1. Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar. Ensure the mixture is well-blended.
2. Form the Crust: Press the mixture evenly into a 9-inch pie tin, covering the bottom and sides.
3. Chill: Place the crust in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.

Making the Filling

1. Zest and Juice: Grate 1-2 teaspoons of lime zest and juice the key limes to get 1/2 cup of juice.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a second mixing bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, and lime zest.
3. Fold in Whipped Cream: Gently fold in the sweetened whipped heavy cream or Cool Whip topping until well combined.
4. Fill the Crust: Pour the filling into the prepared graham cracker crust.
5. Chill: Refrigerate the pie for 1-2 hours or until completely chilled.

Optional Garnish

• Whipped Cream: Use a piping bag to add decorative whipped cream around the edges.
• Lime Zest: Sprinkle additional lime zest on top for a finishing touch.

Interesting Facts and Stats

• Key Limes vs. Regular Limes: Key limes are smaller, more aromatic, and have a more intense flavor compared to regular limes. They are primarily grown in Florida and Mexico.
• Nutritional Value: One slice of Key Lime Pie contains approximately 350 calories, 15 grams of fat, and 45 grams of carbohydrates (source: USDA).
• Popularity: Key Lime Pie is the official state pie of Florida, designated in 2006 (source: Florida Senate).

Tips for Success

• Availability of Key Limes: Key limes are available year-round in many grocery stores, but if you can't find them, regular limes are a suitable substitute.
• Whipping Cream: When whipping heavy cream, be careful not to over-whip, as it can turn into butter. Aim for soft peaks.

Conclusion

This Key Lime Margarita Pie is a delightful blend of tart and sweet, perfect for any dessert table. With its easy preparation and versatile ingredients, it's a recipe you'll want to make again and again. Enjoy the refreshing taste and impress your guests with this elegant dessert!

Chef Shelley Pogue, a Cum Laude graduate of Le Cordon Bleu and Executive Research and Development Chef at Vertical Sales and Marketing, San Ramon, CA.

Article Source: EzineArticles