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Hairy Bikers Key Lime Pie

Hairy Bikers Key Lime Pie recipe

This Hairy Bikers-inspired Key lime pie features a crisp, buttery graham cracker crust filled with a luxuriously creamy and tangy lime custard. Topped with lightly sweetened whipped cream, it offers a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors with a smooth, set texture that melts in the mouth.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs, finely ground (from about 12 whole graham crackers)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 3 large egg yolks, at room temperature
  • 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup key lime juice, freshly squeezed (or bottled key lime juice)
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest, finely grated
  • 1 cup heavy cream, cold
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F / 177°C. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Pour in melted butter and mix with a fork until the crumbs are evenly moistened and the mixture resembles wet sand; this ensures the crust holds together when pressed.
  2. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or glass to compact it evenly, creating a uniform layer about 1/4-inch thick. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes until the crust is lightly golden and set. Remove and let cool on a wire rack while preparing the filling; do not turn off the oven.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they are pale and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes. This incorporates air for a smoother filling and helps prevent graininess.
  4. Add the sweetened condensed milk to the egg yolks and whisk vigorously until fully combined and the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes. Ensure no streaks remain for a consistent texture.
  5. Gradually whisk in the key lime juice and lime zest until the filling is homogenous. The acid from the lime juice will begin to thicken the mixture; avoid overmixing to prevent incorporating too much air, which can cause bubbles in the baked pie.
  6. Pour the filling into the cooled crust and spread it evenly with a spatula. Tap the pie dish gently on the counter to release any air bubbles, which helps achieve a smooth surface after baking.
  7. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F / 163°C. Bake the pie for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when shaken. This ensures a creamy texture without overcooking, which can make the filling rubbery.
  8. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until fully set and chilled; this step is crucial for slicing cleanly.
  9. For the whipped cream, place a mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 10 minutes to chill. Pour cold heavy cream into the chilled bowl, add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
  10. Using an electric mixer on medium-high speed, beat the cream until stiff peaks form, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to overbeat, or it will turn into butter; stop when the cream holds its shape when the beaters are lifted.
  11. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie. Optionally, garnish with additional lime zest or lime slices for a fresh, decorative touch.
  12. Serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve. For best texture, keep the pie chilled, and use a warm knife to slice for clean cuts.

Notes

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the pie without whipped cream for up to 1 month; wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then thaw in the refrigerator overnight before adding topping. To serve, slice with a warm knife for clean cuts, and let sit at room temperature for 5 minutes to enhance flavor.

Nutrition

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