There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a pie cooling on the windowsill, the sweet scent of citrus drifting through the air. As the sun sets and the fireflies start to dance, there’s almost a magnetic pull to gather ‘round the table and share stories with loved ones. Triple Decker Key Lime Pie is that special treat that brings back memories of family picnics and lazy summer afternoons, where laughter fills the air and every slice is a slice of sunshine.
Why make this recipe?
Imagine a dessert that combines that classic key lime tartness with the rich creaminess of cheesecake and the lightness of whipped cream, all stacked beautifully in a tender, buttery crust. It’s a delightful journey for your taste buds, and the best part is, it’s downright simple to make. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a family reunion, or just a sunny Tuesday, this Triple Decker Key Lime Pie is sure to impress and delight everyone at the table.
How to make Triple Decker Key Lime Pie
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest
- 3 large egg yolks
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon key lime juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Additional lime zest for garnish
- Lime slices or twists for garnish
Directions:
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Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool.
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Make the First Layer Classic Key Lime: In another bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, key lime zest, and egg yolks. Pour this mixture into the cooled crust and spread it evenly. Bake for 15 minutes, then let it cool.
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Make the Second Layer Creamy Lime Cheesecake: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the granulated sugar, egg, key lime juice, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined. Spread this lovely cheesecake mixture over the cooled first layer.
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Bake the Pie: Now reduce the oven temperature to 325 degrees F (160 degrees C) and bake your lovely creation for 20 to 25 minutes, just until it’s set. Allow it to cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
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Make the Third Layer Whipped Cream Topping: When you’re ready to serve, beat together the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until you form stiff peaks. Spread this light and fluffy whipped cream over your chilled pie.
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Garnish and Serve: Finally, sprinkle some additional lime zest on top and decorate with lime slices or twists for that fancy touch. Slice and let the merriment begin!
How to serve Triple Decker Key Lime Pie
This pie is best served cold, straight from the refrigerator. It slices beautifully and pairs perfectly with a cup of hot tea or a glass of iced sweet tea. Gather your family or friends around the table, and watch their faces light up with each delightful forkful.
How to store Triple Decker Key Lime Pie
Cover any leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll keep well for about 3 to 4 days, though I bet it won’t last that long in a loving household! The flavors only deepen as the days go by, making it a perfect dessert for sharing with friends or savoring solo.
Tips to make Triple Decker Key Lime Pie
- For the best taste, use fresh key limes if you can find them; they’ll impart a wonderful zing!
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened properly to avoid any lumps in your cheesecake layer.
- Let the pie chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor and texture.
Variations
If you’re willing to experiment a little, consider adding a layer of fresh fruit or a berry compote between layers for a colorful twist. You could also switch out the key lime for lemon or orange if you fancy a change of pace!
FAQs
1. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead allows all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully in the fridge.
2. What’s the best way to zest a lime?
Using a microplane or a fine grater works wonders! Just be sure to only zest the green outer skin and avoid the bitter white pith underneath.
3. How can I tell when the pie is done baking?
The pie is ready when it’s set in the center but still has a slight jiggle. Don’t worry, it will firm up as it cools and chills.
In the end, food has this magical ability to weave love and connection, especially recipes like this Triple Decker Key Lime Pie. Each time you slice into it, you’re not just serving dessert; you’re sharing a piece of tradition, nostalgia, and a bit of sunshine — no matter the season. So gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and let those happy memories begin, one slice at a time.
Triple Decker Key Lime Pie
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well mixed.
- Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool.
- In another bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, key lime zest, and egg yolks.
- Pour this mixture into the cooled crust and spread it evenly. Bake for 15 minutes, then let it cool.
- Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the granulated sugar, egg, key lime juice, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined.
- Spread this cheesecake mixture over the cooled first layer.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 325 degrees F (160 degrees C) and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, just until it’s set.
- Allow it to cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- When you’re ready to serve, beat together the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until you form stiff peaks.
- Spread this whipped cream over your chilled pie.
- Sprinkle some additional lime zest on top and decorate with lime slices or twists.
- Slice and enjoy!