Are you craving a refreshing and tangy dessert that won't derail your healthy eating goals? Then look no further! This Key Lime Pie recipe is a delicious and guilt-free indulgence, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without sacrificing your Weight Watchers points. This easy recipe is a quick dinner idea for those busy weeknights and is a perfect addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. Get ready to experience the zesty burst of flavor that will make this your new favorite dessert! This is among the best recipes for a light yet satisfying sweet treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full graham crackers)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk (reduced-fat version recommended)
- ½ cup key lime juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- Whipped cream or fresh berries, for topping (optional)
Instructions:
Making the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
- Pour in the melted butter and mix until evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Let it cool completely.
Making the Filling:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, eggs, and lime zest until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the filling into the cooled crust.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is just set around the edges. The center might still be slightly jiggly – that's okay!
- Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set properly.
Serving Your Key Lime Pie:
- Once chilled, garnish with whipped cream and fresh berries, if desired.
- Slice and serve this delightful dessert and enjoy the refreshing taste of homemade Key Lime Pie.
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Pie:
- Fresh is Best: Using freshly squeezed key lime juice makes a world of difference in the flavor of your pie. The vibrant acidity is key to the authentic taste.
- Don't Overbake: Overbaking can lead to a dry or cracked pie. It's better to slightly underbake and let the filling set in the refrigerator.
- Chill Thoroughly: Allowing the pie to chill completely ensures a firm and smooth filling. Patience is key here!
- Blind Baking: For a crispier crust, you can pre-bake the crust (blind bake) before adding the filling. This involves lining the crust with parchment paper and baking weights before baking to prevent bubbling.
Variations:
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the condensed milk with a dairy-free alternative and use a vegan butter for the crust.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or a gluten-free crust.
- Add a Twist: Incorporate a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Around 250-300 (depending on ingredients used)
- Fat: Around 15-20g
- Protein: Around 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: Around 25-30g
This delicious Key Lime Pie is a perfect example of healthy meals you can enjoy without compromise. It’s a satisfying dessert that fits perfectly into your healthy eating plan. Enjoy every bite!