Are you craving a refreshing and tangy dessert that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Key Lime Pie recipe, with a creamy Greek yogurt twist, is the perfect solution for a delicious and healthy treat. Forget the heavy, overly sweet versions of the past; this recipe delivers all the zesty lime flavor you love, with a lighter, healthier, and surprisingly easy-to-make pie filling. It's the perfect homemade dessert for any occasion, impressing your guests with minimal effort. Let's get started on this quick dinner alternative that is surprisingly delicious!
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 ½ cups plain Greek yogurt (full-fat recommended)
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup Key lime juice (about 4-6 limes)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
Instructions:
Make the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even layer.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool completely before adding the filling.
Make the Filling:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Add the Key lime juice, eggs, and lime zest. Whisk until well combined. Be sure to remove any seeds from the lime juice for a smoother texture.
- Pour the filling into the cooled crust.
- Place the pie in a larger baking pan. Pour enough hot water into the larger pan to come halfway up the sides of the pie plate (this creates a water bath, preventing cracking).
- Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is just set around the edges. The center may still jiggle slightly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack. This is crucial for a creamy texture. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the pie to fully set.
Tips for the Best Key Lime Pie:
- Use fresh Key limes: The intense flavor of fresh Key limes is essential for this recipe. If you can't find them, you can substitute regular limes, but the flavor will be slightly less pronounced.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking will result in a dry, cracked pie. The filling should be set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Patience is key: Allow the pie to cool and chill completely before serving to achieve the optimal creamy texture.
Variations:
- Add a topping: A dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted coconut adds a beautiful touch and extra flavor.
- Use different crust: Experiment with a shortbread crust or even a gluten-free crust for a variation on this delicious pie.
- Make it vegan: Substitute the Greek yogurt with a thick vegan yogurt alternative and the eggs with flax eggs.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Sugar: 20-25g
This easy Key Lime Pie recipe with Greek Yogurt is a delightful and healthy dessert option. The zesty lime flavor and creamy texture will make it a favorite among your family and friends. Enjoy!