Key Lime Crust Crunch
The History of Key Lime Pie
Key Lime Pie is a classic American dessert with roots in the historic Florida Keys. This delicious pie is known for its tart flavor, creamy texture, and crumbly crust. The origins are somewhat mysterious, but many believe it originated in the late 1800s, where the key lime was grown in abundance. The unique key lime flavor, combined with the ease of the recipe, quickly made it a beloved dessert across the United States.
The traditional pie consists of three parts: the graham cracker crust, the key lime custard filling, and a topping of whipped cream. The popularity of the pie brought about variations, such as the Key Lime Crust Crunch, which apart from offering the classic taste also provides a delightful texture.
Ingredients
- Graham crackers - 1 1/2 cups, crushed
- Butter - 1/2 cup, melted
- Granulated sugar - 1/2 cup
- Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
- Key lime juice - 3/4 cup, freshly squeezed
- Sweetened condensed milk - 2 cans (14 ounces each)
- Egg yolks - 4 large
- Salt - a pinch
- Heavy whipping cream - 1 cup for topping
- Powdered sugar - 2 tablespoons, for topping
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Crust
To begin, preheat your oven to 350°F. In a medium bowl, combine graham crackers, butter, and sugar. Stir until the mixture is well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan.
Bake the crust for 8 minutes and then remove it from the oven, letting it cool on a wire rack.
Step 2: Making the Key Lime Filling
In a large bowl, whisk sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and egg yolks. Beat slowly until the mixture thickens and is smooth.
Pour the filling into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly. Return the pie to the oven and bake for 15 minutes. After baking, allow it to cool to room temperature on a wire rack.
Step 3: Creating the Crunch Layer
For the crunchy layer, chop and toast some additional graham crackers in the oven. Mix them with a sprinkle of sugar and melted butter, spreading this mixture over the cooled pie. Chill the entire pie in the refrigerator for a minimum of 3 hours, or until firm.
Step 4: Topping with Whipped Cream
With an electric mixer, whip heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar together until soft peaks form. Spread this whipped cream over the top of the chilled pie.
Cooking Time
The overall preparation and cooking of the Key Lime Crust Crunch will take approximately 45 minutes of active work, with an additional 3 hours of chilling time.
Serving and Enjoying Key Lime Crust Crunch
Once the pie is chilled and the whipped cream topping is added, slice the pie into wedges using a sharp knife. For an enhanced presentation, garnish with thin slices of fresh key lime or a sprinkle of sugar. Serve each slice elegantly on dessert plates.
This dessert pairs well with a cup of coffee or a glass of sweet dessert wine. It's the ideal sweet finish for a summer meal or as a delightful treat any time of year.
The Key Lime Crust Crunch promises a medley of flavors and textures—its tart, sweet, creamy, and crunchy elements creating a balanced dessert that will impress family and friends alike.