Claudia PassarellSep 26, 2025 3 min read

How to Make the Perfect Key Lime Pie for National Key Lime Pie Day

Celebrate September 26 with Florida’s official state dessert, the tangy and creamy Key lime pie. Photo credit: Adobe Stock.

Every September 26, food lovers celebrate National Key Lime Pie Day, honoring one of Florida’s most iconic desserts.

A Slice of History

The origins are a bit murky. Legend credits “Aunt Sally,” the cook for wealthy Key West resident William Curry, with whipping up the first pie in the late 1800s. Yet food historians point out that similar “magic lemon cream” recipes, published by Borden in the 1930s, likely paved the way for today’s Key lime version.

What’s not debated? Florida embraced it. By 2006, Key lime pie was officially crowned the state pie of Florida.

And while grocery-store shelves often display green-tinted pies, purists will tell you the real deal is a sunny yellow, thanks to egg yolks and the naturally golden hue of ripe Key limes.

The Classic Key Lime Pie Recipe

The traditional recipe blends graham cracker crust, creamy lime filling, and a fluffy topping. Photo credit: Adobe Stock.

If you want to start with tradition, here is the tried-and-true recipe most people know and love.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

  • ⅓ cup sugar

  • 6 tbsp melted butter

  • 3 large egg yolks

  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

  • ½ cup fresh Key lime juice (about 12 Key limes)

  • Whipped cream or meringue for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

  2. Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch pie pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool slightly.

  3. In a bowl, whisk egg yolks. Add condensed milk and whisk until smooth. Stir in lime juice.

  4. Pour filling into crust and bake for 12–15 minutes, just until set.

  5. Cool at room temperature, then chill at least 3 hours before serving.

  6. Top with whipped cream or meringue. Garnish with lime zest curls.

Easy Variations for Every Taste

From no-bake pies to bite-sized bars, Key lime pie has endless ways to enjoy its tangy flavor. Photo credit: Adobe Stock.

No-Bake Key Lime Pie

Combine condensed milk, lime juice, and whipped topping. Chill until firm for a lighter, faster version.

Whipped Cream or Meringue

Whipped cream is silky and classic. Meringue adds a dramatic, toasted finish.

Creative Crust Ideas

Swap graham crackers for gingersnaps or vanilla wafers to add a spicy or sweet twist.

Dairy-Free and Vegan Options

Replace condensed milk with coconut cream or cashew cream blended with sweetener. Agar-agar helps the filling set.

Bite-Sized and Party Friendly

Bake the filling in mini tart shells or cut bars from a sheet pan for easy sharing.

Tips and Hacks for Perfect Key Lime Pie

Fresh juice, proper chilling, and creative crusts make all the difference in your Key lime pie. Photo credit: Adobe Stock.

  • Always use fresh Key lime juice when possible. Bottled juice lacks brightness.

  • Chill overnight for the firmest, cleanest slices.

  • Garnish with lime zest curls to boost flavor and presentation.

  • Mix half graham crackers and half gingersnaps for a crust with extra depth.

A Slice Worth Celebrating

Tomorrow, treat yourself to a piece of sweet Florida sunshine. Whether you follow the classic recipe or put your own spin on it, National Key Lime Pie Day is the perfect excuse to enjoy a slice.

Did you find this guide helpful? Save it for later and share it with friends so everyone can celebrate with a slice.

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