Name: Mini Key Lime Pies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 1/3 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups sweetened condensed milk; 1/2 cup key lime juice; 3 egg yolks; Whipped cream for topping; Lime slices for garnish

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Mini key lime pies with a graham cracker crust and lime garnish

If you’re looking for a sweet and tangy treat that packs a punch in every delightful bite, Mini Key Lime Pies are the way to go!

These bite-sized desserts combine a crunchy graham cracker crust with a smooth and zesty filling, making them the perfect ending to any meal or a fun addition to gatherings.

Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, requiring just a handful of ingredients you likely already have at home.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, these mini pies will impress everyone at the table and leave them craving more.

A small key lime pie topped with whipped cream and garnished with fresh lime slices.

A small key lime pie featuring whipped cream and decorative lime slices on top.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 12 mini pies
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 180
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 14g
Sodium: 150mg

Why I Love This Mini Key Lime Pies

Oh, where do I begin? Mini Key Lime Pies hold a special place in my heart! They’re not just adorable but bursting with that classic zesty flavor that transports you straight to a sunny beach.

I love how simple the recipe is; even the kids can help! It’s a fantastic way to bring everyone together in the kitchen.

Plus, who can resist that refreshing combination of tart lime and sweet whipped cream? Perfect for summer barbecues or just a cozy night in, these pies are a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.

Ingredients

1 cup graham cracker crumbs,
1/3 cup sugar,
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted,
2 cups sweetened condensed milk,
1/2 cup key lime juice,
3 egg yolks,
Whipped cream for topping, Lime slices for garnish

How to Make Mini Key Lime Pies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until everything is nicely mixed and resembles wet sand.

Step 3: Form the Mini Crusts

Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of a muffin tin to create mini crusts. Make sure they’re packed tightly for a sturdy base.

Step 4: Bake the Crusts

Bake the crusts in your preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden brown. Let them cool completely.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

In another bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and egg yolks until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Pour the Filling

Carefully pour the lime filling into the cooled crusts, filling each one nearly to the top.

Step 7: Bake the Pies

Return the muffin tin to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes. The filling should be just set but still a bit jiggly.

Step 8: Cool Down

Once done, let the mini pies cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for a few hours until fully chilled.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your delicious Mini Key Lime Pies topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a lime slice for an extra touch!

A hand using a whisk to mix batter in a bowl, with a focus on the motion and texture of the mixture.

A close-up of a hand whisking batter in a bowl, showcasing the blending process and creamy consistency of the mixture.

A muffin pan with a spoon resting in the center, ready for baking or mixing ingredients.

A muffin pan featuring a spoon placed in the middle, indicating preparation for baking.

Tips & Variations

Serving Suggestion: Serve your Mini Key Lime Pies chilled for the best flavor experience. They’re perfect for summertime parties or a refreshing dessert after dinner.
Garnishes: Feel free to mix it up by adding zest from the lime for an extra zing or some crushed graham crackers on top for a cute presentation.
Dietary Adjustments: Use gluten-free graham crackers to make the recipe suitable for gluten-free diets. You can also substitute the sweetened condensed milk with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Flavor Boost: If you adore tropical flavors, add a splash of coconut milk to the filling for a unique twist.

Delicious Variations

Mini Cheesecakes: Transform your dessert game with bite-sized cheesecakes. They’re creamy, delicious, and similarly fun to make!
Chocolate Pot de Crème: For chocolate lovers, this rich, decadent dessert is an indulgent treat that rivals any pie.
Limoncello Tart: Capture the zest of lemon in a similarly made tart but with a sweet limoncello twist.
Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes: A fruity twist on a classic dessert, these cupcakes are sure to bring sunshine to your day!

Serving Suggestions for Mini Key Lime Pies

The best way to serve Mini Key Lime Pies is straight from the fridge, allowing the filling to be nice and firm.

Garnish each serving with a swirl of whipped cream and a delightful lime slice on top.

These are perfect as a sweet finish after a spicy meal. Pair them with a refreshing glass of iced tea or a crisp white wine to enhance the flavors.

Storage and Leftovers

Store your Mini Key Lime Pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

You can freeze the unbaked crusts and the filling separately for up to 3 months if you want to make them ahead of time. Just be sure to thaw everything completely before baking them up!

Helpful Questions

Can I use regular lime juice instead of key lime juice?
Yes, but keep in mind that key lime juice has a more distinct flavor. Regular lime juice will work in a pinch!
Why is my filling runny?
Ensure you’ve added the right number of egg yolks, as they help set your filling. Also, make sure to bake them until just set.
Can I make the crust ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crust and store it in the fridge for a day before adding the filling.
How do I know when the pies are done?
The pies should be set but still slightly jiggly when you gently shake the muffin tin. They will firm up as they cool!
What’s the best way to enjoy leftovers?
They are delicious cold, but if you’re feeling fancy, try them warmed slightly in the microwave for about 10 seconds. Enjoy!