Simple Key Lime Pie with Sweetened Condensed Milk

Name: Simple Key Lime Pie with Sweetened Condensed Milk
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups sweetened condensed milk; 3/4 cup key lime juice; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 tbsp grated lime zest; 1 (9-inch) prepared graham cracker crust; Lime slices for garnish (optional); Whipped cream for garnish (optional)

By Jason GriffithPublished March 9, 2026Updated May 24, 2026dessert

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A creamy and tangy key lime pie made with sweetened condensed milk and baked in a graham cracker crust.

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Prep10 minutes

Cook8 minutes

Total18 minutes

Serves8 servings

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Simple Key Lime Pie with Sweetened Condensed Milk

A creamy and tangy key lime pie made with sweetened condensed milk and baked in a graham cracker crust.

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Prep Time
10 minutes

Cook Time
8 minutes

Total Time
18 minutes

Yield
8 servings

Course
dessert

Cuisine
Not listed

Servings
8 servings

Calories
460 calories

Ingredients

3 cups sweetened condensed milk
3/4 cup key lime juice
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tbsp grated lime zest
1 (9-inch) prepared graham cracker crust
Lime slices for garnish (optional)
Whipped cream for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, sour cream, and grated lime zest until smooth.
Pour the mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust and place the pie on a baking sheet.
Bake for 5-8 minutes until tiny pinhole bubbles appear on the surface. The filling should be set but still slightly wobbly.
Remove from the oven and let the pie cool on a wire rack.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until fully chilled before serving.
Garnish with lime slices and whipped cream if desired before serving.

Nutrition

Calories460 calories

Protein9 g

Carbohydrates63 g

Fat19 g

SodiumNot listed

SugarNot listed

FiberNot listed

Key Lime Pie

Few desserts are as refreshing and satisfying as a classic Key Lime Pie. With its creamy filling, bright citrus flavor, and buttery graham cracker crust, this iconic dessert is beloved for its perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.

This homemade version keeps things wonderfully simple. The filling comes together with just a handful of ingredients—sweetened condensed milk, fresh key lime juice, sour cream, and lime zest. After a short bake and a quick chill in the refrigerator, you’ll have a silky, smooth pie that tastes like sunshine in every bite.

Whether you're making it for a summer gathering, holiday dessert table, or just because you're craving something citrusy and sweet, this easy Key Lime Pie recipe delivers bakery-quality results with minimal effort.

Why I Love This Recipe

This pie is one of those timeless desserts that never goes out of style.

Here’s why it’s always a favorite:

Only a few ingredients required
Quick preparation – ready for the oven in minutes
Perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and tart
A refreshing dessert that’s great for warm weather
Looks beautiful with simple whipped cream and lime garnish

It’s also a great dessert to serve after hearty meals like Fettuccine Alfredo – The Creamy Pasta That Became a Comfort Food Favorite, where a bright citrus finish helps balance the richness.

Tips for the Best Key Lime Pie

A few simple tips will ensure your pie turns out perfectly every time.

Use fresh lime zest

This adds extra citrus aroma and flavor.

Don’t overbake

The pie only needs a short bake to set the filling.

Chill thoroughly

Chilling helps the pie develop its signature creamy texture.

Slice with a warm knife

Run your knife under hot water and wipe it dry before slicing for clean cuts.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Key Lime Pie is wonderfully refreshing and pairs nicely with both breakfast treats and hearty meals.

Try serving it alongside:

For a balanced day of meals, start with something lighter like The Ultimate Overnight Oats Guide – 1 Base Recipe, 6 Easy Flavors and finish with a slice of this refreshing pie.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Approximate values:

Calories: 460
Fat: 19 g
Carbohydrates: 63 g
Protein: 9 g

These values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Storage Tips

Key Lime Pie stores well, making it great for make-ahead desserts.

Refrigerator

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezer

You can freeze the pie for up to 2 months.
Wrap tightly and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Serving tip

For the best flavor and texture, allow the pie to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before slicing.

More Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoy simple homemade desserts and comforting classics, try these recipes next:

Final Thoughts

This Key Lime Pie is proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most memorable. With its creamy filling, bright citrus flavor, and buttery graham cracker crust, it’s a dessert that feels both classic and refreshing.

It’s perfect for summer gatherings, holiday tables, or anytime you’re craving something sweet with a tangy twist.

If you try this recipe, feel free to share your results and favorite variations. And be sure to follow along for more easy homemade recipes that bring classic flavors to your kitchen. 🍋🥧

Why You?ll Love This Recipe

This Simple Key Lime Pie with Sweetened Condensed Milk is built for home cooks who want a reliable dessert without turning dinner or dessert into a project. The ingredient list stays approachable, the method is clear, and the finished dish gives you the kind of comfort-food payoff that makes a recipe worth saving.

Because the recipe card below keeps the exact measurements and steps organized, this article focuses on the practical details that help the recipe come out better: timing, texture, ingredient choices, storage, serving ideas, and simple ways to adjust the flavor for your table.

Tips for the Best Results

Use the listed times as a guide, but remember that cookware, appliance strength, ingredient size, and starting temperature can all affect the final result. This recipe lists 10 minutes of prep time, 8 minutes of cook time, and about 18 minutes total time, which makes it easier to plan around dinner, parties, or weekend cooking.

Season thoughtfully. Many comfort-food recipes use flavorful packaged ingredients, cheese, sauces, or seasoning blends, and those can vary in salt level. Taste when it is safe to do so, then adjust at the end. A small amount of acid, fresh herbs, black pepper, or a creamy topping can make the finished dish feel more balanced.

Easy Variations

You can adapt this recipe based on what your family likes. Keep the main method the same, then change the seasoning, topping, vegetable, or serving style. If you want more heat, add a spicy element. If you want something milder, reduce strong seasonings and finish with a creamy or fresh topping.

For a heartier version, serve it with a simple side such as rice, potatoes, salad, bread, or roasted vegetables. For a lighter version, pair it with crisp greens or fresh fruit, depending on whether the recipe is savory or sweet.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator once the food has cooled. Most cooked dishes keep well for three to four days, while many desserts keep best when covered tightly so they do not dry out.

Reheat gently when possible. A microwave is convenient for individual portions, but an oven, skillet, or air fryer can help bring back texture when the recipe has a crisp, baked, or toasted element.

What to Serve With It

This recipe makes 8 servings, so it can work as a main dish, side, dessert, or shareable recipe depending on the category. For savory recipes, pair it with something fresh or simple so the meal does not feel too heavy. A salad, roasted vegetable, bread, rice, or potatoes can round out the plate.

For sweeter recipes, serve smaller portions with coffee, milk, whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream. The goal is to support the main flavor rather than cover it up.

Food Safety and Doneness

Use visual cues and safe cooking temperatures when judging doneness. For meat, poultry, seafood, and egg-based recipes, an instant-read thermometer is the most reliable tool. You can review official guidance on the USDA safe minimum internal temperature chart.

For baked goods and desserts, look for the texture cues in the recipe card: set centers, golden edges, clean tester marks, or proper chilling time. Letting a recipe rest before serving often improves texture and makes slicing or plating easier.

Food Safety Source

For safe cooking temperatures and food handling basics, see the USDA safe minimum internal temperature chart.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Simple Key Lime Pie with Sweetened Condensed Milk ahead of time?

You can usually prepare some parts ahead of time, but follow the storage and reheating notes in the recipe for the best texture and food safety.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Use the storage instructions on this page when available, and reheat gently until hot.

Can I change the ingredients?

Yes. Most home-style recipes can be adjusted for taste, but keep the core cooking method and safe internal temperatures in mind when changing proteins or cook times.