Simple Key Lime Pie with Sweetened Condensed Milk

By Jason Griffith · March 9, 2026

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.

Key Lime Pie

Key Lime Pie

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

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 8 min | Total: min

Servings: 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)

Instructions

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

Nutrition

  • Calories: 460 calories
  • Fat: 19 g
  • Carbs: 63 g
  • Protein: 9 g

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Ingredients

To make one 9-inch pie (about 8 servings), you’ll need:

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

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

This recipe is simple but a few small choices can enhance the flavor.

Key Lime Juice

  • Fresh key lime juice is traditional
  • Regular lime juice works if key limes aren’t available

Sour Cream

  • Adds extra creaminess and a subtle tang
  • Greek yogurt can be substituted if needed

Graham Cracker Crust

  • Store-bought crust keeps the recipe quick
  • Homemade graham crust adds extra flavor and texture

How to Make Key Lime Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:

  • Sweetened condensed milk
  • Key lime juice
  • Sour cream
  • Lime zest

Whisk until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.

Step 3: Fill the Pie Crust

Pour the filling into the prepared graham cracker crust.

Place the pie on a baking sheet to make it easier to transfer to the oven.

Step 4: Bake

Bake the pie for 5–8 minutes.

You’ll know it’s ready when:

  • Tiny pinhole bubbles appear on the surface
  • The center is set but still slightly wobbly

Step 5: Cool

Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.

Step 6: Chill

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until fully chilled and set.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, garnish with:

  • Whipped cream
  • Lime slices

Slice and enjoy!

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. 🍋🥧

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