Mini Key Pies
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Delight in these charming Mini Key Pies that capture the essence of classic key lime pie in perfectly portioned bites. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a creamy, zesty lime filling, these little treats are a refreshing dessert that will impress at any gathering. Perfect for spring and summer celebrations or anytime you crave a sweet, tangy snack!
Mini Key Pies are a delightful twist on the traditional key lime pie, offering a burst of flavor in each bite. These mini treats are perfect for summer gatherings and celebrations, as they're easy to make and even easier to enjoy!
The Perfect Spring and Summer Treat
Mini Key Pies are the quintessential dessert to celebrate the warmer months. Their refreshing lime flavor not only excites the taste buds but also brings a touch of tropical sunshine to any occasion. With a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness, these pies are perfect for picnics, barbecues, or poolside gatherings. The individual servings make them easy to share, allowing guests to enjoy a sweet treat without the need for slicing and serving a larger pie.
These charming desserts are not just visually appealing; they're also a feast for the senses. The golden graham cracker crust provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy filling, while the zesty lime offers a vibrant kick. The added whipped cream and lime garnishes elevate their presentation, making them an impressive addition to any dessert table. Whether you're hosting a backyard party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, Mini Key Pies are sure to enhance your dining experience.
A Breeze to Make
One of the best aspects of Mini Key Pies is how simple they are to prepare. With just a few common ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up these delightful desserts in no time. The graham cracker crust comes together easily, and the filling requires just a brief mix, making this recipe suitable for bakers of all skill levels. Even those who don’t consider themselves kitchen whizzes can impress their friends and family with these charming sweets.
Once you master this recipe, feel free to experiment with different flavors! Replace key lime juice with lemon or even orange juice for a citrus twist. You can also infuse the filling with unique flavors like coconut or mint. The possibilities are endless, ensuring that your Mini Key Pies can be customized to suit your personal preferences or seasonal ingredients.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your Mini Key Pies.
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice
- Zest of 1 lime
For Topping
- Whipped cream
- Lime slices for garnish
Ensure all ingredients are prepared before starting.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Mini Key Pies.
Make the Crust
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well mixed. Press the mixture into the bottoms of a mini muffin tin, creating small cups.
Prepare the Filling
In another bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest until smooth. Spoon the mixture into the prepared crusts in the muffin tin.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and cool completely.
Serve
Once cooled, remove the pies from the muffin tin and top with whipped cream and lime slices for garnish. Enjoy your Mini Key Pies!
Let your pies chill in the fridge for a few hours for best results.
Tips for Perfect Mini Key Pies
To ensure your Mini Key Pies come out perfectly every time, consider the temperature of your ingredients. Using room-temperature egg yolks will create a smoother filling, reducing the risk of lumps. Additionally, don’t overmix the filling; whisking just until combined will help maintain its light texture, ensuring it rises beautifully during baking.
If you find that your pies puff up during baking, this is perfectly normal. As they cool, they will settle back down, giving you that quintessential mini pie look. However, you want to let them cool completely before removing them from the muffin tin to prevent any cracking or breaking.
Serving Suggestions
For an added touch of elegance, consider serving your Mini Key Pies on a platter garnished with fresh mint leaves and lime wedges. This not only enhances the visual aesthetic but also allows your guests to enjoy an extra burst of freshness in every bite. Pairing them with a scoop of coconut sorbet or vanilla ice cream is another delightful options, creating a contrast of temperatures and flavors.
Mini Key Pies also make excellent party favors. Place a few in decorative boxes or clear containers tied with a ribbon for a charming, homemade gift guests can take home. This personal touch will surely be appreciated and remembered long after the event.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use bottled lime juice?
Yes, bottled lime juice can be used, but fresh lime juice will provide a better flavor.
→ How do I store the Mini Key Pies?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Mini Key Pies
Delight in these charming Mini Key Pies that capture the essence of classic key lime pie in perfectly portioned bites. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a creamy, zesty lime filling, these little treats are a refreshing dessert that will impress at any gathering. Perfect for spring and summer celebrations or anytime you crave a sweet, tangy snack!
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 12 mini pies
What You'll Need
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice
- Zest of 1 lime
For Topping
- Whipped cream
- Lime slices for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well mixed. Press the mixture into the bottoms of a mini muffin tin, creating small cups.
In another bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest until smooth. Spoon the mixture into the prepared crusts in the muffin tin.
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and cool completely.
Once cooled, remove the pies from the muffin tin and top with whipped cream and lime slices for garnish. Enjoy your Mini Key Pies!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1 pie
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 8g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Sugars: 12g