1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Make the Graham Cracker Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar.
- Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
3. Make the Key Lime Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Gradually whisk in the key lime juice until well combined.
- Pour the filling into the pre-baked graham cracker crust.
4. Bake the Pie:
- Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set and just barely jiggles in the center when gently shaken.
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature on a wire rack. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until thoroughly chilled.
5. Make the Whipped Cream Topping:
- In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form.
- Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie.
6. Serve:
- Garnish the pie with lime zest, if desired.
- Slice and serve the Key Lime Pie chilled.
- Enjoy!
This Key Lime Pie is a refreshing and delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion!