Prepare your tastebuds for a delightful experience with these mini key lime pies. This recipe is the perfect blend of tangy and sweet, with the added delight of a graham cracker crust. Whether you're a first-time baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is easy to follow and yields a delicious result that's sure to impress.
The key ingredient for this recipe is key lime juice. It may not be a common item in everyone's pantry but it's the star of the show, bringing the unique tangy flavor to these pies. So, if you don't have it at home, make sure to grab a bottle when you're at the supermarket. You can find it in the juice aisle. Also, nonfat Greek yogurt is used in this recipe, which adds an extra creaminess to the filling and helps balance the tartness of the lime.
Ingredients for Mini Key Lime Pie
Graham cracker crumbs: These add a delicious crunch to the base of the pie.
Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the tanginess of the lime.
Butter: Helps bind the graham cracker crumbs for the crust.
Egg whites: Adds structure and helps set the filling.
Sweetened condensed milk: Adds a creamy sweetness to the filling.
Lime juice: Brings the characteristic tart flavor to the pie.
Lime zest: Enhances the lime flavor in the pie.
Nonfat Greek yogurt: Adds an extra creamy texture to the pie.
One reader, Bryon Harrelson says:
This mini key lime pie recipe is a game-changer! The crust is perfectly crunchy, and the filling is so creamy and tangy. It's a delightful treat that's easy to make and always a hit with my friends and family. I love how the flavors come together in every bite!
Techniques Required for Making Mini Key Lime Pies
How to prepare graham cracker crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter, then press the mixture into the bottom of cupcake liners.
How to make key lime filling: Mix together egg whites, sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, lime zest, and Greek yogurt until well combined.
How to bake mini key lime pies: Fill the cupcake liners with the key lime filling and bake for 12-15 minutes until set.
How to garnish mini key lime pies: Top the mini key lime pies with whipped cream and lime zest for a finishing touch.
How To Make Mini Key Lime Pie
Bite-sized, portable desserts are the best, and this mini key lime pie is no exception. The sweet yet tangy filling sits atop a crisp graham cracker crust.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1½cupsgraham cracker crumbs,(about 12 squares), crushed
- 3tbspsugar
- ⅓cupbutter stick
- 3egg whites,beaten
- 28ozsweetened condensed milk,(2 cans)
- ¾cuplime juice
- 1tbsplime zest
- ⅓cupnonfat Greek yogurt
Instructions
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Crush the graham cracker squares in a food processor or place in a gallon size bag and roll with a rolling pin.
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Add sugar and butter and mix into the crushed graham cracker.
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Press 1 tablespoon graham cracker mixture into the bottom of a cupcake liner.
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In a separate bowl, mix together egg whites, condensed milk, lime juice, lime zest, and greek yogurt. Mix well.
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Fill the cupcakes about ¾ of the way full with the mixture. Bake at 350 degrees F for 12 to 15 minutes and cool.
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Top with whip cream and garnish with lime if desired. Store in the refrigerator.
Nutrition
- Calories: 315.09kcal
- Fat: 12.64g
- Saturated Fat: 7.24g
- Trans Fat: 0.28g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.36g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.27g
- Carbohydrates: 44.80g
- Fiber: 0.26g
- Sugar: 40.23g
- Protein: 7.35g
- Cholesterol: 36.46mg
- Sodium: 146.17mg
- Calcium: 209.50mg
- Potassium: 295.51mg
- Iron: 0.42mg
- Vitamin A: 92.48µg
- Vitamin C: 6.90mg
Technique Tip for Perfecting Mini Key Lime Pies
When preparing the graham cracker crust, ensure that the crumbs are finely crushed to achieve a smooth and even base for your mini key lime pies. Larger chunks may result in an uneven crust that doesn't hold together well. Additionally, when pressing the mixture into the cupcake liners, apply firm and even pressure to create a solid crust that will hold up to the filling. If the crust is too loose, it may crumble when you remove the pies from the liners.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare the graham cracker crust and filling the day before. This will save time on the day you plan to serve the mini key lime pies.
Use pre-made crust: If you're short on time, consider using pre-made graham cracker crusts instead of making your own from scratch.
Chill the filling: After mixing the filling, chill it in the refrigerator for a few hours to speed up the setting process.
Bake in batches: If you have multiple muffin trays, bake the mini key lime pies in batches to save time.
Freeze for quick setting: Pop the assembled mini key lime pies in the freezer for a quicker setting time if you're short on time.
Organize ingredients: Before you start, gather and organize all the ingredients and utensils you'll need to streamline the cooking process.
Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly crush the graham crackers for the crust.
Pre-portion ingredients: Pre-portion the graham cracker crust and filling ingredients to expedite the assembly process.
Delegate tasks: Enlist the help of family or friends to assist with tasks like crushing graham crackers or filling the cupcake liners.
Substitute Ingredients For Mini Key Lime Pie Recipe
graham cracker crumbs - Substitute with digestive biscuit crumbs: Digestive biscuits have a similar texture and flavor to graham crackers, making them a suitable substitute for the crust.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add sweetness and moisture to the crust while also providing a distinct flavor.
butter stick - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative and adds a subtle coconut flavor to the crust.
egg whites - Substitute with aquafaba: Aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas, can be whipped into a foam and used as a vegan egg white substitute.
sweetened condensed milk - Substitute with coconut condensed milk: Coconut condensed milk can provide a similar creamy sweetness with a hint of coconut flavor.
lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice can be used as a substitute for lime juice, providing a similar tartness and citrus flavor.
lime zest - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest can be used in place of lime zest to add a citrusy aroma and flavor to the pie filling.
nonfat greek yogurt - Substitute with coconut yogurt: Coconut yogurt can provide a creamy and tangy element to the filling while also offering a dairy-free alternative.
Best Way to Present Mini Key Lime Pies
Elevate the crust: Create a delicate and precise graham cracker crust using a ring mold to ensure a perfect, uniform base for the mini key lime pies.
Artful dollop of whipped cream: Use a piping bag to create a beautiful, airy dollop of whipped cream on top of each mini pie, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Garnish with lime zest: Sprinkle a fine dusting of freshly grated lime zest on top of the whipped cream to add a pop of color and a burst of citrus aroma.
Arrange in a symmetrical pattern: Place the mini key lime pies on the plate in a visually appealing and symmetrical arrangement, ensuring each pie is presented with precision and care.
Use fine dining plating techniques: Employ techniques such as micro-herbs or edible flowers to add a touch of finesse and elevate the overall presentation of the mini key lime pies.
Incorporate a decorative sauce: Drizzle a vibrant raspberry or mango coulis around the plate to add a contrasting color and a burst of flavor, enhancing the visual appeal of the dish.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Present the mini key lime pies on a sleek, modern plate or a decorative platter to enhance the overall visual impact and elevate the dining experience.
Essential Tools for Making Mini Key Lime Pies
Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients and mixing batters or doughs.
Whisk: Used for blending, whipping, and incorporating air into mixtures.
Food processor: Ideal for crushing graham crackers and other ingredients for the crust.
Cupcake pan: To bake the mini key lime pies.
Cupcake liners: To line the cupcake pan and prevent sticking.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurement of ingredients.
Zester: To extract the flavorful zest from the lime.
Citrus juicer: For extracting fresh lime juice.
Muffin scoop or spoon: For portioning the graham cracker crust and lime filling into the cupcake liners.
Oven: For baking the mini key lime pies.
Cooling rack: To cool the mini key lime pies after baking.
Refrigerator: For storing the mini key lime pies.
How To Store and Freeze Mini Key Lime Pies
Once the mini key lime pies have cooled to room temperature, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
If you want to freeze the pies, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, ensuring there are no air pockets. Then, place the wrapped pies in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container or bag with the date and store in the freezer for up to 1-2 months.
To thaw frozen mini key lime pies, transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator and let them defrost overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature, as this can cause condensation and make the crust soggy.
For best results, garnish the pies with whipped cream and lime zest just before serving. If the pies have been frozen and thawed, you may want to refresh the garnishes to ensure an attractive presentation.
If you have any leftover key lime filling, you can store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Use it as a delicious spread on graham crackers or as a dip for fresh fruit.
Random Fact About Mini Key Lime Pies
The mini key lime pie recipe is a delightful dessert option for any occasion. The combination of graham cracker crumbs, sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, and Greek yogurt creates a tangy and creamy filling that perfectly complements the crunchy crust. These individual-sized pies are easy to make and can be topped with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, these mini key lime pies are sure to be a hit! Enjoy creating these mini key lime pies for your next dessert spread.
Is Making Mini Key Lime Pies Economical for Home Cooking?
The cost-effectiveness of this mini key lime pie recipe largely depends on the availability and prices of ingredients. While sweetened condensed milk and limes can be affordable, other items like greek yogurt and butter may increase the overall cost. Considering the yield and portion size, this recipe could be moderately cost-effective for a household. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-20. Overall Verdict: 8.
Is This Dessert Healthy or Unhealthy?
The mini key lime pie recipe, while delicious, has some aspects that could be considered unhealthy:
- The graham cracker crust is high in sugar and butter, which are sources of added sugars and saturated fats
- Sweetened condensed milk is also high in sugar and calories
- The recipe lacks fiber and nutrients from whole foods like fruits or vegetables
However, there are some positive aspects:
- Using greek yogurt instead of cream or more condensed milk reduces the fat and calorie content while adding protein
- Lime juice and zest provide some vitamin C and natural flavor
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace some of the graham cracker crumbs with ground nuts like almonds or walnuts for added fiber, protein, and healthy fats
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the crust and filling, or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup in smaller amounts
- Incorporate more lime zest for flavor without added sugar or calories
- Top the pies with fresh fruit like berries or sliced kiwi for added nutrients and fiber
- Use a smaller amount of filling in each pie to reduce the overall calorie and sugar content per serving
- Experiment with a nut-based or oat-based crust for a gluten-free and more nutrient-dense option
By making these adjustments, you can create a mini key lime pie that still satisfies your sweet tooth while providing some nutritional benefits. Moderation is key, as this dessert should still be enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than an everyday indulgence.
Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Dessert
This mini key lime pie recipe is a delightful twist on the classic dessert. The combination of tangy lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and creamy Greek yogurt creates a luscious filling that perfectly complements the buttery graham cracker crust. The addition of a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lime zest adds a refreshing finish to this delightful treat. The individual portions make it perfect for entertaining or enjoying a sweet indulgence. Overall, this recipe is a delightful and refreshing take on a beloved dessert classic.
Enhance Your Mini Key Lime Pie Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Appetizer and Main Course Pairings for Mini Key Lime Pies
Why trust this Mini Key Lime Pie Recipe:
This delightful mini key lime pie recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, creating a delectable treat for any occasion. With a harmonious blend of graham cracker crumbs, lime juice, and sweetened condensed milk, this recipe promises an authentic taste of the tropics. The addition of nonfat greek yogurt not only enhances the creaminess but also provides a healthier twist. The meticulous instructions ensure a foolproof baking experience, resulting in adorable, individual-sized pies that are bound to impress. Trust in the simplicity and deliciousness of this recipe for a delightful dessert experience.
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