How to Make Key Lime Pie

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the crust: In a bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch (23 cm) pie dish, forming an even crust. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to press the mixture firmly.

Bake the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes or until it's lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack while you prepare the filling.

Make the filling: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they are slightly thickened. Gradually add in the sweetened condensed milk while continuing to whisk. Stir in the key lime juice and key lime zest until well combined.

Fill the crust: Pour the filling mixture into the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.

Bake the pie: Return the pie to the oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Be careful not to overbake.

Chill the pie: Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then, place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2-3 hours or until it's fully chilled and set.

Prepare the whipped cream topping: In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.

Serve: Just before serving, spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie. Garnish with additional key lime zest and slices of key lime for a decorative touch.

Enjoy: Slice and serve the delicious homemade Key Lime Pie to your delighted guests!