Key Lime Coconut Pie

🕒 Prep: 20 min
🔥 Cook: 15 min
🍽 Serves: 8
Be the First to Review!

Key Lime Coconut Pie is a delightful twist on the classic key lime pie, combining the tangy, refreshing flavor of key limes with the sweet, tropical notes of coconut. Perfect for summer gatherings or when you want a taste of sunshine, this pie is both simple and standout.

Ingredients for Key Lime Coconut Pie

Graham cracker crumbs form the base of our crust, providing a slightly sweet and crisp foundation. Shredded coconut adds texture and a hint of tropical flavor. Mixing in white sugar enhances sweetness and helps bind the crust. Unsalted butter is used to bring everything together, ensuring our crust is rich and flavorful.

For the filling, sweetened condensed milk gives a creamy, luscious texture and sweetness that complements the tart key lime juice. A touch of key lime zest intensifies the lime flavor, while egg yolks add richness and help the filling set. Heavy cream, when whipped with powdered sugar and a hint of vanilla extract, creates a light, fluffy topping. Finally, toasted coconut flakes make for a delicious and eye-catching garnish.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use fresh key lime juice for authentic flavor — bottled just doesn't compare.
  • To prevent the crust from sticking, lightly grease the pie pan before pressing in the crust mixture.
  • Chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream for best results.

Serving Suggestions

This pie is best served chilled, making it a perfect ending to a barbecue or a light summer meal. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence or enjoy it with a refreshing iced tea or a citrusy cocktail to complement the lime flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
Yes, you can use regular limes if key limes are unavailable, but the flavor will be less intense.
How long does the pie keep?
Stored properly in the refrigerator, the pie can last up to 3 days.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! Make the pie a day ahead and add the whipped cream topping just before serving.

Key Lime Coconut Pie Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and white sugar. Stir these dry ingredients together to ensure an even mix. Next, pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture looks like wet sand — this is your crust.

Press this crust mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie pan, making sure it's even across the bottom and up the sides. Pop it in the oven and bake for 10 minutes. Once done, remove the crust and let it cool on a wire rack while you prepare the filling.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, key lime zest, and egg yolks. Whisk until you have a smooth, well-blended mixture. Pour this filling into your cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Return the pie to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, just until the filling is set but still has a slight jiggle in the center.

Allow the pie to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least 2 hours to fully set. While it chills, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Once the pie is thoroughly chilled, spread the whipped cream over the top and sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes for a touch of crunch and flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect balance of sweet and tangy with coconut for a tropical twist.
  • Simple, straightforward steps even beginners can follow.
  • Refreshing and light, making it an ideal dessert for warm weather.
  • No fancy equipment needed — just basic kitchen tools.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1/3 cup white sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup key lime juice
1 tablespoon key lime zest
3 large egg yolks
1/2 cup heavy cream, chilled
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes for garnish

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and white sugar.
3. Stir in melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
4. Press the crust mixture into a 9-inch pie pan evenly across the bottom and up the sides.
5. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from oven and let cool.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, key lime zest, and egg yolks until smooth.
7. Pour the filling into the cooled crust and spread evenly.
8. Bake for 15 minutes until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly.
9. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
10. Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
11. Spread whipped cream over chilled pie and garnish with toasted coconut flakes.
12. Slice and serve chilled for refreshing flavor.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!