Publix Key Lime Pie Recipe: homemade copycat

Known for its tangy, creamy filling and buttery graham cracker crust, the Key Lime Pie is a beloved dessert that has its roots in the sunny state of Florida.

This delightful treat takes center stage in family gatherings and outdoor picnics, garnering admiration for its zesty flavor that derives from the juice of key limes.

While recipes for Key Lime Pie can vary, many people have come to cherish the version offered by Publix—a popular grocery chain with a reputation for delicious bakery items.

The pie strikes a delectable balance between tart and sweet, embodied in each silky smooth slice.

I find myself reminiscing about the slices of Key Lime Pie I’ve enjoyed during my travels through Florida, each bite a reminder of carefree days spent under the palm trees.

Making this pie at home allows me to bring a piece of Florida’s culinary heritage into my kitchen.

With the right ingredients and a little patience, anyone can recreate the Publix Key Lime Pie.

The process involves a few steps that build up to the creation of an indulgent dessert sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Embracing the simplicity of the recipe, which often features condensed milk and a few other key components, ensures that this dessert is both easy to make and delightfully satisfying.

Key Takeaways

• Key Lime Pie embodies the flavors of Florida with its tart and sweet profile.
• Quality ingredients are crucial for achieving the authentic taste of the pie.
• The recipe is accessible, allowing home cooks to easily recreate the Publix classic.

Ingredient Breakdown

When I make a key lime pie, the joy is in the details. I’ll walk you through the key components for each part of the pie—the crust, the filling, and the topping.

Crust Components

The base layer of a key lime pie starts with a graham cracker crust. To make my crust I need:

• 1 1/2 cups of finely ground graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup of sugar to add a touch of sweetness
• A pinch of salt to balance the flavors

I mix these ingredients until everything is well combined and press the mixture into my pie dish, which then gets baked to perfection for a beautifully crisp and golden crust.

Filling Fundamentals

The heart of the key lime pie is in its tart and creamy filling. Here’s what I use:

• 2 cans (14 ounces each) of sweetened condensed milk for that rich, creamy texture
• 2/3 cup of key lime juice, freshly squeezed from about 20 key limes, for that authentic Florida flavor
• The zest from these limes, when I want to enhance the lime essence further
• 4 large eggs, which help set the filling

I whisk these together until smooth, then pour the filling into the cooked crust and bake until it sets, creating the perfect filling for my Publix key lime pie recipe.

Topping & Garnish

Every pie needs a crowning glory. Here’s what goes on top of mine:

• I beat heavy cream to create a pillowy whipped cream, sweetened with a bit of powdered sugar
• Sometimes, I’ll add toasted almonds or coconut on top for an extra crunch
• I finish it off with a sprinkle of additional lime zest for that extra pop of color and flavor

These toppings and garnishes not only add to the appearance but also introduce a variety of textures to delight the palate with each bite.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

I love baking, and there’s nothing quite like the fresh, tart taste of a homemade key lime pie! Publix has a signature recipe that’s quite delightful. I’ll guide you through a simple version of this recipe in just a few steps. Let’s get our aprons on and start with the crust!

Preparing the Crust

Prep Time: 10 minutes

1. Ingredients:

   • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
   • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
   • 6 tbsp melted butter

2. Instructions:

   • Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
   • Press the mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie dish to form the crust.
   • Optional: For an extra touch, mix in some toasted almonds for a nutty flavor.

Mixing the Filling

Prep Time: 5 minutes

1. Ingredients:

   • 1 can sweetened condensed milk
   • 1 cup key lime juice
   • 4 egg yolks

2. Instructions:

   • Whisk together the condensed milk, key lime juice, and egg yolks until you achieve a smooth consistency.

Assembling and Baking

Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes

1. Baking:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
   • Pour the filling into the prepared graham cracker crust.
   • Bake until the filling is set, but still slightly wobbly in the center.

Adding Toppings

Total Time: 5 minutes plus refrigeration

1. Ingredients:

   • Toasted coconut
   • Whipped cream
   • Lime zest

2. Instructions:

   • Once the pie has cooled, refrigerate for at least 6 hours.
   • Before serving, decorate with whipped cream, a sprinkling of toasted coconut, and lime zest for a beautiful and delicious finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

In this section, I’ll cover some of the common questions about preparing and enjoying a key lime pie!

What are the main ingredients in a traditional key lime pie?

The essential components of a traditional key lime pie include key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and eggs. These come together to form the pie’s tangy filling, which is nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust and often topped with whipped cream.

Can regular lime juice be substituted for key lime juice in a key lime pie recipe?

Yes, regular lime juice can be used, but it will change the flavor profile. Key lime juice is preferred for its unique tartness and aroma, which are characteristic of a classic key lime pie. However, using regular lime juice can still yield a delicious dessert.

How does one make a key lime pie similar to Publix’s version at home?

To replicate Publix’s key lime pie at home, whisk sweetened condensed milk with key lime juice for the filling and pour it into a graham cracker crust. After the filling sets, top it with whipped cream for that signature Publix taste.

What nutritional information should be considered when enjoying a key lime pie?

Key lime pie is rich in calories and sugar due to the condensed milk and graham cracker crust. Moderation is key if you’re watching your calorie or sugar intake—as delicious as it may be, key lime pie is a treat best enjoyed occasionally.

How much does a Publix key lime pie typically cost?

The cost of a Publix key lime pie may vary by location, but you can expect to pay around the range of $7 to $10 for their in-store bakery pie.

What makes the Publix key lime pie stand out from other key lime pies?

Publix’s key lime pie stands out due to its balance of tart and sweet flavors. It also has a creamy filling and the convenience of a ready-to-eat dessert.

It’s also a staple in a region where key lime pie is a beloved tradition.