Introduction
Welcome to a delightful journey through the flavors of Pepe’s Cafe, renowned for its exquisite Key Lime Pie. This recipe captures the essence and traditional preparation methods that have made this pie a local favorite.
Tips for this Recipe
- For an authentic taste, use fresh Key limes instead of bottled juice when possible.
- Ensure ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a smooth filling and crust.
- Preheating the oven before baking is crucial for consistent results.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
The harmony of tangy Key lime and creamy filling, paired with a buttery crust, creates an unforgettable dessert. Its nostalgic connection to Southern cuisine makes it a beloved classic.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (from about 12 crackers)
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 large egg whites
4 large egg yolks
1 can (14-ounce) sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup Key lime juice
1 cup heavy cream
Advised Equipment
- Pie Dish (9-inch): For the pie’s base and decoration.
- Mixer with Whisk Attachments: For smoothly combining ingredients, particularly in making the filling.
- Baking Sheet: Useful for pre-baking crust or after assembling the pie.
- Oven Thermometer: To ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
- Electric Hand Mixer: Easy to use for mixing ingredients like whipped cream and egg yolks.
- Kitchen Scale: For precise measurement of ingredients, crucial in baking.
- Wire Cooling Rack: To properly cool the pie after baking.
- Ice Cream Scoop or Pie Server: Great for serving and portion control.
History of the Recipe
The Key Lime Pie originated from the Florida Keys, a treasure trove of tropical flavors. With roots in 1930s Key West, it was initially made by local residents using ingredients at hand, like limes and eggs, to create a refreshing dessert that has stood the test of time.
Fun Facts About This Recipe
Did you know? Despite its name, Key Lime Pies are not made exclusively with key limes but also often use regular (Ruby) limes when key limes are out of season or hard to come by. However, the distinctive sharp and tangy flavor comes from using these tart little fruits that thrive in Florida’s unique climate.