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Triple Decker Key Lime Pie

A delightful lime pie featuring three luscious layers: a buttery graham cracker crust, a tangy key lime filling, and a creamy whipped topping.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs These create that classic buttery base; feel free to crush them by hand for a little satisfying workout!
  • 0.25 cups granulated sugar Just a hint to sweeten the crust and balance the tartness of the filling.
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted This brings everything together; make sure it’s warm and liquidy for easier mixing.
For the First Layer (Classic Key Lime)
  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz) A creamy delight that adds richness and a touch of sweetness.
  • 0.5 cups key lime juice (fresh or bottled) The star of the show! Fresh juice packs a punch, but bottled works great too.
  • 1 tablespoon key lime zest This zesty addition brightens up the flavor — don’t skip it!
  • 3 large egg yolks They lend a luxurious creaminess to the filling.
For the Second Layer (Creamy Lime Cheesecake)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Make sure this is at room temperature; it makes for a smoother batter.
  • 0.25 cups granulated sugar Just a touch to balance the tangy goodness of the lime.
  • 1 large egg To help bind everything together; make it room temperature for the best results!
  • 1 tablespoon key lime juice A splash adds that extra zing to the creamy layer.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract It rounds off the flavors beautifully.
For the Third Layer (Whipped Cream Topping)
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream Oh-so-fluffy! Look for high-fat cream for the best results.
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar This adds just the right amount of sweetness to the light and airy topping.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract A hint of warmth to complement the tart lime.
Garnish
  • 1 tablespoon additional lime zest Everything’s prettier with zest; sprinkle some on top for a pop of color!
  • to taste lime slices or twists For that Instagram-ready look and a little extra zing when served.

Method
 

Prepare the Crust
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish to form an even crust. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove it and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
Make the First Layer (Classic Key Lime)
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, key lime zest, and egg yolks until well combined. Pour the mixture into the cooled crust and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for another 15 minutes, then set it aside to cool while we move on to the next layer.
Make the Second Layer (Creamy Lime Cheesecake)
  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the granulated sugar, egg, key lime juice, and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined. Gently spread this cheesecake mixture over the cooled first layer.
Bake the Pie
  1. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Bake the pie for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cheesecake layer is set and slightly jiggly in the center. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool at room temperature before popping it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to let all those layers and flavors meld together perfectly!
Make the Third Layer (Whipped Cream Topping)
  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled pie.
Garnish and Serve
  1. Garnish with additional lime zest and lime slices or twists for some extra flair. Slice into your Triple Decker Key Lime Pie and enjoy!

Notes

Chill time is key: Be patient and let your pie chill long enough to set those luscious layers. Fresh vs. bottled: Fresh key lime juice is fabulous, but bottled is perfectly acceptable if you're in a pinch. Experiment with sweetness: Adjust sugar levels in the crust or filling according to your taste preferences!