Mini Key Pies
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Savor the delightful taste of summer with these Mini Key Pies, a perfect combination of zesty lime and creamy filling nestled in a buttery crust. Ideal for parties or a sweet treat at home, these bite-sized desserts are a fun twist on the classic Key Lime Pie. Easy to make and utterly delicious, they are bound to impress your family and friends!
Discover the joy of creating these Mini Key Pies, where the essence of summer shines through every bite.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These Mini Key Pies are not just a treat for the taste buds; they are also visually appealing and come in a convenient bite-sized form. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, a birthday party, or a casual get-together, these desserts are sure to be the highlight of your dessert table. Their vibrant lime color adds a pop of cheer, making them festive and attractive, drawing guests to indulge in their tangy sweetness.
They are also a fantastic choice for potlucks and picnics. Easy to transport and serve, Mini Key Pies allow everyone to enjoy a piece without the mess of slicing larger pies. Plus, their individual portions mean that guests can grab one and mingle without worrying about utensils or plates. So, whether it’s a formal event or a spontaneous gathering, these pies are perfect for sharing.
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the best aspects of making Mini Key Pies is how quick and straightforward the process is. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up these delightful desserts in no time. The graham cracker crust comes together effortlessly, and the filling requires nothing more than a quick whisking. This ease of preparation makes them an excellent choice for busy bakers who still want to impress with homemade treats.
Moreover, you can prepare the crust and filling ahead of time, saving time on the day of your gathering. Just bake the crusts in advance, and store them. When you're ready to serve, simply fill them with the tangy mixture, and pop them in the oven. In just a matter of minutes, you’ll have freshly baked Mini Key Pies ready to enjoy!
Customization Options
While the classic recipe for Mini Key Pies is delicious on its own, it also offers plenty of room for creativity. Feel free to experiment with various toppings such as whipped cream, toasted coconut, or fresh berries to elevate your dessert. These additions not only enhance the presentation, but they also provide different flavor combinations that can cater to diverse palates.
For those who enjoy crafting unique desserts, why not try adding different flavors to the filling? You can incorporate fruit purees or different citrus juices to create variations like orange or grapefruit mini pies. This not only adds a fun twist but also allows you to adapt the dessert to seasonal fruits, ensuring freshness and variety.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your Mini Key Pies.
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start making the mini pies!
Instructions
Follow these easy steps for a delightful dessert experience.
Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a mini muffin pan to form crusts.
Make the Filling
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, and salt until smooth.
Fill the Crusts
Pour the filling into the crusts, filling each mini pie about three-quarters full.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the filling is set. Allow to cool before removing from the pan.
Serve and Enjoy
Once cooled, serve chilled and enjoy your delicious Mini Key Pies!
Enjoy your baking, and don’t forget to share with friends!
Storage Tips
After preparing your Mini Key Pies, proper storage is key to maintaining their deliciousness. These treats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cool temperature helps to keep the filling firm and refreshing. Remember to allow them to cool completely before placing them in the container to prevent condensation, which could make the crust soggy.
If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. After baking and cooling, place the pies in a single layer in a freezer-friendly bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight for a delightful treat that tastes just as fresh as when you first made them.
Serving Suggestions
Serving Mini Key Pies is part of the fun! For an elegant touch, you can serve them on a tiered dessert stand, draping a bit of parchment paper between layers for a stylish presentation. Pair them with refreshing drinks such as iced tea or lemonade to enhance their zesty flavors. They are also perfect alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for those who want a little extra indulgence.
Garnishing is another way to elevate your pies. Consider adding a sprinkle of lime zest or a few mint leaves atop each pie before serving to give a fresh look. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a touch of sweetness, creating a delightful contrast against the tart filling.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pies a day in advance and keep them refrigerated.
→ How can I store leftover pies?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Mini Key Pies
Savor the delightful taste of summer with these Mini Key Pies, a perfect combination of zesty lime and creamy filling nestled in a buttery crust. Ideal for parties or a sweet treat at home, these bite-sized desserts are a fun twist on the classic Key Lime Pie. Easy to make and utterly delicious, they are bound to impress your family and friends!
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 12 mini pies
What You'll Need
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a mini muffin pan to form crusts.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, and salt until smooth.
Pour the filling into the crusts, filling each mini pie about three-quarters full.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the filling is set. Allow to cool before removing from the pan.
Once cooled, serve chilled and enjoy your delicious Mini Key Pies!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 2g