How to Make Mexican Lime Pie with a Tangy Twist
Mexican lime pie is a delightful dessert that captures the vibrant flavors of Mexico with its zesty lime filling and crumbly crust. Adding a tangy twist elevates this classic dish into something special. Follow this simple recipe to create a refreshing Mexican lime pie that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
To make this tangy Mexican lime pie, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup fresh lime juice (about 4-6 limes)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
- Additional lime zest or slices, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are fully coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan to form an even layer. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool.
2. Make the Filling
While the crust is cooling, you can prepare the lime filling. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lime juice, lime zest, eggs, and salt until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy. The fresh lime juice gives the pie that classic tangy flavor, while the lime zest enhances the citrus aroma.
3. Combine and Bake
Pour the lime filling into the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. The edges may begin to slightly brown. Remove from the oven and allow the pie to cool to room temperature.
4. Chill and Serve
For best results, refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours or until it's thoroughly chilled. This step allows the flavors to meld while also firming up the texture. Before serving, you can top the pie with whipped cream and garnish with additional lime zest or slices for a beautiful presentation.
Tips for a Tangy Twist
If you want to enhance the tangy flavor of your Mexican lime pie, consider these variations:
- Add a splash of tequila or mezcal to the filling for an adult twist.
- Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the filling for a surprising kick.
- Swirl in some raspberry or berry puree before baking for a fruity contrast.
Conclusion
This Mexican lime pie with a tangy twist is a perfect dessert for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations. Its fresh, zesty flavor and creamy texture will leave your guests wanting more. So grab your ingredients and enjoy creating this delectable pie!