One Pan Key Lime Pie

Contents

Sheet Pan Key Lime Pie: The Ultimate Crowd-Pleasing Dessert

Imagine a dessert so irresistibly creamy, tart, and refreshing, it transports you straight to a sun-drenched beach with every bite. Now, imagine preparing that dessert effortlessly on a single sheet pan, ready to serve a large gathering without breaking a sweat. Welcome to the world of **Sheet Pan Key Lime Pie**! This luscious, dreamy classic is designed for convenience and maximum enjoyment, making it the perfect choice for parties, family gatherings, or any occasion where you need to impress a crowd with minimal fuss. Forget individual slices; this slab pie offers generous portions of pure Key Lime bliss.

For those who adore the bright, zesty flavor of lime, this dessert is an absolute dream come true. The vibrant aroma of fresh lime instantly evokes memories of delicious margaritas, zesty salsas, and carefree summer days. There’s a certain freshness that lime brings, an immediate burst of sunshine for your palate. And when Melissa’s Produce sent a box brimming with culinary treasures, including a generous bounty of fresh Key Limes, the excitement was palpable! Along with an array of other incredible produce, crepes, and gourmet dessert sauces, it truly felt like the BEST. MAIL. DAY. EVER.

The Allure of Key Limes: A Zesty Delight

What exactly makes Key Limes so special, and why are they the star of this iconic pie? Key Limes are distinct miniature versions of the more common Persian limes, typically about one-eighth the size. While their diminutive stature might suggest less potency, the opposite is true. Key Limes boast a more intense, tart flavor profile and higher acidity compared to their larger counterparts. Their skin also tends to be thinner and can appear slightly more yellow when ripe, distinguishing them visually as well as by taste. You’ll often find them alongside other citrus fruits in the produce section of your local grocery store, making them relatively easy to source for this sensational dessert.

The unique, aromatic zest and juice of Key Limes are fundamental to achieving the authentic, vibrant flavor that sets a true Key Lime Pie apart. While regular limes can be used in a pinch, they won’t quite replicate that signature tartness and depth. For the most genuine and unforgettable taste, always opt for fresh Key Limes when possible. As a general rule, avoid bottled lime juice for any citrus-centric recipe; these often contain preservatives and lack the pure, bright essence of freshly squeezed fruit, which can significantly compromise the final flavor of your pie.

Why a Sheet Pan for Key Lime Pie? Effortless Elegance for a Crowd

If you’re a fan of convenient, crowd-pleasing meals, then you already understand the magic of a sheet pan. From savory dishes like Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaves and Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas to delightful treats like Sheet Pan S’mores, the sheet pan is a kitchen hero. Applying this simple technique to dessert, especially a classic like Key Lime Pie, is an absolute game-changer. Some affectionately call sheet pan pies “slab pies,” and whether you prefer one name or the other, they refer to the same brilliant concept: baking a large-format pie in a standard Jelly Roll Pan.

The advantages of making Key Lime Pie in a sheet pan are numerous. First and foremost, it’s incredibly efficient for feeding a large group. A single sheet pan pie can easily yield 20 or more servings, making it ideal for potlucks, barbecues, holidays, or any celebratory occasion. The rectangular shape also makes for easy, uniform slicing and serving, eliminating the awkwardness often associated with cutting round pies. Furthermore, baking in a sheet pan ensures more even cooking and a consistent crust-to-filling ratio in every piece. It’s a no-fuss method that guarantees a delicious outcome every time, leaving you more time to enjoy your event.

Crafting the Perfect Graham Cracker Crust

The foundation of any great Key Lime Pie is its crust, and for this sheet pan version, a simple yet delicious graham cracker crust takes center stage. This classic crust provides a delightful textural contrast to the smooth, creamy filling, offering a subtly sweet and crumbly base. To make it, you’ll simply process graham crackers into fine crumbs, then combine them with sugar and melted unsalted butter. This mixture is then pressed firmly into your prepared 15 x 10-inch jelly roll pan. A brief pre-bake of 8-10 minutes is crucial to set the crust and achieve a beautiful golden brown color, preventing it from becoming soggy once the filling is added. Allow the crust to cool slightly before pouring in the Key Lime goodness.

For those seeking shortcuts, a store-bought frozen pie crust can also be adapted. Simply roll out the dough into a 19×14-inch rectangle, carefully placing it into your 15×10-inch pan and trimming any excess that overhangs the edges. Pre-bake this crust for about 7-8 minutes until lightly golden, then proceed with the filling as directed. While the homemade graham cracker crust offers an unparalleled flavor, a store-bought option can certainly save you time in a pinch without sacrificing too much on taste or texture.

The Luscious Key Lime Filling: A Symphony of Sweet and Tart

Once your crust is pre-baked and cooled, the magic truly begins with the preparation of the velvety Key Lime filling. This simple yet elegant mixture combines a handful of essential ingredients that harmonize to create that signature sweet and tart flavor. In a large bowl, you’ll whisk together sweetened condensed milk, large eggs, freshly grated Key Lime zest, the star ingredient—freshly squeezed Key Lime juice—along with a touch of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. The Key Lime zest is paramount here, as it carries much of the essential oil and intense lime fragrance that elevates the pie’s aroma and flavor profile.

Allowing this mixture to sit for about 10 minutes before pouring it into the crust is a small but important step, as it helps the mixture thicken slightly, contributing to the pie’s smooth, set texture. Once poured into the pre-baked graham cracker crust, the pie bakes for an additional 10 minutes, or until the filling is just set and no longer jiggly in the center. After baking, the pie needs ample time to chill in the refrigerator—at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight—to allow the filling to firm up completely, reaching that perfect creamy consistency. This cooling period is crucial for achieving clean slices and the optimal dessert experience.

Sheet Pan Key Lime Pie: Your New Go-To for Cool and Creamy Dessert Delights!

This Sheet Pan Key Lime Pie is destined to become your new favorite way to enjoy and serve this iconic, cool, and creamy dessert. It beautifully balances the pucker-inducing tartness of Key Limes with the rich sweetness of condensed milk, all nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust. Whether you’re planning a casual backyard BBQ or an elegant spring brunch, this slab pie offers a stunning presentation and an unforgettable taste that will have everyone reaching for a second slice.

To serve, a dollop of fresh whipped topping is highly recommended, as its creamy texture and mild sweetness perfectly complement the vibrant lime. A final sprinkle of fresh lime zest and a few delicate lime slices can add an elegant touch and further enhance the citrus aroma. This pie isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavor and simplicity, designed to bring joy to any table.

2 votes

Sheet Pan Key Lime Pie

Prep 10 mins

Cook 20 mins

Inactive 4 hours

Total 4 hours, 30 mins

Author Megan | Strawberry Blondie Kitchen

Yield 20 servings

Sheet Pan Key Lime Pie is luscious, dreamy and a creamy classic made all on one sheet pan to feed a crowd!

Ingredients

3 cups graham cracker crumbs, (about 2 1/2 packages)
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 (14 oz cans) sweetened condensed milk
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons key lime zest
1 1/4 cups (about 5 lbs worth) fresh key lime juice*
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
whipped topping, lime zest and lime slices for garnish, if desired

*Can’t find key limes? You can use regular limes.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F degrees. Coat a 15 x 10″ jelly roll pan with cooking spray.
Process crackers in a food processor until fine crumbs form. Add in sugar and butter.
Press crumb mixture into prepared jelly roll pan and bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and allow to cool.
Into a large bowl whisk together sweetened condensed milk, eggs, lime zest, lime juice, vanilla and salt. Allow mixture to sit for 10 minutes to thicken.
Pour into prepared pan and bake for 10 minutes or until just set.
Cover with saran wrap and place into the refrigerator to firm up for at least 4 hours.
Serve with whipped topping, a sprinkle of lime zest and lime slices, if desired.

Notes

Slightly adapted from Paula Deen

Courses Dessert

Cuisine American

Frequently Asked Questions About Key Lime Pie

Can I use regular limes instead of Key Limes in Key Lime Pie?

Yes, you absolutely can! While Key Limes offer a unique, more tart flavor profile and vibrant aroma that defines the classic Key Lime Pie, regular limes (Persian limes) can certainly be used as a substitute. Keep in mind that regular limes are larger and generally less acidic, so you might need fewer of them to achieve the required 1 1/4 cups of juice. The flavor will be slightly milder, but it will still produce a delicious lime pie. Again, always opt for fresh juice over bottled for the best taste.

Can I use a store-bought pie crust for Key Lime Pie?

You certainly can! While a homemade graham cracker crust is a beloved classic for Key Lime Pie, a store-bought frozen pie crust can be a convenient alternative. If using a frozen crust, you’ll need to roll out the dough to fit the dimensions of your 15×10-inch sheet pan, aiming for roughly a 19×14-inch rectangle, and then trim any excess. Remember to pre-bake the store-bought crust for about 7-8 minutes until it’s lightly golden before adding the filling. This ensures a crisp base and prevents it from becoming soggy.

How do I know when my Key Lime Pie is set?

The Key Lime Pie filling is quite delicate and can easily be overbaked. You’ll know it’s set when the edges appear firm and slightly puffed, but the very center still has a slight jiggle. This slight movement in the center is perfectly normal and indicates that the pie will firm up completely during the chilling process. Overbaking can lead to a rubbery texture, so it’s better to err on the side of slightly underbaked than overbaked.

How long does Key Lime Pie last?

When properly stored in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, Sheet Pan Key Lime Pie can last for 3-4 days. It’s best enjoyed within the first two days for optimal freshness and texture. Due to its dairy content, it’s not recommended to leave the pie at room temperature for extended periods.

I absolutely adore how wonderfully this Sheet Pan Key Lime Pie turned out. The convenience, the irresistible flavor, and the sheer volume it produces make it a fantastic recipe for any occasion. I’m already envisioning a Key Lime Pie Martini to celebrate the upcoming spring season, so stay tuned for that! A huge thank you once again to Melissa’s Produce for the incredible box of goodies; we truly savored every bit!

A Look Back at #SpringSweetsWeek 2019

This Sheet Pan Key Lime Pie was proudly featured during #SpringSweetsWeek 2019, an exciting culinary event hosted by Heather from Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks and Christie from A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures. This annual celebration brings together dozens of bloggers from across the country to share over 100 sweet recipes, perfectly suited for the vibrant spring season. From delightful cupcakes and cookies to sweet breads and refreshing cocktails, #SpringSweetsWeek is always a fantastic way to welcome warmer weather and indulge in delicious treats.

The event was made possible by the generous support of our sponsors, who not only contributed to a fantastic giveaway but also provided products to the participating bloggers. We extend our sincere gratitude to Swiss Diamond, Dixie Crystals, Nancy’s Yogurt, Sprinkle Pop, Adams Extracts, Barlean’s, Melissa’s Produce, and PEEPS®. Their contributions helped make #SpringSweetsWeek a memorable event for all involved.

During #SpringSweetsWeek, participants had the chance to win incredible prizes, including:

Prize #1: Swiss Diamond Cookware offered an XD Nonstick 6 Piece Newlywed Kitchen Kit, featuring a 9.5″ fry pan, an 8″ fry pan, a 2.2-quart saucepan with lid, and a 5.5-quart soup pot with lid. Known for its superior heat distribution and nonstick properties thanks to diamond-reinforced coating, Swiss Diamond cookware ensures efficient cooking without excess oil or butter. Founded in 1974, Swiss Diamond International SA has pioneered revolutionary nonstick coatings for cookware. For more, visit https://www.swissdiamond.com/.

Prize #2: Dixie Crystals provided one winner with the Wilton Ultimate Cake Decorating Tools Set. This comprehensive set, ideal for decorating cakes made with Dixie Crystals sugar, included 263 pieces: piping tips, a practice board, decorating bags, spatulas, flower nails, an icing comb, and a variety of fondant tools. Dixie Crystals, a trusted name since 1917, offers all-natural, non-GMO pure cane sugar products. Explore recipes and baking tips at www.dixiecrystals.com.

Prize #3: Melissa’s Produce awarded one winner an Organic Family Produce Box, packed with 100% organic fruits and vegetables like kale, cucumbers, apples, lemons, carrots, and more, making it easy to enjoy healthy produce. Established by Joe and Sharon Hernandez, Melissa’s Produce has grown from a small operation to a leading supplier of fresh produce, including exotics and organic lines. Discover their offerings and recipes at https://www.melissas.com.

Prize #4: Nancy’s Yogurt presented a fabulous tote bag filled with free product coupons, a T-shirt, recipe cards, and Post-Its. Chuck and Sue Kesey founded Springfield Creamery in 1960, with Nancy Van Brasch Hamren later introducing the first yogurt with live probiotics to the U.S. Nancy’s Yogurt now distributes to all 50 states, offering over 100 cultured dairy and soy products. Learn more at https://nancysyogurt.com/.

Prize #5: PEEPS offered a gift card to PEEPS® & Co., allowing the winner to choose from a variety of delicious PEEPS® candy items, apparel, and fun gifts like blankets and plush bunnies. Just Born, the company behind PEEPS®, was founded in 1923 and is known for its iconic marshmallow candies. Shop for PEEPS® & Co. products and gifts at https://www.marshmallowpeeps.com/.

Prize #6: Barlean’s provided one winner with a bottle of Seriously Delicious Omega-3, Extra Strength Ideal CBD Hemp Oil, and a bag of Super Seeds. Barlean’s products aim to support mind and body health, with Omega-3s and CBD oil known for their benefits, and Super Seeds adding antioxidants to meals. Barlean’s is committed to making natural supplements and using profits to support outreach programs. Find out more at www.barleans.com.

Prize #7: Adams Extract awarded one winner four amazing extracts and a set of food colors, including Pure Almond, Pure Vanilla, Pure Lemon, and Adams Best Twice as Strong Vanilla. Founded in 1888 by John A. Adams, the company developed the renowned Adams Best vanilla formula. Today, Adams manufactures and markets a wide range of extracts and seasonings. Explore their products and recipes at https://www.adamsextract.com/default.aspx.

Prize #8: Sprinkle Pop delighted one winner with six fabulous sprinkle mixes from their Easter collection: Hangin’ with my Peeps, Bewitched, Signature, Green Tea, Cottontail Confetti, and Egg Hunt. Founded by Liz Butts, Sprinkle Pop creates custom, vibrant, and luxurious sprinkle blends, with over 50% of their sprinkles dyed in-house. Discover their unique sprinkles and community initiatives at https://sprinklepop.shop/.

Thank you #SpringSweetsWeek Sponsors: Dixie Crystals, Swiss Diamond, Nancy’s Yogurt, Barlean’s, Sprinkle Pop, PEEPS, Melissa’s Produce, and Adams Extracts for providing the prizes free of charge. These companies also provided the bloggers with samples and product to use for #SpringSweetsWeek recipes. All opinions expressed in the content are my own. The #SpringSweetsWeek giveaway was open to residents of the United States who were 18 years of age or older. All entries for the winner were checked and verified. By entering, participants gave the right to use their name and likeness. The number of entries received determined the odds of winning. Eight (8) winners were selected. The prize packages were sent directly from the giveaway sponsors. The #SpringSweetsWeek Bloggers were not responsible for the fulfillment or delivery of the prize packages. Bloggers hosting this giveaway and their immediate family members in their household could not enter or win the giveaway. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited by law. This promotion was in no way sponsored, endorsed, or administered by, or associated with Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter, or any other social channel mentioned in the #SpringSweetsWeek posts or entry.

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