Summer just got a whole lot sweeter with these 18 zesty key lime recipes! As the temperatures rise, our taste buds crave something refreshing and tangy to beat the heat. Key lime, with its bright citrus flavor, is the perfect ingredient to add some sunshine to your summer cooking. From classic desserts like pie and cheesecake bars, to creative twists on cocktails and snacks, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re a key lime newbie or a longtime fan of this tart and tangy fruit, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure. So go ahead, crack open that jar of key lime juice and get ready to make some unforgettable memories at the beach, BBQ, or just in your own backyard.
Classic Key Lime Pie
This iconic dessert is a staple of Florida cuisine, with its tangy key lime filling and flaky crust. This recipe yields a deliciously creamy pie that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1/2 cup condensed milk
– Whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients until well combined. Press into a 9-inch pie dish.
3. Bake crust for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks and key lime juice until smooth.
5. Add condensed milk and whisk until well combined.
6. Pour filling into baked crust and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes or until filling is set.
7. Allow pie to cool completely before serving. Top with whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 23-28 minutes
Key Lime Cheesecake Bars
Brighten up your day with these tangy and sweet Key Lime Cheesecake Bars! A perfect blend of creamy cheesecake, zesty key lime juice, and a buttery crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Mix crust ingredients; press into prepared pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar and beat until combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by key lime juice and vanilla extract.
5. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Key Lime Coconut Macaroons
These chewy, sweet, and tangy macaroons are infused with the brightness of key lime zest and the richness of coconut. Perfect for a warm weather treat or a tropical getaway in your taste buds!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites, at room temperature
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon key lime zest
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup shredded coconut, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, unsweetened shredded coconut, and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whip egg whites and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form. Add salt and whipped until combined.
4. Add melted butter and key lime zest to the egg mixture; whip until smooth.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, whipping until combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
8. Allow to cool completely on wire rack before serving. Garnish with shredded coconut.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Key Lime Pound Cake
Experience the brightness of Key lime zest and juice in this moist and buttery pound cake, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons grated Key lime zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed Key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in Key lime zest and juice.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, beating just until combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 1 hour, 5-10 minutes
Key Lime Margarita
Brighten up your cocktail hour with this refreshing twist on the classic margarita, infused with the tangy sweetness of key lime.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces tequila (preferably a silver or blanco)
– 1 ounce freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1/2 ounce triple sec
– Salt for rimming glass
– Lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, key lime juice, and triple sec.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge.
Cooking Time: None! This is a quick and easy cocktail recipe that’s ready in just a few minutes.
Key Lime Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
These moist and flavorful cupcakes are infused with the brightness of key lime juice, perfectly balanced by a tangy cream cheese frosting. A perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Cream cheese frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and whisk until combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by key lime juice and vanilla extract.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract and powdered sugar; beat until combined.
Key Lime Icebox Cake
A classic dessert that’s as refreshing as a tropical getaway, this Key Lime Icebox Cake is a creamy and tangy treat that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup key lime juice
– Whipped cream and lime zest for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs, sugar, and butter until well combined. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add confectioners’ sugar and beat until combined.
4. Beat in egg yolks and key lime juice.
5. Pour filling over crust. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Release springform pan sides and garnish with whipped cream and lime zest, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no-bake)
Key Lime Mousse
Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing Key Lime Mousse, featuring the bright citrus flavor of key limes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large egg whites
– 2 teaspoons grated key lime zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
– Whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream and whole milk until soft peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, softened butter, egg whites, key lime zest, and key lime juice until well combined.
3. Fold the wet ingredients into the whipped cream mixture until smooth.
4. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Just before serving, garnish with whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is best served chilled.
Key Lime Cookies with White Chocolate Drizzle
Treat your taste buds to a tangy and sweet combination of Key lime zest, white chocolate, and crunchy cookies.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tbsp freshly squeezed Key lime juice
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– White chocolate chips for drizzling (about 1/4 cup)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by Key lime juice and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
8. Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
9. Drizzle melted white chocolate over cooled cookies.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes per batch
Key Lime Tartlets
These bite-sized Key Lime Tartlets are the perfect treat for any occasion. With a shortbread crust, a tangy Key lime filling, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top, they’re sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed Key lime juice
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into small squares, about 3 inches per side.
3. Place squares onto prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
4. Allow shortbread to cool completely. In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, egg yolks, and Key lime juice until smooth.
5. Spoon a small amount of the filling mixture onto each cooled shortbread square. Dust with powdered sugar and serve.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Key Lime Mojito
Escape to the tropics with this refreshing twist on the classic mojito cocktail. Key lime and mint come together to create a tangy and revitalizing drink perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz white rum
– 1 oz fresh key lime juice
– 1 oz club soda
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tsp sugar
– Ice
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release the oils and flavor.
2. Add the rum, key lime juice, and sugar to the shaker. Fill with ice and shake for 15-20 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
4. Top with club soda and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Key Lime Yogurt Parfait
A refreshing and tangy dessert that combines the brightness of key lime with the creaminess of yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup granola
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, key lime juice, and honey until smooth.
2. Spoon half of the yogurt mixture into a parfait glass or tall clear cup.
3. Top with granola and mixed berries.
4. Repeat the layers, starting with the yogurt mixture again.
5. If desired, top with whipped cream.
6. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready in just a few minutes.
Key Lime Panna Cotta
This refreshing dessert combines the brightness of key lime juice with the creaminess of panna cotta, perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a sweet pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 3 large egg yolks
– 2 tbsp key lime juice (freshly squeezed or bottled)
– 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add key lime juice to the egg yolks, whisking until smooth.
3. Temper the egg yolk mixture by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
4. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large baking dish. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Just before serving, sprinkle with salt to balance the sweetness.
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Refrigeration Time: 4 hours or overnight
Enjoy your creamy and tangy Key Lime Panna Cotta!
Key Lime Sorbet
A refreshing and tangy dessert perfect for warm weather, this Key Lime Sorbet is a simple and elegant treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon grated lime zest
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and 1/4 cup of the key lime juice. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the water and grated lime zest. Let cool to room temperature.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once frozen, scoop into cones or bowls and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Key Lime Coconut Pie
A tangy and sweet twist on traditional key lime pie, this recipe adds the creamy richness of coconut to create a unique dessert experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients until well combined.
3. Press crust mixture into a 9-inch pie dish and bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks, key lime juice, sugar, shredded coconut, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Pour filling into the prepared pie crust and bake for 15-18 minutes or until filling is set.
6. Allow pie to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 23-28 minutes
Key Lime Shortbread Cookies
Brighten up your day with these refreshing Key Lime Shortbread Cookies! Moist and buttery, with a hint of citrus from the key lime juice, they’re perfect for a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons key lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter, granulated sugar, key lime juice, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Yield: About 24-30 cookies
Key Lime Pudding
Brighten up your dessert game with this refreshing Key Lime Pudding recipe! This tangy and sweet treat is perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a burst of citrus flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed Key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and egg yolks.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the Key lime juice and vanilla extract.
5. Strain the pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
7. Just before serving, top with whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Key Lime Martini
A refreshing twist on the classic martini, this Key Lime version combines the tartness of key lime juice with the sweetness of sweetened condensed milk and a hint of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces vodka
– 1 ounce key lime juice
– 1/2 ounce sweetened condensed milk
– 1/2 ounce simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the vodka, key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and serve.
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and tangy flavors of summer with these 18 zesty key lime recipes! From classic pie to cheesecake bars, macaroons, and more, there’s something for every key lime lover. Enjoy refreshing drinks like margaritas and mojitos, or satisfy your sweet tooth with cupcakes, cookies, and other treats. Perfect for a summer party or just a quick dessert fix, these recipes are sure to brighten up your day. So go ahead, get creative, and make this the best summer ever!
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