Key Lime Pie originated in the Florida Keys in the early 20th century, where the native key lime’s bright acidity was paired with abundant sweetened condensed milk, a product of early canning. It has become a classic Southern dessert, symbolizing the tropical flavors of the Gulf Coast.

In the Florida Keys the pie is made with fresh key lime juice and a graham cracker crust. In other parts of the South, some cooks use a shortbread crust or add a splash of orange liqueur. A “no‑bake” version also exists, where the filling is set with gelatin instead of baking.

Traditionally the pie is served chilled, topped with a light dollop of whipped cream and a thin slice of key lime or a sprinkle of lime zest. It is often enjoyed as a refreshing end to a seafood dinner or at beachside gatherings.

Key Lime Pie is popular at summer barbecues, Fourth of July picnics, and Florida tourism events. It’s also a staple dessert for holiday meals in the Gulf Coast region because its bright flavor balances richer dishes.

Authentic ingredients include fresh key lime juice, key lime zest, sweetened condensed milk, and a graham cracker crust. Acceptable substitutes are regular lime juice (though more bitter) and digestive biscuits for the crust, but the flavor profile will shift slightly.

Key Lime Pie pairs beautifully with light Southern mains such as grilled shrimp, blackened fish, or a fresh cucumber salad. A chilled glass of sweet tea or a crisp Riesling also complements the tartness.

Common mistakes include over‑mixing the crust (making it soggy), under‑beating the egg yolks (resulting in a grainy filling), and not baking the filling to the proper internal temperature, which leaves it runny. Also, avoid using too much regular lime juice, which can make the pie overly bitter.

Baking the filling gently cooks the egg yolks, creating a smooth, custard‑like texture that sets firmly and develops a richer flavor. A no‑bake version relies on gelatin, which can give a slightly wobblier mouthfeel.

Yes. Bake the crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance, then keep the pie covered in the refrigerator. Add the whipped cream topping just before serving to keep it airy.

The filling should be set around the edges with a slight wobble in the center that firms up as it cools. The surface will be smooth and slightly glossy, and an instant‑read thermometer should read about 145°F in the middle.

The YouTube channel Binging with Babish, hosted by Andrew Rea, specializes in recreating iconic dishes from movies, TV shows, and pop culture while teaching fundamental cooking techniques for home cooks.

Binging with Babish combines cinematic storytelling with clear, step‑by‑step instruction, often breaking down complex desserts like Key Lime Pie into simple, repeatable techniques, whereas many channels focus solely on recipe presentation without the behind‑the‑scenes context.

Binging with Babish is known for recreating classics such as Chocolate Chip Cookies, Red Velvet Cake, Banana Bread, and the iconic "Friends" Central Perk Coffee Cake, among many other beloved sweets.