Key Lime Pie: A Culinary Journey

Key lime pie, an iconic American dessert, traces its roots to the sun-kissed shores of the Florida Keys. It emerged as a staple in the region, where the abundant supply of key limes, smaller and more aromatic than regular limes, played a pivotal role. Over the years, this delectable treat has gained widespread popularity, becoming a beloved favorite across the nation.

Nutritional Value: A Balanced Indulgence

While key lime pie offers a gratifying taste experience, it's essential to consider its nutritional value. A single slice typically contains around 440 calories, with a macronutrient profile consisting of 8.4 grams of protein, 22 grams of fat, and 54 grams of carbohydrates. The pie provides a negligible amount of fiber (0.5 grams) but a significant quantity of sugar (42 grams). It's crucial to enjoy this dessert in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Recipe: Crafting Your Own Slice of Perfection

Creating a homemade key lime pie is a rewarding culinary adventure. Here's a foolproof recipe to guide you:

Ingredients:

  • For the Crust:
    • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
    • 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
  • For the Filling:
    • 3/4 cup key lime juice (from about 12 key limes)
    • 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
    • 4 large egg yolks
    • 1 tablespoon grated key lime zest
  • For the Meringue:
    • 4 large egg whites
    • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare the crust by combining the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a medium bowl. Press the mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie plate.
  3. Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes until golden brown. Let cool completely.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together the key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and key lime zest until smooth.
  5. Pour the filling into the cooled pie crust and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until set.
  6. To make the meringue, beat the egg whites and granulated sugar in a clean bowl until stiff peaks form.
  7. Spread the meringue over the pie and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown.
  8. Let the pie cool completely before serving.

Enjoy the Sweet and Tart Symphony

Key lime pie stands as a culinary masterpiece, offering a harmonious blend of sweet and tart flavors. Its velvety smooth filling, complemented by the crunchy graham cracker crust, creates an unforgettable taste sensation. Whether savored as a special occasion dessert or enjoyed as a casual treat, key lime pie promises to tantalize your taste buds and evoke pure delight.

How many calories are in Key Lime Pie?

Each 1 slice of Key Lime Pie contains 440 calories.

Key Lime Pie Nutritional Information

Nutrient Amount per 1 slice (143g)
Calories 440 Calories
Protein 8.4g
Fat 22g
Saturated Fat 11g
Cholesterol 0.146mg
Carbohydrates 54g
Dietary Fiber 0.5g
Sugar 42g
Sodium 0.206mg
Potassium 0.3268mg
Calcium 0.225mg
Iron 0.001mg