Key Lime Pie Recipe (UK Adaptation)

The vibrant, tangy taste of Key lime pie is a true delight. While originating in Florida, this refreshing dessert can be easily adapted for UK kitchens and ingredients. This recipe provides a delicious, authentic Key lime pie experience, taking into account the slight differences in readily available ingredients.

Understanding the UK Ingredient Adaptations

Making a truly great Key lime pie in the UK requires a few tweaks. American Key limes are often less readily available than their Persian lime counterparts. While Persian limes are slightly less acidic, we can compensate by adjusting the amount of lime juice and adding a touch of extra sweetness. This recipe accounts for that subtle difference, ensuring a perfectly balanced pie. We'll also discuss suitable biscuit alternatives for the base.

Ingredients for the Key Lime Pie Base

• 175g digestive biscuits (or similar): Digestive biscuits provide a perfect base, offering a crumbly texture and subtle sweetness. If you prefer a different biscuit, ensure it's a relatively plain variety to avoid overpowering the lime flavour. Graham crackers are not as readily available in the UK, but rich tea biscuits could be a substitute.
• 75g unsalted butter, melted: Provides the binding agent for the biscuit base. Ensure it's completely melted for even distribution.

Ingredients for the Key Lime Filling

• 3 large eggs, at room temperature: Room temperature eggs emulsify better, creating a smoother filling.
• 397g can sweetened condensed milk: This is easily accessible in UK supermarkets.
• 150ml Key lime juice (or more, to taste): Use freshly squeezed juice for the best flavour. Adjust the amount depending on the acidity of your limes. If using Persian limes, you may need to add a little more than 150ml.
• Zest of 2 Key limes (or 3 Persian limes): Adds extra aroma and flavour to the filling.
• Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavour.

Instructions: Making the Key Lime Pie

Step 1: Preparing the Base

1. Crush the biscuits: Place biscuits in a strong food bag and crush using a rolling pin until finely crumbed. Alternatively, use a food processor for a quicker method.
2. Combine with butter: Add the melted butter to the biscuit crumbs and mix thoroughly until evenly moistened.
3. Press into tin: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 23cm springform tin. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to create an even layer.
4. Chill: Refrigerate the base for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 2: Creating the Filling

1. Whisk the eggs: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs lightly.
2. Add condensed milk: Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk while whisking constantly to ensure a smooth mixture.
3. Incorporate lime juice and zest: Add the lime juice and zest, whisking continuously until well combined. Add a pinch of salt.
4. Strain (optional): For a super-smooth filling, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps or bits of zest. This step isn’t essential but improves the texture.

Step 3: Baking and Chilling

1. Pour into base: Pour the lime filling over the chilled biscuit base and spread evenly.
2. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 160°C (140°C fan/ Gas Mark 3) for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are just set. The centre may still appear slightly wobbly – this is normal. Do not overbake.
3. Cool: Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to fully set.

Step 4: Serving your Key Lime Pie

Once chilled, carefully remove the pie from the springform tin. Garnish with whipped cream (optional) and a lime wedge. Serve and enjoy your homemade Key Lime Pie!

Tips for Key Lime Pie Success

• Fresh limes are key: Use the freshest Key limes (or Persian limes) you can find for the best flavour.
• Don't overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry and cracked filling.
• Chill thoroughly: Allow ample time for the pie to chill completely in the refrigerator for optimal setting and flavour development.
• Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different toppings such as whipped cream, meringue, or even fresh berries.

This adapted recipe ensures a delicious Key lime pie experience, perfectly suited to UK ingredients and kitchen practices. Enjoy!