Delia Smith’s Key Lime Pie Recipe

Delia Smith’s Key Lime Pie is a classic dessert that hails from the sunny shores of the Florida Keys in the United States, but Delia Smith, a beloved British TV chef and cookery writer, has adapted the recipe for a broader audience. Key Lime Pie is known for its refreshing tartness, creamy texture, and beautiful balance of sweet and sour flavors. Delia’s version of this dessert has become a go-to recipe for those who want to recreate the sweet, tangy indulgence at home, combining simplicity with flavor in a way only Delia can achieve.

This pie is typically made with a buttery, biscuit-like crust and a filling of sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and key lime juice. The unique tartness of the key limes-small, aromatic limes with a stronger, more fragrant citrus punch than regular limes-is key to the flavor profile, although Delia’s recipe may allow for some flexibility with ingredients depending on availability. The pie is finished off with a light, fluffy topping of whipped cream, making it a perfect dessert for warm weather, though it’s loved year-round.

Delia Smith’s Key Lime Pie Recipe

Ingredients Needed

For Delia Smith’s Key Lime Pie, the following ingredients are typically required:

For The Crust

• Digestive biscuits (or graham crackers if you’re looking for a more authentic American crust) – these are crushed to form the base of the pie.
• Butter – melted, to bind the crushed biscuits together.
• Sugar – adds a touch of sweetness to the crust.

For The Filling

• Sweetened condensed milk – the key ingredient that gives the filling its creamy, sweet consistency.
• Egg yolks – these add richness and help set the filling.
• Key lime juice – freshly squeezed, if possible, to provide that signature tart, aromatic flavor. (Regular limes can be substituted if key limes are not available.)
• Lime zest – optional, but it adds a burst of citrus fragrance to the filling.

For The Topping

• Double cream – whipped to soft peaks to provide a creamy contrast to the sharpness of the lime filling.
• Powdered sugar – lightly sweetens the whipped cream.

Equipment Needed

To make Delia Smith’s Key Lime Pie, you will need the following kitchen equipment:

• A food processor or a rolling pin and a plastic bag – to crush the biscuits into fine crumbs for the crust.
• A pie dish (ideally 9 inches in diameter) – to shape and bake the pie.
• A mixing bowl – for preparing the filling and combining ingredients.
• A whisk or electric mixer – for whipping the cream to soft peaks.
• A citrus juicer – to easily extract juice from limes.
• A spoon or spatula – for spreading the filling and topping smoothly.
• An oven – for baking the crust.

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Delia Smith’s Key Lime Pie

1. Prepare The Crust

   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • In a food processor, crush the digestive biscuits into fine crumbs (alternatively, place them in a plastic bag and bash them with a rolling pin).
   • Melt the butter and mix it with the biscuit crumbs and sugar until well combined.
   • Press the mixture firmly into the base of a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring an even layer. Bake for about 10 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool.

2. Make The Filling

   • In a bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and egg yolks.
   • Stir in the lime juice and lime zest, if using, and mix until everything is well combined.
   • Pour the filling into the cooled biscuit crust and smooth the surface with a spatula.
   • Bake for 15 minutes at 180°C (350°F) until the filling is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.

3. Prepare The Topping

   • Whip the double cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
   • Once the pie has cooled completely, spread the whipped cream evenly on top of the lime filling, covering it entirely.

4. Chill The Pie

   • Refrigerate the pie for at least 3 hours or overnight. This helps the filling set and the flavors to meld.

5. Serve

   • Once chilled, slice the pie into wedges and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

• Use Fresh Key Limes: If possible, opt for fresh key limes rather than bottled lime juice. The fragrance and tartness of fresh limes make a huge difference in the flavor.
• Avoid Over-Baking the Filling: The filling should be just set when you take it out of the oven. If overbaked, it can become too firm, losing its signature creamy texture.
• Crust Variation: While digestive biscuits are classic, you can experiment with other biscuits or even shortbread for a slightly different flavor.
• Topping Tip: For extra stability, you can lightly fold some sour cream into the whipped cream before topping the pie for a tangy twist. Alternatively, a light sprinkle of lime zest on top of the whipped cream adds visual appeal and an extra citrus punch.
• Make Ahead: This pie is excellent for making ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had more time to meld.

Delia Smith’s Key Lime Pie is a beautifully balanced dessert that combines tart lime, creamy sweetness, and a buttery, crunchy crust. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just beginning to experiment in the kitchen, this recipe is approachable, flexible, and, above all, delicious.

The lightness of the filling paired with the richness of the whipped cream topping creates a refreshing treat perfect for summer days, but it’s delightful year-round. By following the straightforward steps and using the tips for success, you’ll create a perfect Key Lime Pie that’s sure to impress friends and family alike.

Simple Twists On Delia Smith’s Key Lime Pie Recipe

Delia Smith’s Key Lime Pie recipe is a classic for good reason-its perfect balance of tartness from the limes and the rich, creamy filling on a buttery biscuit base is simply irresistible.

But why not have a bit of fun with it and add your own personal twist?

Here are some ideas that can elevate or change the flavor profile of this already fantastic dessert.

1. Add Coconut To The Crust

A subtle twist you can add is mixing desiccated coconut into the biscuit base. It adds an additional depth of flavor that complements the zesty lime and gives it a tropical flair.

Simply mix about ½ cup of coconut with the crushed biscuits before adding the melted butter to form the crust. This will make for a delightful combination of crunch and richness.

2. Infuse The Filling With Ginger

Another unique twist could be to infuse the filling with a hint of ginger. Ginger and lime work wonderfully together, so grate a small amount of fresh ginger and add it to the mixture of sweetened condensed milk and lime juice. Alternatively, a teaspoon of ground ginger can also add a warm, spicy undertone to the otherwise tangy filling.

3. Swap Lime For Other Citrus

While the traditional Key Lime Pie uses Key limes (which are smaller and more tart than regular limes), you could easily swap them out for other citrus fruits if you can’t find them. Regular limes, lemons, or even oranges could provide a different take on the classic. A lemon-lime combo could deliver a perfect balance of tangy and sweet, or try a more adventurous grapefruit base for a subtle bitterness to contrast with the sweetness of the filling.

4. Add A Layer Of Berries

If you love fruit, you could top your Key Lime Pie with a fresh berry compote or scatter some berries on top of the whipped cream. Blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries would make a vibrant addition that not only enhances the flavor but also gives the pie an eye-catching appearance. The slight tartness of the berries contrasts beautifully with the creamy lime filling.

5. Chill And Serve With A Meringue Topping

For a show-stopping effect, skip the whipped cream and make a light, pillowy meringue topping instead. A perfectly browned meringue layer atop the chilled Key Lime Pie is a delicious variation that offers a delicate sweetness that balances out the tartness of the lime. Plus, it makes for an elegant presentation!

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Key Lime Pie is a delicious dessert, but if you have leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), knowing how to store it will help you enjoy the pie for a little longer.

1. Refrigerate For Freshness

The best way to store Key Lime Pie is to keep it in the refrigerator. Its creamy filling is sensitive to temperature changes and can lose its texture if not kept cold.

After serving, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods in the fridge. If you have individual slices, placing them in an airtight container can also help maintain the freshness.

2. Freezing Leftover Pie

If you have more leftovers than you can eat within a few days, Key Lime Pie can be frozen for up to 3 months. However, before freezing, it’s best to slice the pie and place each slice on a baking sheet.

Freeze the slices individually for a few hours, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or Ziploc bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw the pie slices in the fridge for several hours or overnight for the best results. Keep in mind that freezing may affect the texture slightly, so the crust might not be as crisp as when it was freshly made.

What To Eat With Delia Smith’s Key Lime Pie?

While Key Lime Pie is a perfect dessert on its own, there are some great options for pairing it with other dishes that will complement its bold, zesty flavor.

1. Light Summer Salads

Pairing Key Lime Pie with a light, refreshing salad can create a perfect balance between rich and refreshing flavors. A simple mixed green salad with citrus dressing or even a tangy avocado and tomato salad can work wonders. The fresh vegetables help to cleanse your palate, making each bite of pie even more indulgent.

2. Grilled Seafood

The bright, citrusy taste of Key Lime Pie pairs wonderfully with seafood. Whether it’s grilled shrimp, fish tacos, or even lobster, the lightness of the seafood complements the dessert without overwhelming the taste buds. The subtle sweetness of grilled seafood pairs particularly well with the tart lime flavor of the pie.

3. A Cup Of Freshly Brewed Tea Or Coffee

If you’re looking for a drink to pair with your slice of pie, consider serving it with a fresh cup of iced tea or coffee. A lightly brewed green tea or even a hint of chamomile can bring out the delicate flavors in the pie without overshadowing it. For those who prefer coffee, a creamy cappuccino or an espresso works wonderfully with the pie’s sweetness.

4. Chilled Fruit Cocktails

For a more festive occasion, try pairing your Key Lime Pie with a tropical fruit cocktail, such as a piña colada or a mojito. The combination of lime in the drink and pie creates a perfect match, and the drink’s sweetness and depth of flavor make it an indulgent pairing that will transport you to a tropical paradise.

Conclusion

Delia Smith’s Key Lime Pie is a delicious classic that stands out for its combination of tangy lime and creamy filling. By adding simple twists like coconut in the crust, infusing ginger into the filling, or topping the pie with fresh berries, you can easily create a unique version of this dessert that suits your personal tastes. Additionally, proper storage ensures that you can savor leftovers without compromising on flavor, and pairing the pie with light salads or tropical drinks will enhance the overall dining experience.

Whether you enjoy it on its own or served alongside seafood, salads, or refreshing beverages, Key Lime Pie is a dessert that always brings sunshine to the table.

FAQs

What Makes Delia Smith’s Key Lime Pie Different From Other Recipes?

Delia Smith’s Key Lime Pie stands out due to its perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. She uses condensed milk, which creates a smooth and creamy texture, paired with the freshness of lime juice.

The pie has a unique combination of a crunchy biscuit base and a rich, velvety filling. Her recipe also includes a hint of vanilla, which enhances the overall flavor profile, making it a more indulgent version of this classic dessert.

Can I Use Regular Limes Instead Of Key Limes For Delia Smith’s Key Lime Pie?

While Delia Smith’s recipe traditionally calls for key limes, you can substitute regular limes if key limes are not available. Key limes are smaller and more aromatic than regular limes, but the substitution will still result in a delicious pie.

If using regular limes, be sure to use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor. The result may be slightly less tangy, but it will still be a refreshing treat.

How Long Should I Chill Delia Smith’s Key Lime Pie Before Serving?

Delia Smith recommends chilling the Key Lime Pie for at least 4 hours, although overnight chilling yields the best results. This allows the filling to set properly and the flavors to meld.

For an even firmer texture, you can chill the pie for up to 8 hours. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap to prevent any surface exposure to air, ensuring it remains fresh and free from any unwanted odors in the fridge.