Description
These Key Lime Pie Tartlets are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust filled with a tangy lime custard. Perfectly portioned and topped with whipped cream and a hint of lime zest, these tartlets are easy to make and ideal for a refreshing, bite-sized treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp lime zest (optional, for extra lime flavor)
Filling
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup fresh lime juice (about 4-5 limes)
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp lime zest (optional)
Topping and Garnish
- Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
- Lime wedges or additional lime zest for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking your tartlet crusts.
- Mix Crust Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted unsalted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter. For extra lime flavor, optionally add 1 tablespoon of lime zest and mix thoroughly.
- Form the Crusts: Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of mini tartlet pans or a muffin tin. Press firmly to create a compact and even base that will hold the filling well during baking.
- Bake Crusts: Place the tartlet pans in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes until the crusts turn golden and set. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool completely while you prepare the filling.
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, fresh lime juice, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. For additional lime zest flavor, optionally add ¼ teaspoon of lime zest and mix it in.
- Fill Tartlets: Pour the lime filling evenly into the cooled tartlet crusts, ensuring each tartlet is filled and leveled properly.
- Bake Tartlets: Return the filled tartlets to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The filling should be just set, still slightly jiggle in the center.
- Cool and Chill: Remove tartlets from the oven and let them cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to firm up fully.
- Assemble and Garnish: Once chilled, top each tartlet with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Garnish with lime wedges or additional lime zest for a fresh and attractive finish.
- Serve: Serve the tartlets chilled and enjoy a refreshing and zesty dessert perfect for any occasion.
Notes
- If you prefer a stronger lime flavor, add the optional lime zest to both crust and filling as instructed.
- You can use store-bought whipped cream or make homemade by whipping heavy cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla extract.
- Ensure not to overbake the filling; it should remain slightly jiggly to prevent it from cracking or becoming dry.
- The tartlets can be prepared a day ahead and kept refrigerated in an airtight container.
- Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor; bottled lime juice may affect the taste and texture.
