Key Lime Crack

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Delicious Key Lime Crack dessert with tangy lime flavors and crispy texture
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Key Lime Crack: The Dessert You Didn’t Know You Needed

When looking for a dessert that perfectly balances sweet and tart, Key Lime Crack takes the cake—literally! This delightful treat captures all the zingy, citrus flavors of key limes, enveloped in a crumbly, buttery crust, and topped with fluffy whipped cream. Each bite is a luscious experience, a perfect harmony of texture and flavor that’s bound to leave you craving more. The moment you cut into this dessert, the aroma of fresh lime fills the air, enticing your senses and leaving you eager to dive in.

Imagine serving this dessert at a summer BBQ or a family gathering, where the warmth of the sun complements the refreshing taste of key lime. It’s an ideal choice for brightening up cozy evenings or celebrating special moments, making it a versatile treat that everyone will adore.

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Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including chilling)
  • Servings: 9
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 230
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbs: 35g
  • Fat: 10g

Why Make This Recipe

Key Lime Crack is the epitome of ease without sacrificing taste. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delightful dessert in no time. The aroma of baking wafts through your kitchen, promising a delicious treat waiting to be enjoyed. Best served chilled on a warm day or as a refreshing finale to a cozy dinner, this dessert will impress your family and friends.

How to Make Key Lime Crack

Ingredients

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup key lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon grated lime zest
  • 1 cup whipped cream (for topping)
  • Lime slices or zest for garnish

Optional Ingredients and Substitutions

  • Consider adding coconut flakes for an island twist!
  • Use almond flour for a gluten-free crust.

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
  3. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of an ungreased 9-inch square baking dish.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest.
  5. Pour this mixture over the crust in the baking dish.
  6. Bake for 15 minutes and then remove from the oven to cool.
  7. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
  8. Before serving, top with whipped cream and garnish with lime slices or zest. Enjoy your Key Lime Crack!

Baking Tips

  • To avoid a crumbly crust, ensure you pack the graham cracker mixture tightly.
  • Don’t overmix the lime filling; gently whisk until just combined to keep your Key Lime Crack light and airy.
  • Test doneness by checking that the filling is set and no longer jiggly in the center.

How to Serve

Serve this Key Lime Crack chilled, with a generous dollop of whipped cream on top. It pairs well with a refreshing iced tea or a chilled glass of lemonade—a perfect contrast to its tartness! You can also serve it with a scoop of coconut gelato for extra indulgence.

How to Store

  • Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to 3 days at room temperature in a cool, dry place.
  • Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 5 days in the fridge. Simply cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
  • Freezer: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.

Expert Tips

  • For an extra burst of flavor, experiment with different citrus juices; blood orange or lemon can create a delightful twist!
  • Make sure to use freshly squeezed key lime juice for the best taste; it truly makes a difference.
  • If you prefer a firmer texture, let it chill overnight rather than for just 2 hours.

Delicious Variations

  • Vegan Version: Use coconut cream instead of sweetened condensed milk and a vegan alternative for the crust.
  • Chocolate Swirl: Add a layer of melted dark chocolate before putting on the whipped cream for a decadent treat.
  • Cinnamon Swirl: Sprinkle in some cinnamon with the crust to add a warm flavor twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other fruits?
Absolutely! While key limes are traditional, you can use lemon, lime, or even berries for a unique take on this dessert.

Why is it dry/dense?
If your Key Lime Crack turns out dry, it may have been overbaked. Keep an eye on it during baking, and remove it when the filling is just set.

What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover Key Lime Crack can be crumbled over yogurt or mixed into smoothies for a refreshing twist.

Can I use frozen ingredients?
Yes! You can substitute frozen key lime juice for fresh, just ensure it’s fully thawed and measured correctly.

Conclusion

Key Lime Crack is a showstopper in its simplicity and flavor—a delightful treat that beckons you back for more. This dessert is sure to create lasting memories with your loved ones, whether it’s for a summertime gathering or a cozy night in. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you! We’d love to hear how your Key Lime Crack turns out, so share your thoughts or variations in the comments below!

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Key Lime Crack

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Description

A delightful dessert that balances sweet and tart flavors, featuring a buttery crust and fluffy whipped cream.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup key lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon grated lime zest
  • 1 cup whipped cream (for topping)
  • Lime slices or zest for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
  3. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of an ungreased 9-inch square baking dish.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest.
  5. Pour this mixture over the crust in the baking dish.
  6. Bake for 15 minutes and then remove from the oven to cool.
  7. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
  8. Before serving, top with whipped cream and garnish with lime slices or zest. Enjoy your Key Lime Crack!

Notes

To avoid a crumbly crust, pack the graham cracker mixture tightly. Use freshly squeezed key lime juice for the best flavor.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 230
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 100mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

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