1-Getting started with this simple key lime pie recipe is as easy as preheating your oven, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious key lime pie in no time. Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (177°C) to ensure even baking. This key lime pie uses a unique graham cracker macadamia nut crust that adds a nutty crunch to balance the creamy filling. For more ideas on crusts, check out our almond croissant recipe for similar baking techniques that enhance dessert textures.

2-First, pulse the 11 full-sheet graham crackers and 1/2 cup of salted roasted macadamia nuts in a food processor until they form coarse crumbs. Stir in 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, then mix in 5 tablespoons of unsalted melted butter until everything is well combined. Press this mixture evenly into an ungreased 9-inch pie dish, making sure it’s firm but not packed too hard to avoid a tough crust.

3-Pre-bake the crust for 8 minutes, then prepare the filling by whisking together 28 ounces of full-fat sweetened condensed milk, 1 cup of key lime juice, 4 large egg yolks, and 1 teaspoon of key lime zest in a bowl until smooth. Pour the filling into the warm crust and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly. Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving, and add optional garnishes like lime zest or whipped cream for extra flair.