Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a delightful twist on a classic dessert! This Key Lime Margarita Pie with a Pretzel Crust is not just any pie; it’s a refreshing explosion of zesty lime flavor paired with the irresistible crunch of a sweet and salty pretzel crust. Perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy night in, this dessert will have your friends and family begging for seconds. In just 25 minutes of prep and cook time, you can whip up a stunning pie that’s sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delicious recipe that combines the best of both worlds: a creamy, tangy filling and a unique crust that’s simply unforgettable!
Ingredients
- 2 cups crushed pretzels
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice
- 3 large egg yolks
- Whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the center of the oven.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and sugar. Mix thoroughly until the mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when pressed.
- Transfer the pretzel mixture into a 9-inch pie dish, using the back of a spoon or measuring cup to press the crust firmly and evenly across the bottom and up the sides of the dish.
- Bake the pretzel crust for 10 minutes until lightly golden and set. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and egg yolks until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Pour the lime filling into the cooled pretzel crust, spreading evenly with a spatula.
- Bake the pie for 15-18 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to allow the pie to set fully.
- Before serving, top with freshly whipped cream and optional lime zest or pretzel crumbs for garnish.
- Slice and serve chilled, storing any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Crush the Pretzels: For the perfect crust, make sure your pretzels are crushed finely. A food processor works wonders, but if you don’t have one, placing them in a zip-top bag and crushing them with a rolling pin will do the trick!
- Butter Temperature: Ensure your melted butter is not too hot when mixing it with the crushed pretzels, as it could cause the sugar to dissolve too quickly, affecting the crust's texture.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on the crust while it’s baking. You want it to be lightly golden but not too dark, as it will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
- Chill Time: For the best flavor and texture, allow the pie to chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight. This will help the filling set properly and enhance the lime flavor.
- Whipped Cream: For a light and airy topping, whip your cream just until soft peaks form. You can add a bit of powdered sugar or lime zest for an extra kick!
- Serving Suggestions: Garnish each slice with a sprinkle of lime zest or some crushed pretzel crumbs for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
- Storage: If you have leftovers (though unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep them fresh.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 349kcal
Carbohydrates: 41g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 73mg
