Key Lime Yogurt Pie

Name: Key Lime Yogurt Pie
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 sheets graham crackers; 3 tablespoons cold whipped butter; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1-1/2 teaspoons gelatin; 1/2 cup key lime juice; 6 ounces low-fat cream cheese; 1 cup plain yogurt (0% fat); 1/2 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon grated lime zest

Published: June 22, 2025

by Lucille

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor: The balance of sweet and tart makes every bite a delight.
Light and Creamy: Combining yogurt with cream cheese creates a refreshing yet rich filling.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and steps, this pie comes together quickly.
Versatile Dessert: Perfect for summer parties, holidays, or just because!
Garnish Options: Top with fresh key lime slices or whipped cream for an extra touch.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Key Lime Yogurt Pie, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help ensure your pie comes out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Food processor
Mixing bowls
Hand mixer
8-inch pie dish
Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

Food processor: Helps quickly crush graham crackers for the crust.
Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
Hand mixer: Ensures the cream cheese and yogurt blend smoothly.
8-inch pie dish: Perfect size for even baking and serving.

Ingredients

For the Crust

6 sheets graham crackers (3.5 oz total)
3 tbsp cold whipped butter
2 tablespoons sugar

For the Filling

1-1/2 teaspoons gelatin
1/2 cup key lime juice (fresh squeezed or bottled)
6 ounces 1/3 less fat cream cheese
1 cup 0% fat Stonyfield plain yogurt
1/2 cup sugar
1 tablespoon grated lime zest

For Garnish

Key lime slices (optional for garnish)
Whipped cream (optional for garnish)

How to Make Key Lime Yogurt Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

Place graham crackers, butter, and sugar into a food processor and pulse until combined.
Add 1 tablespoon of water and pulse until it reaches a coarse meal texture.
Press the mixture into an 8-inch pie dish evenly across the bottom and up the sides.
Refrigerate the crust for 30 minutes to prevent crumbling when served.
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bake until edges are golden, about 8 to 10 minutes.
Let the crust cool on a wire rack before filling.

Step 2: Make the Key Lime Filling

In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of lime juice with gelatin; stir well.
Warm the remaining lime juice in the microwave for about 30 to 45 seconds, then mix it quickly with the gelatin to dissolve completely.
In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to blend together cream cheese, yogurt, sugar, and lime zest. Mix until smooth.
Gradually add in the key lime juice mixture while mixing until fully incorporated.
Pour this filling into your cooled graham cracker crust.

Step 3: Chill and Serve

Chill your Key Lime Yogurt Pie thoroughly in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.
Optionally garnish with fresh key lime slices and whipped cream before slicing.

Enjoy each slice of this delightful Key Lime Yogurt Pie—it’s sure to become a favorite!

How to Serve Key Lime Yogurt Pie

Serving your Key Lime Yogurt Pie can elevate the experience for you and your guests. Here are some delightful ways to present this refreshing dessert.

Classic Presentation

Chilled Slices: Serve the pie chilled, sliced into wedges, allowing its creamy filling to shine.
Garnished with Lime: Add fresh key lime slices on top for a burst of color and flavor.

Individual Servings

Mini Tarts: Create mini versions in muffin tins for individual servings that are easy to grab.
Dessert Cups: Layer pie filling in clear cups with graham cracker crumbs for a fun twist.

Accompaniments

Whipped Cream: Offer a dollop of whipped cream on top for added richness.
Fresh Berries: Serve alongside fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a fruity contrast.

How to Perfect Key Lime Yogurt Pie

Perfecting your Key Lime Yogurt Pie can take it from great to extraordinary. Follow these tips for the best results.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh key lime juice and zest to enhance the flavor.
Chill Thoroughly: Allow the pie to chill for at least an hour before serving; it helps set the filling properly.
Be Precise with Gelatin: Ensure you dissolve the gelatin fully in warm lime juice; this step is crucial for texture.
Don’t Skip the Crust Prep: Refrigerate your crust before baking to prevent crumbling when serving.
Experiment with Sweetness: Adjust sugar levels according to your preference; taste as you go!
Add Flavor Variations: Try adding coconut or even a hint of mint for a unique spin on the classic recipe.

Best Side Dishes for Key Lime Yogurt Pie

Pairing side dishes with your Key Lime Yogurt Pie can complement its flavors beautifully. Here are some excellent options to consider.

Coconut Macaroons: Chewy and sweet, these pair well with the tartness of the pie.
Fruit Salad: A fresh mix of seasonal fruits adds color and balances the dessert’s richness.
Lemon Sorbet: The tangy sorbet provides a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.
Honeydew Melon Slices: Serve chilled melon slices; their sweetness contrasts nicely with key lime.
Pineapple Skewers: Grilled or fresh pineapple skewers offer a tropical flair that matches perfectly.
Minted Peas Salad: This light salad adds an unexpected twist that complements the citrus notes of the pie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Key Lime Yogurt Pie can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

Skipping the chilling time: Not allowing the pie to chill for at least an hour can lead to a runny filling. Always refrigerate it thoroughly before serving.
Overmixing the filling: Mixing too much can incorporate excess air, resulting in a less creamy texture. Mix until just combined for the best results.
Using unchilled ingredients: If your cream cheese and yogurt are not cold, they may not blend well. Ensure all ingredients are chilled before mixing.
Not measuring accurately: Inaccurate measurements can throw off the balance of flavors. Use precise measuring tools for the best outcome.
Ignoring crust thickness: A crust that’s too thick or thin can affect texture and taste. Aim for an even thickness of about 1/8 inch.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
The pie will last up to 3-4 days while maintaining its freshness.

Freezing Key Lime Yogurt Pie

Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container.
It can be frozen for up to 2 months, but best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating Key Lime Yogurt Pie

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and heat for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent browning.
Microwave: Heat individual slices on low power for about 20-30 seconds until slightly warm.
Stovetop: This method is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the pie.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Key Lime Yogurt Pie?

Key Lime Yogurt Pie is a lighter dessert that combines key lime flavor with creamy yogurt and cream cheese in a delicious graham cracker crust.

How long does it take to make Key Lime Yogurt Pie?

The total time includes 30 minutes of prep and about 15 minutes of cooking. Don’t forget the chilling time of at least one hour!

Can I use regular yogurt instead of low-fat?

Yes, you can use regular yogurt if you prefer a creamier texture, but this will increase the calorie count.

How do I make my Key Lime Yogurt Pie sweeter?

To enhance sweetness, simply increase the sugar amount in the filling by one or two tablespoons according to your taste preference.

Can I add toppings to my Key Lime Yogurt Pie?

Absolutely! Whipped cream and fresh lime slices make excellent garnishes that complement the flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Key Lime Yogurt Pie is not only refreshing but also versatile. Its balance of sweetness and tartness makes it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with different toppings or adjust sweetness levels according to your preferences. Don’t hesitate—try making this delightful pie today!