If you’re looking for a dessert that’s equal parts refreshing and indulgent, this Chin Chin Lime Pie is your new best friend. It’s got that perfect balance of sweet, tart, and creamy, with a crunchy crust that gives every bite a delightful contrast. Trust me, one slice and you’ll be hooked – this pie is an instant classic!
Why You’ll Love Chin Chin Lime Pie
This pie isn’t just a treat for your taste buds; it’s the kind of dessert that brings a smile to everyone’s face. It’s ideal for any occasion, from a weekend family dinner to a fancy dinner party. Here’s why you’ll fall for it:
Versatile: Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply satisfy a sweet craving, this pie fits the bill. It’s both fancy enough for special occasions and casual enough for everyday indulgence.
Budget-Friendly: You don’t need a long list of expensive ingredients to make this pie. With just a few key items, you can create a dessert that feels like a million bucks.
Quick and Easy: You don’t need to be a baking expert to make this pie. The steps are simple, and the ingredients are easy to work with. Before you know it, you’ll have a pie that’s ready to impress.
Customizable: Love extra lime? Add more zest or juice. Want to try a different flavor twist? Go ahead and make it your own. This recipe is easy to adapt to your tastes.
Crowd-Pleasing: The combination of tangy lime and creamy filling always hits the spot. Kids and adults alike can’t resist a slice of this zesty pie. It’s a guaranteed winner every time.
Ingredients
Here’s the magic behind this Chin Chin Lime Pie. You don’t need to hunt down rare ingredients – it’s all about the perfect balance of simple flavors:
Crust:
- Crushed graham crackers: These give the crust a buttery, sweet crunch.
- Melted butter: The binding agent that holds everything together.
- Sugar: To add just a hint of sweetness to the crust.
Filling:
- Sweetened condensed milk: This thick, rich ingredient makes the filling creamy and decadent.
- Fresh lime juice: Tangy and fresh, this gives the pie its signature zest.
- Lime zest: Adds even more lime flavor and a lovely fragrance.
- Egg yolks: They help thicken the filling and give it that smooth, velvety texture.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking and gives your pie the perfect texture.
Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture sticks together. Press the mixture into a pie dish, creating an even layer along the bottom and up the sides. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes or until it’s golden brown. Let it cool completely.
Make the Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, lime zest, and egg yolks. Mix until smooth and well combined. This will be your creamy, tangy filling.
Assemble the Pie: Pour the lime filling into the cooled crust. Spread it out evenly and smooth the top. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is just set with a slight jiggle in the center.
Finishing Touches: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool at room temperature. Afterward, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or until completely chilled and set.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve chilled, and watch as everyone digs in for a second (or third) slice!
Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 350 (approx.)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes (plus chilling time)
How to Serve Chin Chin Lime Pie
This pie pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of lime zest on top for that extra citrus punch. You could also serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad or some light, crisp cookies to complement its creamy texture. Whether you enjoy it on its own or with a side, this pie is always a crowd-pleaser!
Additional Tips
- If you like a more intense lime flavor, feel free to add an extra tablespoon of lime zest.
- For a twist, you can top the pie with toasted coconut or crushed nuts for added texture.
- Make sure to let the pie chill completely in the fridge before serving; this helps the filling set perfectly.
FAQ’s
- Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
Absolutely! A store-bought crust will work just fine if you’re short on time. - Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! This pie actually gets better the longer it sits. Prepare it the day before, and let it chill overnight. - Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is ideal, but bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to taste. - How long should I bake the pie?
Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. - Can I freeze Chin Chin Lime Pie?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just cover it well and store it in the freezer for up to a month. Let it thaw in the fridge before serving. - What if my filling doesn’t set properly?
If the filling is too runny, it might need a bit more time to cool and set. If it’s still not thickening, try adding an extra egg yolk next time. - Can I make the crust with something other than graham crackers?
Yes! You can use crushed cookies like digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers if you prefer a different flavor for the crust. - How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a dairy-free version and use a dairy-free butter substitute for the crust. - What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in the fridge, covered, for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices. - Can I add more toppings to this pie?
Yes! You can top it with whipped cream, fresh berries, or even a drizzle of caramel for an extra special touch.
Conclusion
Chin Chin Lime Pie is a dessert that’s sure to steal the spotlight at any gathering. Its creamy filling, refreshing lime flavor, and crisp crust make it irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a celebration or just because, this pie is bound to become a new favorite in your dessert rotation. Happy baking!
Print
Chin Chin Lime Pie
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing twist on the classic lime pie, combining a crispy Chin Chin crust with a creamy lime filling.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups Chin Chin crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup lime juice
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine the Chin Chin crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a pie pan to form the crust.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- In another bowl, whisk together the lime juice, lime zest, sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and eggs until smooth.
- Pour the lime mixture into the cooled crust.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
- Allow the pie to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Optional: Garnish with whipped cream or lime slices before serving.
Notes
- For a tangier flavor, increase the amount of lime juice and zest.
- Ensure the pie is fully chilled before serving for best texture.
- You can substitute the Chin Chin crust with a traditional graham cracker crust if preferred.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 80mg