Copycat Publix Key Lime Pie Recipe

“For anyone who has had a slice of Copycat Publix Key Lime Pie, they could testify that this stuff is addictive. Creamy, tangy, definitely not too sweet, and that buttery graham cracker crust? Total perfection. I make this pie at home because it’s exactly like the real thing without going through a lot more effort. Honestly, if I want something impressive but not too much work, this comes to mind as a result.

What is Copycat Publix Key Lime Pie All About?

This is the Copycat Publix Key Lime Pie, the homemade version of the famous pie sold at Publix grocery stores all across the southern United States. Some of the many highlights include:

• Bright key lime flavor
• ‘ The silky and creamy consistency, and ‘ The crunchy graham cracker crust.
• Whipped cream topping.

It is sweet, tart, and rich without feeling heavy. No fancy ingredients or baking skills are required; just a few simple steps and some chill time will do the trick.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full crackers)
• ¼ cup sugar
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 4 large egg yolks
• ½ cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
• 1 tbsp lime zest (optional for extra zing)

For the Topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

How to Make Copycat Publix Key Lime Pie

1. Prepare the crust.

• Now, preheat the oven to about 350 degrees Fahrenheit (1750 degrees Celsius).
• Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
• Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish, covering the base and sides.
• Bake for 8 minutes and cool.

2. Make the Filling

• In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
• Combine the lime juice and zest and mix thoroughly.
• Pour the mixture into the cool crust.

3. Bake the Pie

• Bake for exactly 15 minutes.
• Cool for 30 minutes at room temperature.
• Place the pie in the refrigerator for 4 hours, or ideally overnight for the best result.

4. Make the Topping

• Whisk the cream until soft peaks form. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla.
• Spread or pipe onto chilled pie before serving.

Storage Tips

• Fridge: Leftover pie can be covered and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: The pie can be frozen without the whipped cream for 1 month. Wrap tightly with plastic and foil.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with lime slices or zest on top
• Serve with fresh berries for a pop of color
• Chill your plates for an extra cool treat

Pro Tips and Variations

• No key limes? Use regular limes. It still tastes great.
• Sweeter pie? Stir in an additional tablespoon of sugar into the filling.
• A little crunch won’t hurt your crust, right? Bake it 2–3 minutes longer.
• Gluten-free? Use GF graham crackers for the crust.

FAQs

Can I use bottled key lime juice?

Yes! Nellie & Joe’s is a great brand and works just fine.

Is it very tart?

It’s tart, but balanced by the sweetened milk and crust. Not overpowering.

Is it possible to make it dairy-free?

Using coconut-based milk for the condensed milk and a vegan whipped topping will help keep your pie dairy-free.

What if I don’t have a mixer to make the whipped cream?

You could always use store-bought whipped cream or just whip it by hand with a whisk (but that takes longer).

Try This Copycat Publix Key Lime Pie Today!

Seriously, this Copycat Publix Key Lime Pie is a total winner. It’s easy, fresh, and sweetly tangy! Once you try it, there will be no stopping you from coming back for more. Just like I did. Let me know how it goes!