Irish Key Lime Meringue Pie

Irish Key Lime Meringue Pie Recipe - A Classic Irish Dessert with a Twist

Region / culture: Ireland | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 18 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Irish Key Lime Meringue Pie is a delicious and tangy dessert that combines the flavors of key lime with a fluffy meringue topping. This pie is perfect for St. Patrick's Day or any time you want to enjoy a taste of Ireland.

History

The origins of Key Lime Pie can be traced back to the early 20th century in the Florida Keys, where key limes were abundant. The addition of Irish whiskey to the traditional recipe gives this pie a unique twist and adds a depth of flavor that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

1 x 9 inches pie crust, baked (use smaller pie pan or larger crust / bake shell for 25 minutes at 350°F)
3 eggs, separated (Make sure to beat the eggs before adding the remainder of the ingredients)
1 can sweetened condensed milk
0.5 cup key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
1-2 tbsp irish whiskey (optional)
a few drops of green food coloring (optional)
0.5 tsp cream of tartar
0.33 cup sugar
4-5 egg whites for higher meringue

How to prepare

Bake the pie crust and set it aside to cool.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Beat the egg yolks.
Add and stir in the sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, Irish whiskey (optional), and a few drops of food coloring (optional).
Mix everything well and pour it into the baked pie crust.
In a mixer bowl, beat the egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
Gradually beat in the sugar until stiff peaks form.
Spread the mixture on top of the pie, sealing the edge of the pie crust.
Bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden brown.
Serve the pie chilled.

Variations

For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the Irish whiskey.
You can also use lemon juice instead of lime juice for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to bake the pie crust before adding the filling to ensure a crisp and flaky base.

- When making the meringue topping, make sure to gradually add the sugar to the egg whites to achieve stiff peaks.

- For a more intense lime flavor, you can add extra lime juice or zest to the filling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pie chilled with a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra indulgent treat.

Cooking Techniques

Beating the egg whites until stiff peaks form is crucial for a light and fluffy meringue topping.

- Baking the pie at a high temperature for a short amount of time helps to brown the meringue without overcooking the filling.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use graham cracker crust instead of a traditional pie crust for a different texture.

- If you don't have cream of tartar, you can use lemon juice or white vinegar as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the pie crust and filling ahead of time and assemble the pie just before serving.

- The meringue topping is best made fresh and added just before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the pie with lime slices or zest for a decorative touch. - Serve the pie on a green platter for a festive St. Patrick's Day presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This pie pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- To reheat, place the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

250

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 35g

- Dietary Fiber: 0.5g

- Sugars: 25g

Fats

- Total Fat: 8g

- Saturated Fat: 4g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 5g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 10% DV

- Calcium: 15% DV

- Iron: 4% DV

Alergens

Contains eggs and dairy

Summary

This Irish Key Lime Meringue Pie is a decadent dessert that is high in carbohydrates and fats, but also provides a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Irish Key Lime Meringue Pie is a delightful dessert that combines the flavors of key lime with a fluffy meringue topping. This recipe is sure to impress your guests and is perfect for any special occasion. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Irish Key Lime Meringue Pie. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through an old box of recipe cards that I had collected over the years. As I shuffled through the cards, one in particular caught my eye. It was a faded yellow card with beautiful cursive handwriting that read "Irish Key Lime Meringue Pie."

I had never heard of such a pie before, and I was intrigued. The combination of Irish and Key Lime flavors sounded unique and delicious. I knew I had to give it a try. I carefully read through the ingredients and instructions, taking mental notes of each step.

The next day, I set out to gather all the necessary ingredients. I made a trip to the grocery store, picking up fresh limes, eggs, sugar, and butter. As I gathered everything I needed, I couldn't shake the feeling of excitement that bubbled up inside me. I was embarking on a culinary adventure, and I couldn't wait to see how it would turn out.

Once I returned home, I rolled up my sleeves and got to work. I began by making the crust, using a combination of crushed graham crackers and melted butter. The sweet, buttery aroma filled the kitchen as I pressed the mixture into a pie dish, creating a sturdy base for the filling.

Next, I moved on to the key lime filling. I juiced the fresh limes, their vibrant green color brightening up the countertop. The tart scent of the juice mingled with the sweet aroma of the crust, creating a tantalizing combination. I whisked the lime juice with condensed milk and egg yolks, creating a creamy and tangy mixture that promised to be the star of the pie.

As the pie baked in the oven, I turned my attention to the final component: the meringue topping. I whipped egg whites and sugar together until they formed stiff peaks, the glossy mixture holding its shape perfectly. I carefully spread the meringue over the cooled pie, creating beautiful peaks and swirls with a spatula.

Finally, the pie was complete. I marveled at the finished product, its golden crust, creamy filling, and fluffy meringue creating a stunning visual display. I couldn't wait to taste it.

As I took my first bite, I was transported to a place of pure bliss. The tangy lime filling paired perfectly with the sweet graham cracker crust, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. The meringue topping added a light and airy touch, making each bite a delight for the senses.

I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my collection. It was a testament to the power of curiosity and the joy of trying new things. I had stumbled upon a hidden gem, and I was grateful for the opportunity to bring it to life in my own kitchen.

From that day on, Irish Key Lime Meringue Pie became a favorite among my family and friends. Whenever I made it, the kitchen would fill with laughter and chatter, the sweet aroma drawing everyone in. It became a symbol of connection and love, a reminder of the joy that comes from sharing delicious food with the ones we care about.

And so, as I sit here reminiscing about that fateful day when I discovered the recipe for Irish Key Lime Meringue Pie, I can't help but smile. It was a moment of curiosity that led me on a culinary journey I will never forget, and for that, I am truly grateful.