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Creamy No-Bake Key Lime Pie Recipe with Crunchy Pretzel Crust

no-bake key lime pie - featured image

A creamy, tangy no-bake key lime pie with a salty, crunchy pretzel crust that’s perfect for summer gatherings and easy to make without an oven.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups crushed pretzels (about 150g)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (85g)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 can (14 oz/400g) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (120g), room temperature
  • 3/4 cup fresh key lime juice (180ml)
  • Zest of 2 key limes
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: whipped cream for garnish
  • Optional: thin lime slices or zest curls for decoration

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pretzel Crust: Pulse pretzels in a food processor until a mix of fine crumbs and small chunks forms. Alternatively, crush pretzels in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin.
  2. Mix Crust Ingredients: In a bowl, combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until crumbs are moistened and stick together when pressed, about 3 minutes.
  3. Form the Crust: Press the pretzel mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.
  4. Make the Filling: Whisk together sweetened condensed milk and sour cream until smooth, about 2 minutes. Add key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Whisk gently until slightly thickened, about 3 to 5 minutes.
  5. Assemble the Pie: Pour the filling into the chilled pretzel crust and spread evenly. Cover loosely with plastic wrap.
  6. Chill and Set: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the filling to thicken and flavors to meld.
  7. Serve: Top with whipped cream and lime slices or zest curls if desired. Slice with a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts.

Notes

Press the pretzel crust firmly but do not overpack to avoid toughness. Chill crust before adding filling to prevent sogginess. Use fresh lime juice for best flavor. Whisk filling gently to avoid breaking thickening reaction. Chill pie at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture. Dip knife in hot water before slicing for clean cuts.

Nutrition

Keywords: key lime pie, no-bake pie, pretzel crust, creamy pie, summer dessert, easy pie recipe, tangy pie, crunchy crust