If you’ve ever been to Publix Super Markets (or scrolled TikTok looking for “how to make a key lime pie”), you know their Key Lime Pie is legendary. It has that tangy flavor and creamy texture that makes you wish summer lasted all year. I set out on a mission: try several recipes until I nailed one that tastes just like a Publix Key Lime Pie. Spoiler: it’s so simple you’ll want to make this every chance you get

Publix Key Lime Pie Recipe (Publix Version)

Ingredients (Simple Ingredients, Delicious Pie)

• 2 cans (14 oz each) sweetened condensed milk

• 1 cup key lime juice (I use Nellie’s & Joe’s Key Lime Juice—easy to find in most grocery stores or via Publix’s delivery/mobile applications)

• 1 store-bought graham cracker crust (graham cracker crust, graham cracker crumbs, or if you’re feeling adventurous: try a shortbread or chocolate cookie crust!)

• ½ cup sliced almonds (for toasted almonds crunch)

• Whipped topping (Redi Whip or any whipped cream you love)

• Optional: lime zest (sprinkle for extra lime magic)

Note for halving the recipe: Use 1 can sweetened condensed milk + ½ cup lime juice; it will fill the pie crust about halfway—next time just top with extra whipped cream or mix in some lime zest so you’re not left wanting.

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Equipment / Prep

• Mixing bowl (big enough to whisk happily)

• Whisk or electric mixer (to get that smooth filling)

• Skillet (for toasting almonds)

• Refrigerator space (to chill until firm)

Step 1: Whisk Until Smooth

In your mixing bowl, whisk sweetened condensed milk and key lime juice until silky and smooth. Two cans of sweetened condensed milk fill the pie crust nicely—half the recipe might leave you with only a half-full crust, but hey, more whipped cream means more whipped cream joy!

Step 2: Pour into Crust

Pour that mixture into a store-bought graham cracker crust. Look how full and yummy it is!

Step 3: Chill for Firmness

Chill in the refrigerator for several hours until firm. Don’t leave it out too long—otherwise the creamy texture wants to escape!

Step 4: Toasted Almond Edge & Whipped Topping

1. In a skillet, toast sliced almonds until just golden—set aside to cool.

2. Pipe or spoon whipped cream around the outer edge of the pie.

3. Once almonds are cool, sprinkle them over the whipped topping. That toasted almonds crunch is what makes the Publix Key Lime Pie stand out!

Why This Works & “Aha!” Moment

I was skeptical: my “go-to” is a baked custard version (egg yolks, bake in oven). But mixing condensed milk + lime juice and chilling? Magic. No need to turn on the oven in hot summer months—still get that classic Publix version, perfect for slice-of-key-lime-pie cravings indoors or poolside.

Other Classic (and Unusual) Options to Consider

Traveling the Florida Keys? You’ll find dozens of takes on key lime pie. Next time you visit Key West (or while browsing TikTok – make videos about your culinary experiments), see how hard it is to agree on the “best Key Lime Pie.”

Baked Custard Version – Traditional Easy Key Lime Pie Recipe

• 1 9-inch graham cracker crust (or DIY with graham cracker crumbs + butter)

• 2 cans sweetened condensed milk

• 6 egg yolks

• 1 cup key lime juice (store-bought or fresh squeezed—lime zest optional)

Method: Blend milk + egg yolks at low speed until smooth; add lime juice; pour into crust; bake at 300°F for ~15 minutes until just set; cool 15 minutes, then refrigerate. Serve with whipped cream and lime zest.

Sponge Fisherman “Hooker” Style Key Lime Pie

Chef Paul Menta’s sun-baked inspiration—modernized for oven safety:

• 1 can sweetened condensed milk

• Juice of 2 key limes (or regular limes if that’s what you find; flavor profile differs slightly)

• 1 egg yolk

• Stale Cuban bread pieces (for nostalgia, but optional—you can skip or experiment)

• Oven-safe ramekins or coffee cups

Method: Mix milk, lime juice, egg yolk in can; pour over bread in ramekins; bake at 300°F until filling reaches 160°F for safety; cool and enjoy.

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Interesting Alternatives & Creative Spins

• Crust experiments: brown sugar crust, shortbread crust, chocolate cookie crust—thinking outside the box makes your pie a conversation piece!

• Add lime zest: for flecks of green sparkle in filling.

• Alternative toppings: raspberry coulis drizzle, toasted coconut flakes, or a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs on whipped cream.

• Publix’s delivery angle: If you swing by Publix Super Markets for pharmacy pickup or grocery run, grab a pie to compare! Or use the Publix mobile application to order a pie and try making this copycat at home.

• TikTok challenge: Show your audience “Publix version vs. homemade” side-by-side tasting. Use fun music, quick cuts, and call to action (“Tag key lime pie lovers!”).

Final Thoughts

Before you head out (online or in-store) to grab a Publix Key Lime Pie or attempt your own copycat, remember:

• Next time you taste that tangy, creamy slice, savor how simple ingredients can create magic.

• Florida Keys inspiration: Whether you’re daydreaming of beaches or planning your next trip, a homemade pie pairs perfectly with memories of Key West sunsets.

• Social media content: Share your creation with #KeyLimePieLovers or #PublixCopycat on TikTok/Instagram—tag us so we can cheer you on!

Enjoy the journey from mixing bowl to fridge-chilled delight. And if you’re browsing web browsers for “Publix Key Lime Pie recipe,” bookmark this page for the ultimate “Publix version” at home.

Happy pie-making—and may your toasted almonds always be perfectly golden!