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key lime tart recipe

Key Lime Tart

Emma F., smiling female cake chef wearing a pastel pink apron in a cozy kitchenEmma F.
This chilled key lime tart features a buttery tart shell and a creamy, tangy filling. Perfect for any elegant dessert occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 slices
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9-inch tart pan with removable bottom
  • 1 electric mixer
  • 1 Mixing Bowl medium

Ingredients
  

Tart Shell

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter cubed
  • Pinch of salt

Key Lime Filling

  • 1 can 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom and set aside.

Making the Tart Shell

  • In a bowl, mix together all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add the cubed butter and blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared tart pan. Ensure it is evenly distributed.
  • Bake the tart shell for 15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let it cool on a wire rack.

Preparing the Filling

  • In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and fresh key lime juice until smooth and well combined.
  • Pour the filling into the cooled tart shell, spreading it evenly. The filling should be thick and creamy.

Final Baking and Chilling

  • Return the filled tart to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
  • Remove from the oven, let it cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

Serving

  • Slice the tart using a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts. Serve chilled for the best flavor.

Storage

  • Store any leftover tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use fresh key lime juice for the best flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions: Persian limes can be used if key limes are unavailable.
How to Serve: Garnish with whipped cream or lime zest.
Storage & Freshness: Keep refrigerated, best consumed within 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare tart shell in advance and store at room temperature.
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