Description
These Key Lime Tartlets feature a buttery graham cracker crust filled with a creamy, tangy key lime filling and topped with lightly sweetened whipped cream. They are bright, refreshing, and perfect for summer entertaining, offering a delightful combination of zesty lime flavor and smooth texture in convenient mini portions.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the filling:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream, cold
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Key lime zest, for garnish
- Thin lime slices, optional
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease 6–8 small tartlet pans or a muffin pan to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and hold together when pressed.
- Form Crusts: Divide the crumb mixture evenly among the tartlet pans. Press firmly into the bottoms and slightly up the sides to form the crusts.
- Bake Crusts: Bake the crusts for 7–8 minutes until they are set and fragrant. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.
- Prepare Filling: In a bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, fresh key lime juice, key lime zest, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Fill Tartlets: Pour the lime filling evenly into the cooled crusts, filling them nearly to the top.
- Bake Filling: Return the tartlets to the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes until the edges of the filling are set but the center still has a slight jiggle, indicating a creamy texture.
- Cool and Chill: Let the tartlets cool at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully set and chill the filling.
- Make Whipped Cream: Using a mixer, beat the cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form, creating a light and fluffy topping.
- Top and Garnish: Spoon or pipe the whipped cream onto each chilled tartlet. Garnish with extra key lime zest and optional thin lime slices for a fresh finish.
- Serve: Serve the tartlets chilled for a refreshing and tangy dessert perfect for warm weather.
Notes
- Fresh key lime juice gives the best authentic flavor, but regular fresh lime juice can be substituted.
- Do not overbake the filling; it should remain creamy and slightly soft in the center for the perfect texture.
- Make the tartlets a day ahead for easy entertaining and enhanced flavors.
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- For a stronger lime flavor, add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of lime zest to the filling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
