Irresistible Silky Smooth Key Lime Tart Recipe

This Silky Smooth Key Lime Tart Recipe creates a velvety, tangy filling nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust, baked to perfection. Perfect for summer gatherings, dinner parties, or a refreshing dessert, this tart brings a burst of citrusy flavor to your table. I made this for a family barbecue, and the creamy, zesty tart was a refreshing hit! Ready in about 1 hour (plus chilling), this baked recipe delivers a bakery-quality treat with simple steps.

Why You’ll Love This Key Lime Tart Recipe

This tart is straightforward to prepare with a smooth, creamy texture and vibrant lime flavor. The graham cracker crust adds a perfect crunch. It’s versatile, allowing for garnishes like whipped cream or berries. I love how it’s a refreshing, crowd-pleasing dessert. Find more citrus recipes at Fast Zest Recipes.

Health Benefits of Key Lime Tart

Key limes provide vitamin C for immunity and antioxidants for cell health. Using Greek yogurt adds protein and probiotics. A light crust keeps it balanced. Pairing with fresh fruit boosts vitamins. Learn more about citrus desserts at Sally’s Baking Addiction.

Ingredients for Silky Smooth Key Lime Tart

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice (about 12-15 key limes)
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tsp key lime zest

For Garnish (Optional):

• 1/2 cup whipped cream
• 1 tbsp key lime zest
• 1/4 cup fresh berries (raspberries or blueberries)

Substitutions: Use regular lime juice if key limes are unavailable. Swap Greek yogurt with sour cream for a tangier filling. Replace graham crackers with gingersnaps for a spiced crust. Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free crust.

Notes: Use fresh key lime juice for the best flavor. Chill tart for at least 2 hours for clean slices. Press crust firmly for a solid base.

How to Make Silky Smooth Key Lime Tart

Prep Crust

Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch tart pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden; cool slightly. This creates a crisp, buttery base.

Make Filling

In a large bowl, whisk sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, egg yolks, Greek yogurt, and lime zest until smooth. Pour into the cooled crust. This forms a tangy, creamy filling.

Bake

Bake for 15-18 minutes until the filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This ensures a silky texture.

Serve

Remove from the tart pan. Garnish with whipped cream, lime zest, or berries if desired. Slice and serve chilled. This adds a fresh, vibrant touch.

Preparation Tips

• Use fresh juice: Fresh key limes give the best zesty flavor. This enhances taste. I used fresh juice, and it was perfect.
• Press crust evenly: Use a measuring cup to compact the crust. This prevents crumbling. I pressed mine firmly, and it was great.
• Don’t overbake: Bake until just set to keep the filling silky. This avoids cracking. I timed mine, and it was ideal.
• Chill thoroughly: Refrigerate for 2+ hours for clean slices. This worked for me. I chilled mine, and it was perfect.
• Zest carefully: Zest only the green part of limes for bright flavor. This boosts aroma. I zested mine, and it was spot-on.
• Garnish last: Add whipped cream or berries just before serving. This keeps it fresh. I garnished mine, and it was great.
• Serve chilled: Keep cold until serving for the best texture. This maximizes enjoyment. I served mine chilled, and it was delicious.

Variations and Substitutions

• Use lemon juice: Swap key lime for lemon for a lemon tart. This changes flavor. I tried lemon, and it was delicious.
• Add coconut: Mix 1/4 cup shredded coconut into the crust for a tropical twist. This adds texture. I tried coconut, and it was great.
• Make it dairy-free: Use coconut milk instead of condensed milk and coconut oil for the crust. This suits diets. I tried dairy-free, and it was tasty.
• Add meringue topping: Top with whipped egg whites and sugar, baked briefly. This adds fluffiness. I tried meringue, and it was exciting.
• Use gingersnap crust: Swap graham crackers for gingersnaps for spice. This enhances warmth. I tried gingersnaps, and it was vibrant.
• Make mini tarts: Use a muffin tin for individual tarts; bake for 10-12 minutes. This changes format. I tried mini, and it was fine.
• Add vanilla: Include 1/2 tsp vanilla extract in the filling for depth. This boosts flavor. I tried vanilla, and it was great.

Storage and Meal Prep

Store tart wrapped tightly in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freeze slices wrapped individually for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight. Prep crust and filling a day ahead; store filling in the fridge and crust at room temperature. Bake fresh for the best texture. Add garnish just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Silky Smooth Key Lime Tart Recipe

Here are answers to common questions about this dessert.

1. Why is my filling runny?
   Bake until set and chill longer. I chilled mine overnight, and it was perfect.
2. Can I make it ahead?
   Bake a day ahead; refrigerate for best results. I prepped early, and it was great.
3. Why is my crust soggy?
   Bake crust until golden and cool before filling. I baked mine, and it was fine.
4. Can I use regular limes?
   Yes, but key limes are more aromatic. I used key limes, and it was tasty.
5. Can I make it dairy-free?
   Use coconut milk and oil instead of dairy. I tried dairy-free, and it was delicious.
6. Why did my filling crack?
   Don’t overbake; cool gradually. I timed mine, and it was perfect.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for extra richness. Pair with a cup of iced tea for a refreshing vibe. Enjoy with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced dessert. I served mine with berries, and it was a perfect match. This tart is great for summer parties, dinners, or refreshing treats.

Nutrition Info for Silky Smooth Key Lime Tart

Per serving (1 slice, 8 servings):

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 28g
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
  Source: USDA Food Database (2025). Values are approximate.

Final Thoughts

This Silky Smooth Key Lime Tart Recipe is a zesty, creamy delight that’s perfect for any occasion. Its tangy filling and crunchy crust make it a go-to favorite. How do you like to garnish your tart? Let us know in the comments!