Steves Key Lime Pie for Thanksgiving: Keto & Non-Keto Options

Hello, dear kitchen companions! Thanksgiving is nearly here, and if you’re on the hunt for a pie that’s creamy, tangy, and a refreshing departure from the usual pumpkin or pecan, look no further! Steves Key Lime Pie isn’t just any pie—it’s a beautiful blend of vibrant lime with a twist that’s perfect for any dietary preference. Not only does it brighten up the dessert table with its gorgeous color, but it also brings a refreshing zing that complements those rich holiday flavors we love so much.

This steves key lime pie recipe is crafted with options for both keto and non-keto guests, so everyone can have a taste. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or enjoying a traditional treat, this pie is bound to add a unique twist to your Thanksgiving spread.

Why We Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Substitutions (Keto & Non-Keto Options)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Tips & Tricks
Serving Suggestions
Nutritional Benefits
Personal Anecdotes
Conclusion

Why We Love This Recipe

Steves Key Lime Pie isn’t just loved for its taste but for its surprising ease and versatility. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Light yet Flavorful: The creamy custard filling has all the tang and just the right amount of sweetness for everyone to enjoy.
Perfect for Any Diet: We’ve included keto-friendly and traditional options, so it’s a great addition for a mixed-diet Thanksgiving crowd.
Thanksgiving Refreshment: The bright lime notes offer a break from the usual rich holiday flavors, balancing the meal perfectly.
Family Favorite: Inspired by Steve’s love for classic key lime pie, this recipe has that “tastes like home” quality while offering new, fun twists for holiday gatherings.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Keto-Friendly Ingredients

Keto Crust

1 ¼ cup almond flour – Almond flour brings a lovely nutty base and keeps this keto-friendly. Substitute with coconut flour if you prefer, but reduce the quantity slightly.
¼ cup Swerve Brown Sweetener – A brown sugar substitute with a deep flavor and no carbs.
¼ teaspoon cinnamon – Adds a gentle warmth; feel free to add a dash of nutmeg for a holiday twist!
¼ teaspoon salt
3 ½ tablespoons melted butter – For a dairy-free option, try coconut oil.

Keto Filling

4 large egg yolks – Egg yolks help set the custard, giving it richness and structure.
1 tablespoon key lime zest – Fresh zest gives that punchy lime flavor; use regular limes if key limes aren’t available.
1 cup sugar-free condensed milk – Pre-made or homemade works; it adds creaminess without the carbs.
⅓ cup fresh key lime juice – Fresh juice is best, but lemon juice can also work in a pinch.
¼ cup powdered Swerve Sweetener – Sweetens the filling without adding carbs.

Traditional Ingredients

Non-Keto Crust

1 ¼ cup graham cracker crumbs – For a classic, sweet base with a slight crunch.
2 tablespoons granulated sugar – Regular sugar adds a touch of sweetness and caramelizes slightly when baked.
¼ teaspoon cinnamon – Enhances flavor with a warm undertone.
¼ teaspoon salt
5 tablespoons melted butter – Helps the graham cracker crumbs hold together and adds a lovely richness.

Traditional Filling

4 large egg yolks
1 tablespoon key lime zest
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk – Adds the signature creaminess and sweetness.
⅓ cup fresh key lime juice
Optional: 2 tablespoons granulated sugar – For those who prefer a sweeter filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1- Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together your crust ingredients based on the version you’re making (keto or non-keto).
Add butter: Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press into the pie pan: Firmly press the crust mixture into the bottom and up the sides of your pie dish.
Par-bake: For keto, bake for about 12 minutes or until the edges begin to brown. For non-keto, bake until lightly golden and aromatic, about 10 minutes. Let it cool completely before adding the filling.

2-Prepare the Filling

Beat the egg yolks and zest: In a bowl, beat egg yolks with lime zest for about 3–4 minutes until they thicken. This step is essential for a rich, creamy texture.
Add condensed milk: Depending on your version, add either sugar-free or traditional condensed milk and beat until the mixture increases in volume.
Add lime juice and sweetener (if keto): Beat again until smooth and well-combined. Adjust the sweetness as needed.

3- Assemble and Bake

Pour filling into the cooled crust.
Cover with foil: Place foil over the pie (shiny side up) to prevent the crust from over-browning.
Bake: Bake for 30 minutes with the foil on, then remove and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes or until the filling is set around the edges and slightly jiggly in the center.

4- Chill and Serve

Cool completely before refrigerating. Let the pie chill for at least 3 hours to set.
Top with whipped cream or a dairy-free alternative, then garnish with extra lime zest. Add festive holiday touches like cranberries or fresh mint for color.

Tips & Tricks

Storage: This pie is best stored in the fridge and can last up to 5 days.
Freezer-Friendly: While custard doesn’t always freeze well, this pie can be stored in the freezer for up to a month. Simply let it rest in the fridge overnight to achieve the perfect chilled texture before serving.
Preventing Cracking: Remove the pie while it’s still slightly jiggly in the center; it will firm up as it cools.
Whipped Cream Options: Use regular whipped cream for a non-keto option or make a sugar-free whipped cream with heavy cream and Swerve for a keto-friendly topping.

Serving Suggestions

For Thanksgiving, serve Steves Key Lime Pie with whipped cream and a sprinkle of lime zest for a classic finish. If you’re feeling festive, add fresh cranberries around the edges and a sprig of mint for a beautiful color contrast. This pie pairs well with after-dinner coffee or a warm cup of chamomile tea.

For a non-keto option, try pairing the pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or berry sorbet for an extra indulgent twist!

Nutritional Benefits

Keto Version

Low-Carb: With around 5g of carbs per serving, Steves Key Lime Pie is keto-friendly.
Healthy Fats: Almond flour and egg yolks offer healthy fats, keeping you satisfied.
Gluten-Free: Almond flour makes this a gluten-free treat.

Non-Keto Version

Source of Calcium: Traditional condensed milk is high in calcium.
Energy-Rich: The traditional crust offers a satisfying carb boost, ideal for a celebratory treat.

Personal Anecdotes

I remember the first Thanksgiving I tried Steves Key Lime Pie. I was knee-deep in mashed potatoes and gravy prep when Steve surprised us with this pie. The tangy lime flavor was a delightful contrast to the heavier holiday dishes, and it quickly became a new favorite. Since then, I’ve adapted it for keto and non-keto friends alike, so everyone can enjoy a slice of this refreshing dessert.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving isn’t just about tradition; it’s also about making new memories and embracing a little variety. Steves Key Lime Pie brings a unique twist to the dessert table that both keto and non-keto guests can enjoy. This year, add a slice of zesty goodness to your Thanksgiving meal—it’s a refreshing reminder to celebrate our differences and savor each delicious bite.

More to Savor

Complement with the refreshing How to Make Shaved Ice for a cool contrast.
Pair with Keto No Bake Cookies for a sweet and easy treat.
For a richer finish, enjoy with the creamy Making Flan.