The Best Gluten Free Key Lime Pie

When you take a bite of this silky, citrus-infused treat, it's the most unbelievable dream! The Best Gluten Free Key Lime Pie is an easy, gluten free, dairy free, & refined sugar free dessert that’s as healthy as it is irresistibly creamy! As my mom’s all-time favorite dessert, I created this recipe especially for her birthday—because what better way to celebrate than with a slice of zesty perfection? So whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting Thanksgiving, or craving a midweek healthy treat—this homemade gluten-free lime pie promises all that traditional key lime pie does & more. The creamy filling, zesty punch, and perfect crust you love—without compromising on taste. Let’s make The Best Gluten Free Key Lime Pie! 🍋‍🟩✨🍰

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How to Make The Best Gluten Free Key Lime Pie

Gluten Free Crust Ingredients

• Almond Flour (2 cups): A naturally gluten-free base that’s rich in protein and adds a crumbly, buttery texture.
• Almond Butter (1 cup): Helps bind the crust while adding a rich, nutty flavor.
• Coconut Sugar (1 cup): A healthier alternative to refined sugar with a mild caramel-like sweetness.
• Eggs (2): Essential for binding the ingredients.
• Cinnamon (2 tablespoons): Adds warmth and depth to the crust.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances the flavors.

Key Lime Pie Filling Ingredients

• Fresh Lime Juice (from 6 limes): Key to the tangy flavor.
• Lime Zest: Adds extra zing & flavor to the filling.
• Coconut Milk (1 can, unsweetened): Creates a creamy, dairy-free filling.
• Cashews (1 cup): These get blended into the filling, adding richness without dairy.
• Egg Yolks (from 3 eggs): Essential for creating the custard-like texture.
• Maple Syrup (1 ½ cups): Naturally sweetens the filling without overpowering the lime.

Step-By-Step Instruction

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, almond butter, coconut sugar, eggs, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until the mixture forms a sticky dough. Press the dough evenly into a pie pan, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While the crust cools, prepare the filling. In a food processor or blender—blend the cashews, fresh lime juice & zest, coconut milk, egg yolks, and maple syrup until fully combined and smooth.

Step 3: Bake the Pie

Pour the filling into the crust. Bake the pie for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is just set. The edges should look firm, but the center can jiggle slightly—it will firm up as it cools.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Let the pie cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better). This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. Before serving, top the pie with whipped coconut cream and garnish with extra lime zest for a pop of color! Enjoy! 🍋‍🟩✨

Tips for the Perfect Gluten Free Key Lime Pie

1. Fresh Lime Juice is Non-Negotiable: For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed key lime juice. If key limes aren’t available, regular limes are an excellent substitute.
2. Don’t Skip the Zest: The zest adds a concentrated lime flavor that elevates the filling.
3. Chill Time is Key: Allowing the pie to set in the fridge ensures the filling firms up to the perfect consistency.
4. Customize the Crust to Your Liking: While almond flour is our go-to, you can experiment with other gluten-free flours like coconut flour or oat flour.

Why This Recipe Is The Best

What sets this gluten free lime pie recipe apart is its perfect balance of simplicity, healthfulness, and flavor. The combination of a buttery, cinnamon-spiced crust with a tangy, creamy filling makes it irresistible. Plus, the use of wholesome ingredients like almond flour and cashews ensures every bite is also really nutritious and made only with whole foods.

Fun Variations & Toppings

Chocolate-Lime Twist: Add a layer of melted dairy-free chocolate on the crust before pouring in the filling.

Coconut-Lime Delight: Stir shredded coconut into the crust or sprinkle it on top as a garnish.

Mini Pies: Use a muffin tin to create individual gluten-free lime pies for portion-controlled treats.

Topping Ideas to Try: This pie gluten free sweetened recipe shines on its own but pairs beautifully with:

• A dollop of whipped coconut cream
• A sprinkle of crushed gluten-free graham crackers (Simple Mills makes a refined sugar free graham cracker that I LOVE)
• Fresh fruit like raspberries or strawberries

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes for this recipe?

Yes—I actually use regular limes in this recipe! While key limes are traditional and have a slightly more floral, tangy flavor I prefer regular limes and they’re often easier to find. Fresh lime juice is the key to a delicious pie.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, this recipe is completely dairy-free! It uses coconut milk and cashews to create a creamy filling without the need for traditional condensed milk. Sweetened condensed milk is also full of refined sugar.

What’s the difference between key limes and regular limes?

Key limes are smaller, have thinner skin, and are slightly more tart and aromatic than regular limes. Either works in this recipe, but key limes will give you the classic flavor.

How long does it take to make this gluten-free key lime pie?

The hands-on preparation takes about 20 minutes. Baking and chilling add extra time, so plan for at least 4-6 hours to allow the pie to cool and set.

Can I freeze gluten-free key lime pie?

Yes, you can freeze this pie! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. Let it thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving.

What can I use instead of almond flour for the crust?

If you’re allergic to nuts, you can substitute almond flour with gluten-free oat flour or coconut flour. Note that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Do I have to use fresh lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is highly recommended for the best flavor. Bottled lime juice can taste artificial and won’t give the same zesty kick.

Can I make this pie vegan?

Yes! To make this pie vegan, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) or a vegan egg replacer. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.

What is the best way to zest limes?

Use a microplane or fine grater to zest the limes. Be sure to only remove the green outer layer, avoiding the bitter white part underneath the green skin.

What toppings pair well with gluten-free key lime pie?

Whipped coconut cream, a sprinkle of lime zest, or fresh berries are excellent toppings. For an extra touch, add a drizzle of dairy-free chocolate or toasted coconut flakes.

Is this recipe refined sugar-free?

Yes, this recipe uses coconut sugar and maple syrup as natural sweeteners, making it free of refined sugar.

How do I know when the pie is done baking?

The edges should be firm, and the center should jiggle slightly when shaken. It will set fully as it cools.

Can I make mini pies instead of one large pie?

Absolutely! Divide the crust and filling into muffin tins or small tart pans for individual servings. Adjust the baking time to 15-20 minutes for smaller portions.

How do I store pie leftovers?

Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it.

What are some variations I can try with this recipe?

You can add shredded coconut to the crust for a tropical twist, or create a chocolate-lime pie by spreading a layer of melted dairy-free chocolate over the crust before adding the filling.

Enjoy!

If you’re looking for a dessert that balances tangy and sweet with a light, refreshing touch, this gluten-free key lime pie is the perfect choice. The vibrant lime filling pairs beautifully with the rich, nutty crust, creating a pie that’s both satisfying and effortless to make. One bite, and you’ll see why this truly earns its title as The Best Gluten Free Key Lime Pie. Have the sweetest day & tag me on Instagram when you make this recipe! @entirelyemmy ✨