Ultimate Low-Carb Key Lime Pie with Cream Cheese

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Ultimate Low-Carb Key Lime Pie with Cream Cheese – A Keto Dream Dessert!

If you’re searching for a showstopping dessert that fits your low-carb lifestyle, this Creamy Key Lime Pie with Cream Cheese will become your new favorite. With its zesty lime filling, buttery almond crust, and luxurious texture, this pie delivers all the classic flavors without the carbs or guilt—each slice contains just 5g net carbs!

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step to create the perfect sugar-free key lime pie, including expert tips, ingredient substitutions, storage advice, and answers to all your burning questions. Whether you’re following keto, gluten-free, or simply want a healthier dessert option, this recipe is easy, foolproof, and utterly delicious.

Why This Recipe Works

✨ Authentic flavor without the sugar – Uses natural sweeteners and fresh lime for that perfect tangy-sweet balance
✨ Creamy, dreamy texture – The cream cheese adds richness while keeping it low-carb
✨ Simple, no-fuss preparation – Only 15 minutes of active prep time
✨ Versatile for dietary needs – Easily adaptable for dairy-free, nut-free, or vegan diets
✨ Make-ahead friendly – Perfect for entertaining or meal prep

The Science Behind the Perfect Low-Carb Key Lime Pie

Creating a keto-friendly version of this classic dessert required careful ingredient selection:

  • Almond flour crust provides a sturdy, flavorful base with just 3g net carbs per serving
  • Cream cheese adds body and helps stabilize the filling without excessive carbs
  • Fresh lime juice and zest deliver that authentic key lime punch
  • Erythritol sweetens without raising blood sugar
  • Heavy cream creates lightness while keeping carbs low

This combination replicates the texture and taste of traditional key lime pie while remaining firmly in low-carb territory.

Detailed Ingredients List

For the Crust (9-inch pie):

  • 1 ½ cups superfine almond flour (168g)
  • ¼ cup granulated erythritol (48g)
  • ¼ cup melted butter (57g)
  • ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp fine sea salt

For the Filling:

  • 16 oz full-fat cream cheese
  • ¾ cup fresh key lime juice (about 15-20 limes)
  • 2 tbsp key lime zest
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • ⅔ cup powdered erythritol (80g)
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp xanthan gum (for perfect texture)

Optional Garnishes:

  • Sugar-free whipped cream
  • Thin lime slices
  • Toasted coconut flakes
  • Mint leaves

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

1. Preparing the Perfect Crust

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, erythritol, and salt.
  3. Add melted butter and vanilla, stirring until crumbs form.
  4. Press mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie dish, building up the sides.
  5. Bake for 12-14 minutes until golden brown. Cool completely.

Pro Tip: For extra crispness, bake the crust an additional 2-3 minutes.

2. Making the Luxurious Filling

  1. Using a stand mixer, beat cream cheese until completely smooth (about 2 minutes).
  2. Gradually add powdered sweetener, mixing well.
  3. Incorporate lime juice, zest, and vanilla on low speed.
  4. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks.
  5. Gently fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture in three batches.
  6. For optimal texture, sprinkle in xanthan gum while folding.

3. Assembling the Pie

  1. Pour filling into cooled crust, smoothing the top.
  2. Tap gently to remove air bubbles.
  3. Refrigerate for minimum 6 hours (overnight preferred).

4. Serving Suggestions

  • Top with fresh whipped cream using a piping bag
  • Garnish with lime zest spirals for elegance
  • Add edible flowers for special occasions

Expert Tips for Flawless Results

🔹 Temperature matters – All ingredients should be at room temperature for smoothest filling
🔹 Zest first – Always zest limes before juicing for maximum flavor
🔹 Sweetener options – Allulose blends smoother than erythritol
🔹 No almond flour? Try this alternative crust:

  • 1 ¼ cups crushed pecans
  • 3 tbsp finely ground coconut flour
  • 3 tbsp liquid coconut oil (gently warmed)

Storage & Make-Ahead Guide

Refrigerator:

  • Stores beautifully for 5 days
  • Cover tightly with plastic wrap

Freezer:

  • Slice prior to freezing for effortless portioning
  • Keeps for 1 month in airtight container
  • Thaw overnight in fridge

Meal Prep Tip:

Make crusts in bulk and freeze unbaked for future use

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use bottled lime juice?

A: While possible, fresh juice provides superior flavor. If using bottled, choose 100% lime juice with no additives.

Q: Why is my filling runny?

A: This usually occurs from:

  • Under-whipped cream
  • Not chilling long enough
  • Skipping xanthan gum

Q: How do I prevent cracks?

A: Avoid overmixing after adding whipped cream, and chill gradually (don’t freeze immediately).

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?

A: Absolutely! Use:

  • Vegan cream cheese
  • Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream
  • Coconut oil in crust

Creative Variations to Try

1. Chocolate Lime Pie

  • Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder to crust
  • Drizzle with sugar-free chocolate sauce

2. Berry Swirl Version

  • Fold in ¼ cup sugar-free raspberry jam before chilling

3. Mini Tartlets

  • Press crust into muffin tin for individual servings
  • Reduce baking time to 8 minutes

4. Margarita Pie

  • Add 1 tsp tequila extract (alcohol cooks out)
  • Rim with salt and lime zest

Final Thoughts

This Low-Carb Key Lime Pie with Cream Cheese proves you don’t need sugar to create an unforgettable dessert experience. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ, holiday gathering, or just treating yourself, this pie delivers restaurant-quality results with homemade simplicity.

We’d love to hear your experience! Did you try any variations? What garnishes did you use? Share your creations in the comments below!

Happy baking! 🍋✨

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