Key Lime Pie is the famous dessert enjoyed in Florida and is the state’s official pie. The origins of of Key Lime Pie, however, are debatable ranging from stories of an “Aunt Sally” in 1890 making the pie in Key West, Florida to the invention of the pie by the Borden condensed milk company in New York City in 1931.
Despite its origins, the lime is strongly associated with the Florida Keys from which the name is derived. However, Key Limes are actually native to tropical Southeast Asia and are primarily grown in Mexico and Central America where they are known as Mexican or West Indies limes. Key Limes have not been grown commercially in the United States since 1926, when a hurricane devastated Miami, Florida, the Bahamas, and the Gulf Coast.
Key Limes are smaller and sweeter than Persian limes (the kind you typically find in the grocery store) and have more seeds. They have a high juice content and thin, leathery skin. When purchasing key limes, choose those that are heavy for their size, firm, shiny, and have no blemishes or bruises.
The green color indicates they are immature but the juice from green key limes is known for it’s tart flavor. As key limes ripen they become more of a yellow color and their flesh is less acidic leading to a sweeter flavor.
Key limes can be stored in the pantry for up to one week. For longer storage you can keep them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 weeks. You can also freeze key limes whole. For best quality use frozen key limes within 3 to 4 months. You can defrost them in the microwave for a few seconds or in water for @15 minutes. They will be mushy when thawed but will be great for the juice.
Besides the famous pie, Key Limes can be used in cookies, cupcakes, cocktails, marinades and dressings.
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Sources:
The Mysterious Origin of Key Lime Pie. Southern Living.
The Difference Between Florida Key Limes and Regular Limes. Southern Living.
Reviewed and Updated 3/2-25, mg.
