First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This is crucial as it ensures your pie crust bakes evenly, developing that lovely golden color.
In a medium-sized bowl, stir together 1 and 1/4 cups of graham cracker crumbs, 3 tablespoons of sugar, and 5 tablespoons of melted butter. Use a fork to mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened and the mixture resembles wet sand.
Next, press the crumb mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie plate, making sure to cover the bottom and sides evenly. You can use a measuring cup or the bottom of a glass to ensure it's packed tightly.
Once the crust is pressed in, bake it for 12 minutes or until it turns a lovely golden brown. This step is essential for achieving a crispy crust that holds its shape.
Let the crust cool completely. While it cools, you can prepare the filling.
In a clean medium-sized bowl, whisk together 14 ounces of sweetened condensed milk and 4 large egg yolks. Make sure to whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This is where the magic begins!
Add in the zest of 1 large lime and 1/2 cup of fresh lime juice into the mixture. Whisk again until everything is well incorporated. You should start to smell that wonderful lime aroma.
Once the pie crust is slightly warm or at room temperature, pour the lime filling over it, spreading it evenly.
Bake the pie in the oven for 15 to 17 minutes. Watch for the filling to set but still have a slight jiggle in the center. It will firm up as it cools.
After baking, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a cooling rack. Once it’s cool, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set completely. This step is crucial for getting that perfect slice.
Once chilled, cut the pie into pieces and serve it cold or at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own, but feel free to add a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
