A Refreshing Gluten-Free Key Lime Pie
Craving a taste of sunshine? This vegan and gluten-free Key Lime Pie brings the tangy, creamy goodness of a classic dessert to your table, without any gluten or dairy! Made with just a handful of simple ingredients, this pie is surprisingly easy to make and perfect for a light and refreshing treat.
If you love citrus desserts, you should also try our Zesty Gluten-Free Lemon Bars. For another creamy dessert option, check out our Silky Smooth Gluten-Free Panna Cotta. Both are fantastic additions to any gluten-free dessert spread!
Why This Recipe Works
Traditional Key Lime Pie relies on eggs and condensed milk for its rich texture. This version cleverly uses coconut milk and cornstarch to achieve that same creamy consistency, while keeping it completely plant-based. The addition of maple syrup provides the perfect touch of sweetness to balance the tangy lime flavor.
Creating delicious gluten-free desserts doesn’t have to be complicated. Just like our Gluten-Free Strawberry Cheesecake with Coconut Crust, this pie is a testament to how simple swaps can make classic treats accessible to everyone. Plus, this recipe is nut-free, making it suitable for those with nut allergies as well!
Get ready to enjoy a slice of heaven that’s both delicious and inclusive!
How to Make Gluten-Free Vegan Key Lime Pie
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and refreshing gluten-free vegan Key Lime Pie!
- Prepare the Crust: If you haven’t already, bake your gluten-free pie crust. You can use our easy 3-Ingredient Pie Crust recipe or any pre-made gluten-free and vegan pie crust of your choice. Ensure it’s pre-baked before adding the filling.
- Combine Filling Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add the lime juice, lime zest, maple syrup, full-fat coconut milk, vanilla extract, cornstarch, and salt.
- Heat and Thicken: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring the mixture occasionally. Bring it to a boil.
- Simmer Until Thickened: Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and continue to cook for 7-9 minutes. It’s crucial to stir constantly during this step to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pot and burning.
- Pour into Crust: After the mixture has thickened to a pudding-like consistency, pour it carefully into your pre-baked pie crust.
- Remove Air Bubbles: Gently tap the pie tin on the counter to bring any air bubbles to the surface. This will help create a smooth and even filling.
- Refrigerate to Set: Cover the pie and refrigerate for at least 5 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the pie to fully set and thicken to the perfect creamy texture. Remember that the filling will thicken significantly as it cools.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the pie is fully set, slice and serve chilled. Top with vegan whipped cream or enjoy as is!
Important Notes for Success:
- Crust Options: While a graham cracker crust is traditional, use any pre-baked vegan and gluten-free crust you prefer. Our 3-Ingredient Pie Crust is a great option!
- Cornstarch is Key: For the best results, use a non-GMO cornstarch as the thickener. While we haven’t tested it, arrowroot powder or tapioca flour may also work as substitutes.
- Storage: This pie will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. However, do not freeze it, as freezing will alter the consistency and make it less enjoyable.
Ingredients
- 1 Easy 3 Ingredient Pie Crust or other pre-baked nut-free Pie Crust of Choice
- ½ cup fresh Lime Juice
- 1 tsp Lime Zest
- ½ cup Maple Syrup (or other liquid sweetener of choice)
- 1 13.5 oz can Full Fat Coconut Milk
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 5 tbsp Organic Cornstarch*
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: Vegan Whipped Cream, for topping
Nutrition Insights for Your Gluten-Free Vegan Key Lime Pie
Indulge in this creamy, tangy Vegan Key Lime Pie without the worry of gluten! Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional benefits:
- Gluten-Free Goodness: This recipe is entirely gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious option for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. We use cornstarch as a thickener, ensuring a smooth texture without any gluten-containing ingredients.
- Dairy-Free Delight: By using full-fat coconut milk, we achieve a rich and creamy texture without any dairy. This makes the pie suitable for vegans and those with lactose intolerance. Coconut milk also provides healthy fats and a unique flavor profile.
- Naturally Sweetened: Maple syrup serves as a natural and unrefined sweetener, adding a touch of caramel-like flavor while avoiding processed sugars. You can adjust the amount to suit your sweetness preference.
- Vitamin C Boost: Fresh lime juice not only provides the signature tangy flavor but also delivers a healthy dose of Vitamin C, an essential antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health.
Tips, Tricks, and Variations for the Perfect Gluten-Free Vegan Key Lime Pie
Here are some helpful tips and variations to ensure your Vegan Key Lime Pie turns out perfectly every time:
- Crust Options: While the recipe suggests a 3-Ingredient Pie Crust, feel free to use any pre-baked nut-free and gluten-free pie crust of your choice. There are many store-bought options available, or you can make your own using gluten-free flour blends.
- Thickening Agents: If you don’t have cornstarch on hand, you can substitute with arrowroot powder or tapioca flour. Use the same amount (5 tablespoons) for best results. Keep in mind that the final texture might vary slightly.
- Sweetener Alternatives: Experiment with other liquid sweeteners like agave nectar or brown rice syrup. Adjust the quantity to match the sweetness of maple syrup, starting with a smaller amount and adding more to taste.
- Lime Variety: While this recipe calls for regular limes, you can use key limes for a more authentic flavor. Key limes are slightly more tart, so you may need to increase the amount of maple syrup to balance the flavors.
- Serving Suggestions: Top your pie with vegan whipped cream, fresh lime slices, or a sprinkle of lime zest for an extra touch of elegance.
- Storage: This pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. However, avoid freezing it, as this will alter the texture and make it less enjoyable.
- Dietary Adaptations:
- Nut-Free: Ensure your pie crust is nut-free to keep this recipe safe for those with nut allergies.
- Refined Sugar-Free: Use a low-glycemic liquid sweetener like stevia or monk fruit syrup, adjusting the amount to taste.
Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Gluten-Free Vegan Key Lime Pie!
Essential Equipment for This Recipe
To prepare this delicious recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:
- Mixing Bowls – A set of quality mixing bowls is crucial for preparing the ingredients.
Find Mixing Bowls on Amazon - Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accurate measurements are key to baking success!
Find Measuring Cups and Spoons on Amazon - Baking Sheets – For evenly baked goods, a reliable baking sheet is a must.
Find Baking Sheets on Amazon - Whisks – Essential for incorporating air and creating a smooth batter.
Find Whisks on Amazon - Spatulas – Perfect for folding ingredients gently and scraping bowls clean.
Find Spatulas on Amazon - Food Processors – To blend and mix ingredients faster
Find Food Processors on Amazon - Saucepans – Needed for heating and simmering ingredients.
Find Saucepans on Amazon - Chef’s Knives – Perfect for all manner of slicing and dicing.
Find Chef’s Knives on Amazon - Cutting Boards – A safe space to prepare your ingredients!
Find Cutting Boards on Amazon