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A slice of coconut key lime pie with whipped cream, toasted coconut flakes, and lime slices on a wooden plate.

Salted Coconut Key Lime Pie

This pie is a tropical delight, featuring a crunchy salted coconut graham cracker crust and a creamy, tangy key lime filling infused with the subtle sweetness of coconut. A perfect balance of sweet, tart, and salty.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, Tropical
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

For the Salted Coconut Graham Cracker Crust
  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs about 10-12 full sheets
  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter melted
For the Salted Coconut Key Lime Filling
  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk 14-ounce
  • 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk canned, well-stirred
  • 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice from approx. 10-15 key limes
  • 2 tsp key lime zest
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
For Garnish (Optional)
  • 1/4 cup sweetened shredded coconut toasted
  • Whipped cream or meringue

Equipment

  • 9-inch pie plate
  • Food Processor
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Zester or fine grater
  • Citrus juicer
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Prepare the Crust
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a food processor, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1 cup shredded coconut, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, and 1/4 tsp sea salt. Pulse until the coconut is finely chopped and well combined with the crumbs.
  2. Add the melted butter and pulse until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate. You can use the bottom of a glass or your knuckles to ensure a compact crust.
  3. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
Prepare the Filling
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, full-fat coconut milk, key lime juice, key lime zest, egg yolks, and 1/4 tsp sea salt until completely smooth and well combined. The mixture will thicken slightly as you whisk.
  2. Pour the filling into the pre-baked and slightly cooled crust.
Bake the Pie
  1. Return the pie to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly wobbly. Do not overbake; the pie will continue to set as it cools.
  2. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack at room temperature.
  3. Once cooled, cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to fully chill and set.
Serve and Garnish
  1. If using, toast the optional 1/4 cup shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown. Let cool.
  2. Slice the chilled pie and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or meringue, if desired, and sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes.

Notes

Freshly squeezed key lime juice is essential for the best flavor; bottled juice often contains artificial flavors. For easier juicing, roll key limes firmly on a counter before cutting them in half. The chilling time is crucial for the pie to set properly and achieve its signature creamy texture.