Key Lime Pie — Zero-Carb Style

This creamy zero-carb-style key lime pie has a buttery low-carb crust and a smooth, tangy lime filling. It’s a great option when you want the classic flavor of key lime pie without the traditional sugar and flour.

Note: Truly zero-carb pie is difficult because ingredients such as lime juice and dairy contain small amounts of naturally occurring carbohydrates. This recipe is very low carb, rather than literally zero carb.

Ingredients

For the Crust

1½ cups almond flour
4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
2 tbsp powdered erythritol or another granulated keto sweetener
¼ tsp salt
½ tsp vanilla extract

For the Key Lime Filling

1 cup heavy whipping cream
8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
⅓ cup powdered erythritol
¼ cup fresh key lime juice
1 tbsp finely grated lime zest
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Optional Topping

½ cup whipped cream
Lime zest
Thin lime slices

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Combine the almond flour, melted butter, sweetener, salt, and vanilla in a bowl.

Mix until the mixture resembles damp sand.

Press it firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish.

Bake for 8–10 minutes, until lightly golden around the edges.

Remove and allow it to cool completely.

2. Make the Creamy Filling

Place the softened cream cheese in a large bowl.

Beat until completely smooth.

Add the powdered sweetener gradually and continue beating until creamy.

Mix in the lime juice, lime zest, vanilla, and salt.

3. Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.

Don’t overwhip.

Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and fluffy.

4. Fill the Pie

Pour the filling over the cooled crust.

Smooth the top with a spatula.

Cover the pie and refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours, preferably overnight.

The filling will firm up as it chills.

5. Garnish and Serve

Before serving, top with a little whipped cream and freshly grated lime zest.

For an attractive finish, add a few very thin lime slices around the edge.

Cut into slices and serve cold.

🍋 Tips for the Best Low-Carb Key Lime Pie

Use fresh lime juice for the brightest flavor.
Powdered sweetener gives a smoother filling than granulated sweetener.
Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing.
Chill overnight for the firmest texture.
If you prefer a stronger lime flavor, add another ½ tablespoon of lime zest.
For a completely crustless version, simply prepare the filling and chill it in individual dessert glasses.

Storage

Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

You can also freeze individual slices for up to 1 month. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 4–6 hours
Servings: 8 slices