Jack Davis loves Miami key lime pie, a beloved Florida icon. Do you know that key lime pie has its roots in Florida? Let’s explore the history of Key Lime Pie, a Florida staple that has its origin just south of our city in Key West. In this blog, we will unravel the fascinating history of Key Lime Pie, exploring its roots, evolution, and its special place in the hearts of those who savor its irresistible flavor. So, let’s begin exploring this Florida classic and discover the key to its enduring popularity.
The History of Key Lime Pie in Miami
This delectable dessert owes its creation to the early settlers of the area, who made ingenious use of the native key limes, which thrive in the subtropical climate. That was back when bakers used what grew around them. And lucky for us it was key limes!
The story goes that the recipe was developed by cooks in Key West who creatively combined key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolks to create a sweet and tart filling that didn’t require baking. The filling is the heart of the pie. The choice of key limes, which are smaller and more aromatic than regular limes, imparted a distinct and zesty flavor to the pie. The acidity of the key lime juice thickens the sweetened condensed milk. The crust is typically made from crushed graham crackers mixed with sugar and butter. This mixture is pressed into a pie dish and baked until it sets. Once the filling is placed on the crust, the pie is refrigerated for several hours, allowing it to firm up and develop its full flavor. Key lime pie is often served with a dollop of whipped cream on top to balance the tartness of the pie with sweetness. Some variations of key lime pie are garnished with lime zest or thin lime slices for added flavor and presentation.
This delightful dessert has gained immense popularity and moved up the coast to Miami. This humble dessert gained popularity among regulars and visitors alike, evolving into the iconic and refreshing treat that we know today. The pie perfectly captures the essence of Miami’s tropical climate and culture, making it a true culinary treasure of the region. Lucky for us, it became a staple of Miami’s culinary landscape and part of the tradition of our city.
And Key Lime Pie has stood the test of trends. Today, the dessert is a standard and remains a cherished symbol of Miami’s vibrant culture and tropical allure, enticing visitors to savor a slice of history and its unforgettable taste.
Jack Davis on the variations of Key Lime Pie
While the classic version of Key lime pie is the most well-known, there are many variations and interpretations of this dessert, including frozen key lime pie, key lime-mango pie, and even key lime pie-flavored ice cream.
The many variations are as diverse as the other cultural influences that permeate Miami’s scene. While the classic version remains a beloved staple, creative chefs and bakers have introduced a range of twists. Bakers around the city experiment with alternative crusts, including coconut and pecan, which can add unique textures and flavors. You’ll also find variations like the “Swingle,” a frozen key lime pie on a stick, and key lime tarts, perfect for individual servings. The desert is versatile, and possibilities are limited only by your imagination.
Miami has many restaurants and bakeries that serve delicious Key lime pie. Here are some Jack Davis’ favorite places where you can find some of the best Key lime pies in the city:
Joe’s Stone Crab is an iconic seafood restaurant in Miami Beach and is known for its classic Key lime pie. It’s often regarded as one of the best places to try this dessert.
Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop & Café is a bakery in Wynwood famous for its Key lime pie. They offer a variety of flavors, including a chocolate-dipped Key lime pie and a s’mores Key lime pie.
The Dutch at W South Beach serves a delicious, classic Key lime pie with a graham cracker crust, fresh whipped cream, and a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.
Whisk Gourmet Food & Catering located in South Miami, offers a Key lime pie with a toasted meringue topping that’s both creamy and tangy.
Icebox Café is a trendy restaurant in Miami Beach known for its extensive dessert menu. Their Key lime pie is a must-try, and they also offer variations like Key lime pie in a jar.
Knaus Berry Farm, while not in Miami, it is well worth the drive. They are famous for their cinnamon rolls but also serve a delicious Key lime pie during the season.
Blue Collar is a neighborhood gem that serves a scrumptious Key lime pie with a generous slice of pie on a plate and a scoop of whipped cream on top.
Pubbelly in Miami Beach or Brickell offers a Key lime pie with a unique twist serving it as an ice cream sandwich made with a graham cracker crust and Key lime ice cream.
Swine Southern Table & Bar, located in Coral Gables, serves a delightful and traditional Key lime pie that’s a great way to end a Southern meal.
Key Lime Pie reigns as one of the ultimate Miami desserts. It is a cool treat that can be especially refreshing as temperatures rise. Add to it the history that the dessert shares with our city, and it is a great taste for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the full Miami experience. Don’t forget, the irresistible combinations mean you can try the dessert again and again to find just the right way you like to enjoy it. Whether you are in a fine dining restaurant, beachfront cafe or small off-the-path experiences you will thank Jack Davis from Miami for this recommendation.