Low-Point Weight Watchers Key Lime Pie: A Healthy & Delicious Homemade Recipe

Prepare to experience a slice of pure delight with this incredible Weight Watchers Key Lime Pie recipe, crafted to deliver all the traditional flavor you love for just 4 points per slice! Unlike many other Weight Watchers Key Lime Pie variations that often rely on no-bake methods using Jell-O mix or Cool Whip, this recipe stands out. My goal was to create an authentic, from-scratch Key Lime Pie experience that tastes just like the classic, but with smart, healthy modifications.

This is a truly custardy Key Lime Pie, baked to perfection in the oven. The secret to its lighter profile, without compromising on richness, lies in innovative ingredient swaps. Instead of high-calorie condensed milk, I’ve expertly combined fat-free evaporated milk with a zero-calorie sweetener and cornstarch to achieve that perfect, thick consistency. The inclusion of real egg yolks is essential, imparting a luxurious, velvety texture and a depth of flavor that sets this pie apart. Every bite offers an exquisite harmony of light, creamy, and rich notes. The tartness of the key lime juice is perfectly balanced with the sweetness, creating a refreshing and satisfying dessert that isn’t overly sour. As it bakes, a delicate, sugary layer forms on the surface from the crystallizing sweetener, adding an extra touch of magic. This pie isn’t just a dessert; it’s a testament to mindful indulgence!

While this recipe might require a little patience and a careful hand, the effort is undeniably rewarding. The filling is gently cooked on the stovetop, demanding your full attention to maintain a low heat and constant stirring to prevent the egg yolks from curdling. This isn’t a recipe to rush; save it for a day when you can truly savor the baking process. Trust me, the moment you sink your teeth into this perfectly balanced, tangy, and sweet Key Lime Pie, you’ll agree that every minute was worth it. Not only will it become your new favorite Key Lime Pie recipe, but it’s also significantly healthier than your average traditional pie, making it a guilt-free pleasure you can enjoy anytime.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

It’s healthy and Weight Watchers friendly. This recipe offers a genuinely low-fat and low-calorie dessert experience, making it an ideal choice for anyone managing their intake without sacrificing flavor. With only 105 calories and a mere 2.1 grams of fat per slice, it perfectly fits into a healthy lifestyle or a Weight Watchers plan at just 4 points per serving. It’s the perfect solution for satisfying your sweet tooth in a mindful way, allowing you to indulge without guilt or derailing your progress.
It requires simple, accessible ingredients. You won’t need to hunt for obscure or expensive items to make this delicious pie. All the ingredients can be easily found at your local grocery store, making this recipe convenient and budget-friendly. Even if fresh key limes are hard to come by, don’t fret! You can absolutely use bottled key lime juice, just ensure it has no added sugar to keep the recipe true to its healthy intent.
Homemade is always better (and so rewarding!). There’s an unparalleled satisfaction that comes from creating something delicious from scratch. Beyond the joy of the process, making your own Key Lime Pie means you have complete control over the quality and types of ingredients used, ensuring a healthier and fresher end product. This homemade version tastes infinitely better than any store-bought alternative, offering a fresh, vibrant flavor and a superior texture that simply can’t be replicated.

Recipe Overview

Serving Size: 1 slice (105g)
Number of Servings: 8
Time to Cook: 1 hour
WW Points Per Recipe: 4 per serving, 34 for the entire recipe. (Click here to view the recipe in the WW app. WW login required)

Ingredients in Key Lime Pie

Crafting the perfect Key Lime Pie starts with selecting the right ingredients. For this healthy, Weight Watchers-friendly version, we focus on smart substitutions that maintain flavor and texture while significantly reducing calories and fat. Here’s what you’ll need to assemble this delightful dessert.

Key Lime Pie Filling

⅔ cup Key Lime juice (freshly squeezed for the best flavor, or a good quality bottled juice with no added sugar)
3 Egg yolks (these are crucial for the pie’s rich, custardy texture and vibrant color)
12 fl oz Fat-free evaporated milk (a fantastic, lighter alternative to traditional sweetened condensed milk, providing creaminess without the extra sugar and fat)
1 cup Zero-calorie sweetener (opt for a cup-for-cup sugar replacement like monk fruit powder or erythritol to achieve the perfect sweetness balance without the calories)
¾ tsp Vanilla extract (enhances the overall flavor profile, adding a subtle warmth)
½ cup Plain, unsweetened Almond milk (contributes to the liquid base without adding significant calories or sugars)
5 tbsp Cornstarch (this is the key thickening agent that helps achieve the desired custardy consistency when cooked with the other liquids)

Graham Cracker Crust

4.5 oz Low-fat graham cracker crumbs (the foundation of our pie, providing a classic crunchy base with fewer calories)
2 tbsp Zero-calorie sweetener (again, a cup-for-cup sugar replacement like monk fruit powder works best to sweeten the crust without adding extra points)
3-5 tbsp Unsweetened applesauce (a clever binder that replaces butter, keeping the crust low in fat while ensuring it holds together beautifully)

How to Make Key Lime Pie (Step by Step)

Creating this healthier Key Lime Pie is a delightful process that yields delicious results. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a perfectly baked, custardy pie with a satisfying graham cracker crust.

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Begin by preparing the crust. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the low-fat graham cracker crumbs, zero-calorie sweetener, and unsweetened applesauce. Start with three tablespoons of applesauce, mixing thoroughly. If the mixture still appears too dry and crumbly to hold together when pressed, gradually add one to two more tablespoons of applesauce until it binds easily without being overly wet or sticky.

2. Once your graham cracker mixture reaches the ideal consistency, firmly press it into a greased 8-inch or 9-inch pie dish. Ensure an even layer along the bottom and up the sides. Bake the crust for 10 to 15 minutes, or until it looks golden and feels firm and set to the touch. This par-baking step helps create a sturdy foundation for your filling.

3. While your crust is par-baking, turn your attention to the luscious filling. In a medium-sized pot, combine the vanilla extract, plain unsweetened almond milk, and fat-free evaporated milk. Heat this mixture gently over low heat, allowing it to warm up. Crucially, do not let it come to a boil; you simply want it warm enough to integrate with the other ingredients.

4. In a separate bowl, combine the lime zest and zero-calorie sweetener. Use your fingertips to massage the zest into the sweetener granules. This simple action helps to release the aromatic oils from the zest, infusing the sweetener with a more intense lime flavor. Next, add the cornstarch to this mixture and whisk thoroughly to ensure there are no lumps. Finally, whisk in the egg yolks and key lime juice to create a smooth, vibrant paste or slurry.

5. Once the milk mixture in the pot is hot (but not boiling), slowly pour the lime-egg yolk slurry into the pot while continuously whisking. This gradual addition and constant stirring are vital to temper the eggs and prevent them from curdling. Maintain the temperature at medium-low heat and continue to stir the mixture constantly. I highly recommend using a rubber spatula during this stage; its flexible edge can scrape along the bottom of the pan, preventing any parts from sticking and gelling too quickly. Remember, the mixture should never bubble; overheating will destroy the delicate custard. Cook for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the filling begins to visibly thicken. It should be thick enough to generously coat the back of a spoon, indicating it’s ready to set properly.

6. Remove the thickened filling from the heat and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. This brief pause helps it settle. Then, carefully pour the warm filling into your prepared and par-baked graham cracker crust. If you notice any small bubbles forming on the surface, gently pop them with a toothpick, or lightly tap the pie dish on your countertop a few times to release them. This ensures a smooth, beautiful finish.

7. Bake the pie for 25-30 minutes, checking its consistency towards the end of this period. The edges should appear mostly set, but the center may still have a slight jiggle. If the center still seems too wet or “sloshy,” reduce the oven temperature to 250°F (120°C) and continue baking for another 5-10 minutes. The goal is for the center to still jiggle slightly when gently shaken, but not slosh freely. For precise doneness, the internal temperature should reach 145ºF (63°C) when measured with a kitchen thermometer. It’s crucial that the pie does not brown during baking. Be extremely careful not to overbake, as this will result in a grainy, undesirable texture.

8. Once baked, allow the Key Lime Pie to cool completely to room temperature on a wire rack. This gradual cooling process is important for its structure. Only then should you transfer it to the refrigerator, allowing it to chill and firm up for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This pie develops its best texture and flavor when served on the same day it’s made, offering optimal creaminess and zing!

Variations and Substitutions

This Weight Watchers Key Lime Pie recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing for creative adaptations to suit your taste preferences or ingredient availability. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

Regular Limes: While true key limes offer a distinct, aromatic flavor, they can sometimes be hard to find. If key limes aren’t accessible, don’t hesitate to use regular limes, such as Persian limes. Be aware that the flavor profile will be slightly different—Persian limes are typically larger, less aromatic, and may yield a tangier, less complex taste than their key lime counterparts.
Key Lime Pie Bars: Transform this classic pie into convenient, portable dessert bars! While I haven’t personally tested this variation, the crust ingredients should comfortably fit into a 9×13 inch baking pan. Keep in mind that when spread into a larger, shallower pan, the filling will be thinner, and consequently, the baking time will be reduced. Keep a close eye on the bars as they bake, checking for doneness frequently to prevent overbaking.
Key Lime Pie with Meringue: For an elegant and visually stunning presentation, consider topping your Key Lime Pie with homemade meringue. This fluffy, sweet topping adds a delightful textural contrast and elevates the dessert for special occasions. You can either use a kitchen torch to beautifully brown the peaks of the meringue or place the pie in a 450°F (230°C) oven for just a few minutes, watching carefully to achieve a golden, toasted finish.
Sweetener vs Sugar: This recipe is specifically formulated to use a zero-calorie sweetener, primarily because of the substantial amount needed to balance the tartness of the lime juice. Traditional Key Lime Pie often uses sweetened condensed milk, which is very high in sugar. By using evaporated milk and a generous amount of zero-calorie sweetener, we maintain the sweetness without the added calories and Weight Watchers points. If you were to substitute granulated sugar for the zero-calorie sweetener, be prepared for a significant increase in Weight Watchers points, jumping to approximately 12 points per serving, which dramatically changes the healthy profile of this dessert.
Milk Type: Should you not have plain unsweetened almond milk on hand, you can confidently substitute skim milk. The recipe will turn out great with this alternative, maintaining its creamy texture and low-point status.
Topping Ideas: Beyond meringue, there are many delightful ways to garnish your Key Lime Pie for a beautiful presentation. A dollop of fat-free Cool Whip is a classic choice that keeps the Weight Watchers points low. Depending on your available points, you could also opt for a traditional, freshly whipped cream for a richer experience. For a simple yet elegant touch, consider garnishing your slices with thinly cut fresh lime slices or a sprinkle of vibrant lime zest.

Tips and Tricks for Making the Best Key Lime Pie

Achieving a perfectly custardy, low-point Key Lime Pie requires attention to a few key details. These tips and tricks will help you master the recipe and ensure delicious results every time:

Using med-low heat on the stovetop is absolutely crucial for the pie filling. Since this is a custard recipe and incorporates egg yolks, high heat is your enemy. If the heat is too high, you risk accidentally scrambling the eggs or causing the entire mixture to curdle, resulting in an undesirable texture. This is a recipe that demands a “low and slow” approach to cooking, allowing the custard to thicken gently and evenly without breaking.
If you find your graham cracker crust mixture to be overly sticky and difficult to press evenly into the pie pan, a simple trick is to place it in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes. The brief chill will firm up the mixture, making it much easier to handle, spread, and press into a uniform layer in your pie tin without sticking to your fingers.
The key lime filling should have the consistency of a thick gravy or a pourable pudding when you remove it from the stovetop. It is critically important that the filling is already significantly thickened *before* it goes into the oven. If the filling is too thin at this stage, it will not set properly during baking, potentially resulting in a runny pie even after chilling. Trust your stovetop cooking to do most of the work for the custard’s structure.
Allowing the pie ample time to set before slicing it is non-negotiable for the best presentation and texture. The chilling time in the refrigerator is essential for the custard to fully firm up, allowing for clean, beautiful slices. While this pie is truly at its peak and offers the best texture when enjoyed on the same day it’s made, any leftovers should be covered tightly and stored in the fridge. It will keep well for 3-4 days, though the crust might soften slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use bottled key lime juice instead of fresh?
Absolutely! While fresh key lime juice often provides the most vibrant flavor, good quality bottled key lime juice with no added sugar works perfectly well for this recipe. Just be sure to check the label to avoid any hidden sugars that would increase the Weight Watchers points.
Why does this recipe use fat-free evaporated milk instead of sweetened condensed milk?
Traditional Key Lime Pie recipes heavily rely on sweetened condensed milk for its creamy texture and intense sweetness. To make this pie Weight Watchers-friendly and lower in calories and fat, we replace it with fat-free evaporated milk and zero-calorie sweetener. This clever swap achieves a similar creamy, thick consistency and balanced sweetness without the added sugars and calories, helping to keep the point value low.
How can I prevent the custard from curdling on the stovetop?
Preventing curdling is key to a smooth, velvety filling. The most important tips are to maintain very low to medium-low heat, constantly stir the mixture with a whisk and a rubber spatula (to scrape the bottom), and slowly add the egg yolk mixture to the warm milk while continuing to whisk. Avoid boiling the mixture at all costs, as high heat will cook the eggs too quickly and cause them to curdle.
How long will this homemade Key Lime Pie last?
For the best taste and texture, this Key Lime Pie is ideal when served on the day it’s made. However, leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent it from absorbing other odors from the fridge and to maintain its freshness.

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Weight Watchers Key Lime Pie

2.50 from 2 votes

Key Lime Pie

Servings: 8 people

Prep: 20 minutes

Cook: 1 hour

Total: 1 hour 20 minutes

Indulge in this creamy and tangy Key Lime Pie, featuring a delightful graham cracker crust. It’s a healthy, low-point dessert perfect for Weight Watchers, offering all the classic flavor without the guilt.

Ingredients

Key Lime Pie Filling

▢ ⅔ cup Key Lime juice, freshly squeezed for best flavor, or bottled (no sugar added)
▢ 3 Egg yolks
▢ 12 oz Fat-free evaporated milk
▢ 1 cup Zero-calorie sweetener, use a cup-for-cup sugar replacement like monk fruit powder or erythritol
▢ ¾ tsp Vanilla extract
▢ ½ cup Plain, unsweetened Almond milk
▢ 5 tbsp Cornstarch

Graham Cracker Crust

▢ 4.5 oz Low-fat graham cracker crumbs
▢ 2 tbsp Zero-calorie sweetener, use a cup-for-cup sugar replacement like monk fruit powder
▢ 3-5 tbsp Unsweetened applesauce

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). To prepare the crust, combine the low-fat graham cracker crumbs, zero-calorie sweetener, and unsweetened applesauce in a large bowl. Begin with three tablespoons of applesauce and add one to two more tablespoons if necessary, until the mixture binds together easily without being dry or overly sticky.
Press the graham cracker crust mixture firmly and evenly into a greased 8-inch or 9-inch pie dish. Bake the crust for 10 to 15 minutes, or until it appears golden, firm, and set.
While the crust par-bakes, begin making the filling on the stovetop. In a pot, combine the vanilla extract, almond milk, and evaporated milk. Heat the mixture over low heat until it is warm, but ensure it does not boil.
In a separate bowl, combine the lime zest and sweetener, gently massaging the zest with the sweetener granules to extract the flavorful oils. Add the cornstarch and whisk to remove any lumps. Then, mix this sweetener and cornstarch blend with the egg yolks and key lime juice to form a smooth paste or slurry.
Once the milk mixture is hot, slowly add and whisk in the prepared slurry. Maintain the temperature at medium-low heat and stir the mixture constantly. Using a rubber spatula helps to scrape the bottom of the pan, preventing any gelling or curdling. (Important tip: The mixture should never bubble! Overheating will ruin the delicate custard.) Cook for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until it begins to visibly thicken. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
After removing the filling from the heat, let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes. Then, carefully pour the warm filling into the prepared graham cracker crust. Use a toothpick to gently pop any bubbles that form on the surface, or lightly tap the pan on your table to release them, ensuring a smooth finish.
Bake the pie for 25-30 minutes, then check for doneness. The edges should appear mostly set. If the center is still quite wet or “sloshy,” reduce the oven temperature to 250°F (120°C) and bake for another 5-10 minutes or so, until the center still slightly jiggles when gently shaken but is no longer liquid. When fully baked, the internal temperature should read 145ºF (63°C) with a kitchen thermometer, and there should be no browning. Be very careful not to overbake, as this will result in a grainy texture.
Allow the pie to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to firm up properly. This pie boasts its absolute best texture and flavor when served on the same day it’s prepared!

Notes

Enjoy this delightful Key Lime Pie guilt-free at just 4 Weight Watchers Points per serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 105gCalories: 105kcalCarbohydrates: 19gProtein: 4.3gFat: 2.1gSaturated Fat: 0.6gCholesterol: 69mgSodium: 84mgPotassium: 225mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 6.5gCalcium: 157mgIron: 0.4mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Course: Baking, Dessert

Tried this recipe?Mention @drizzlemeskinny or tag #drizzlemeskinny!

Embrace the joy of baking and healthy eating with this incredible Weight Watchers Key Lime Pie. It’s a delightful journey from start to finish, culminating in a dessert that proves healthy choices can be utterly delicious and satisfying. Enjoy your slice of guilt-free sunshine!