The quintessential dessert of the Florida Keys is a tart and creamy pie, celebrated for its unique flavor profile derived from the Key lime. This citrus fruit, smaller and more acidic than its Persian counterpart, lends a distinctive zest to the confection. It is a culinary staple inextricably linked to the region’s identity.
The appeal of this dessert lies in its refreshing taste, particularly welcome in the Keys’ tropical climate. Its history is intertwined with the availability of Key limes and condensed milk, a shelf-stable ingredient crucial in the pre-refrigeration era. The result is a treat that provides a tangible connection to the area’s past and embodies a specific sense of place.
