Indulge in Florida’s Best Winter Treat: Deep-Fried Key Lime Pie

Key lime pie is ubiquitous in Florida; nearly every region of the Sunshine State offers this perfect dessert. Crafted with egg yolks, condensed milk, key lime juice, and zest, which is then held together by a delightful graham cracker crust, it's a wonderful blend of tangy and sweet. And it all centers around the key lime: a version of the citrus that's yellow, smaller, and more acidic than the more common limes.

It's widely believed that key lime pie originated in Florida's Key West when early settlers used ingredients that didn't require refrigeration. Other stories indicate that key lime pie was created as a way to sell more condensed milk. The exact origins of the pie may be obscured by history, but one thing remains true: Floridians have embraced and perfected this dessert. For proof of this, look no further than what we consider to be the ultimate winter treat: deep-fried key lime pie.

Some may argue that key lime pie is a dessert that needs no improvement, and frankly, it's hard to argue otherwise. A visit to some of the region's famous restaurants and cafes like Blue Heaven, Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory, Midway Cafe and Coffee Bar, Kermit's Key Lime Shop, and countless others, proves that key lime pie is a delicacy.

In true Florida fashion, however, the traditional pie isn't the only way to enjoy this melt-in-your-mouth creation. There are countless pie-inspired dishes, ranging from key lime pie ice cream to our favorite this time of year: deep-fried. At first glance, it may seem like this dessert could be too indulgent. Does a sweet citrus pie with a crumbly crust and a dollop of whipped cream really need to be submerged in a fryer?

You may just have to venture to the Florida Keys and do some research for yourself. There are a handful of businesses that specialize in deep-fried key lime pies, perhaps the most famous of which is Porky's Bayside BBQ. Guests rave about the food and atmosphere here, but it's the dessert that really shines. As one reviewer shared, "Make sure you try the deep-fried key lime pie. It made the whole meal."

Have you ever tried deep-fried key lime pie? If you haven't, be sure to make your way to a restaurant with this delicacy nearby. You won't regret it! And if you're looking for more things to do (or eat!) when you're in the area, check out our itinerary planner for recommendations!