Key Lime Pie {Raw, Vegan + Gluten Free}
When we think about the delightful desserts of each season, certain flavors always come to mind: strawberry rhubarb pie in mid-summer, colorful cobblers in the fall, perfect pumpkin treats all winter long, and as the weather warms up in early spring and summer… Key Lime Pie! The silky texture, zesty lime, and invigorating taste of sunshine make this classic dessert one of our all-time favorites.
While most vegan versions of key lime pie rely on creamy cashews (which we adore), this recipe, inspired by Cafe Gratitude, introduces fresh, creamy avocados for a unique twist that does not disappoint!
KEY LIME PIE {RAW, VEGAN + GLUTEN FREE}
MAKES ONE 9 INCH PIE OR 12 BARS IN AN 8 X 8 PAN
FOR THE MAC NUT CRUST:
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1 cup raw macadamia nuts
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1 cup raw pecans
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1/2 cup raw soaked cashews
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1 cup raw shredded coconut (unsweetened)
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 teaspoon pink Himalayan sea salt
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2 tablespoons maple syrup
FOR THE FILLING:
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1 cup mashed avocados
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1 cup cashews soaked
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1 cup fresh lime juice (about 8 limes)
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3/4 cup maple syrup
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2/3 cup coconut milk (full fat in a can, omit the liquid)
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1/2 tsp pink Himilayan sea salt
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1/2 tsp vanilla extract
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1 cup coconut oil (melted and cooled)
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1 T lime zest
INSTRUCTIONS:
FOR THE CRUST:
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In a food processor pulse the macadamia nuts, pecans, cashews, coconut, cinnamon and salt until finely ground. Do not over process.
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Drizzle in the maple syrup and vanilla and pulse until the mixture comes together with gentle pressure.
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Lightly oil a 9 inch pie pan or 8 x 8 inch square pan with coconut oil. Use moist hands to press the crust into the bottom and up the sides. Evenly distribute and chill in freezer while you make the filling.
FOR THE FILLING:
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In a blender combine the avocados, cashews, lime juice, maple syrup, coconut milk, salt, vanilla and blend until smooth and creamy. Add the coconut oil and continue blending until complete smooth. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides as you go.
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Pour the key lime filling into the prepared crust. Top with zest. Refrigerate the pie for at least one hour, or until the filling is firm and set.
FOR SERVING: (OPTIONAL)
Top with whipped coconut cream, lime slices, or toasted coconut and mac nuts.
Keep covered and refrigerated for up to 5 days.