Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust

Introduction to Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust

As a busy mom, I know the joy of a dessert that’s both simple and impressive. That’s where these Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust come in! They’re a delightful twist on a classic, transforming the tangy essence of key lime pie into a fun roll that your family will adore.

Whether it’s a Sunday dinner or just a treat after a long week, these rolls are the perfect way to brighten your day. Let’s create something scrumptious that’s sure to steal the show at your next family gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust

If you’re short on time but still want an irresistible dessert, these Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust are your best friend! They whip up quickly, yet taste like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. Plus, the vibrant zing of key lime pairs beautifully with the crunchy graham cracker crust, making each bite a delicious escape. Perfect for busy families or any sweet craving!

Ingredients for Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust

Gathering the ingredients for these Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust is half the fun! Below is a list of what you’ll need:

• Sweetened condensed milk: This rich base adds sweetness and creaminess to the filling.
• Egg yolks: These help thicken the filling, creating that signature key lime pie texture.
• Key lime juice: Fresh or bottled, this is the zesty star that brings bright flavor.
• Zest of key limes: For added citrus aroma, this brings the essence of key limes into the rolls.
• Fine sea salt: Just a pinch enhances all the sweet flavors and balances the tartness.
• Brown sugar: Packed for deeper flavor, it complements the tangy filling beautifully.
• Unsalted butter: This adds richness; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that adds a lovely hint of sweetness to the filling.
• Crushed graham cracker crumbs: Essential for the delicious crust and sprinkle of flavor.
• Water: Needed for the tangzhong, ensuring moisture and softness in the dough.
• Bread flour: This helps create that soft, fluffy texture in your rolls.
• Granulated sugar: For just the right hint of sweetness in the dough mix.
• Instant yeast: This will make the dough rise quickly and effortlessly.
• Heavy cream: Adds a touch of indulgence to the dough.
• Whole milk: For richness; room temperature makes mixing a breeze.
• Egg: An additional egg ties the dough together, ensuring it’s light and airy.
• Vanilla bean paste: A luxurious addition for depth in flavor.
• Tangzhong: A special technique that enhances dough texture and moisture.
• More unsalted butter: For the filling, it adds body and helps achieve the perfect spread.
• Graham crackers: Essential for the crust and topping; always a favorite!
• Cream cheese: This creamy frosting adds a delightful finish to your rolls.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting for that smooth, luscious texture.
• Remaining key lime filling: Whatever you have left from step one adds punch to the frosting.

Exact quantities can be found at the bottom of the article for your convenience and printing!

How to Make Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust

Step 1: Make the Key Lime Pie Filling

To kick off this delightful journey, grab a saucepan and whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, key lime juice, zest, and salt. This step is crucial, as you need to cook this mixture over medium-low heat until it reaches 175°F. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while thickening up. Once it’s lovely and velvety, chill it in the fridge. Trust me, this filling is the heart of your Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust.

Step 2: Make the Tangzhong

The tangzhong might sound fancy, but it’s simply a cooked paste that’s a game-changer for your dough. In a small saucepan, whisk together water and bread flour until thick. Cook it over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes, stirring constantly until you see a smooth paste form. This special technique not only enhances the rolls’ texture, making them soft and fluffy, but it also helps keep them that way for days to come. Definitely worth the effort!

Step 3: Prepare the Dough

Now, let’s mix the dough! Using a stand mixer, combine the bread flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt. Then, add in the heavy cream, whole milk, egg, vanilla, and that glorious tangzhong you made earlier. Knead the mixture on medium speed until a rough dough forms. This part is essential; knead for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. When you can stretch it without tearing, you know it’s ready for the next step. Feel that dough come to life!

Step 4: Create the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

While that dough rests, let’s whip up the cinnamon sugar filling. In a bowl, mix the brown sugar, softened butter, and ground cinnamon until it’s all well blended. This combination adds a sweet warmth that will be the surprise inside your rolls. Make sure every bite is flavorful! It’s the perfect balance to the bright key lime filling, creating a delightful contrast in each roll. You’re going to love how these flavors dance together!

Step 5: Assemble the Rolls

Time to bring it all together! Start by rolling out your rested dough into a large rectangle. Spread the cinnamon sugar filling evenly across the dough. Then, dollop spoonfuls of your chilled key lime filling on top, followed by a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers. Cut the dough into strips, then roll each strip tightly, making sure it’s snug. Place the rolls seam-side down in a prepared 9×13 baking pan lined with graham crackers. Each roll will become a little treasure of flavor!

Step 6: Rise and Bake the Rolls

Cover your pan and let the rolls rise for about 1-2 hours until they’re puffy and oh-so-inviting. While they rise, preheat your oven to 325°F (162°C). Once they’ve puffed up beautifully, pop them into the oven. Bake these sweet delights for 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the center rolls hits 185°F. Keep an eye on them; they should be golden brown and smell amazing!

Step 7: Make the Frosting

After your rolls are baked to perfection, it’s frosting time! In a mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature cream cheese with powdered sugar and the remaining key lime filling. Blend it until smooth and creamy. This frosting is more than just a topping; it’s a finishing touch that adds indulgence to each roll. Spoon this delicious creamy goodness over the warm rolls and sprinkle with more graham cracker crumbs for that perfect presentation. Your Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust are now ready to shine!

Tips for Success

• Always ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for easy blending.
• Measure flour using the spoon-and-level method to avoid heavy rolls.
• Chill the key lime filling long enough for easy spreading.
• Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for best results.
• Adjust baking time based on your oven for perfect browning.

Equipment Needed

• Stand mixer: A great tool for kneading, but a simple mixing bowl and spoon work too.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient amounts.
• 9×13 baking pan: Needed for those delicious rolls; a similar size will do.
• Pastry brush: Handy for spreading fillings, but you can use a spoon in a pinch.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing, but a fork can also work just fine!

Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute bread flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for delicious gluten-free Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust.
• Coconut Twist: Add shredded coconut to the cinnamon sugar filling for a tropical flair that pairs brilliantly with key lime.
• Berry Surprise: Incorporate fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries into the key lime filling for an added burst of flavor.
• Dairy-Free Version: Swap heavy cream and butter with your favorite plant-based alternatives to create a dairy-free treat without losing flavor.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the frosting for a decadent chocolatey touch that compliments the lime beautifully.

Serving Suggestions for Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust

• Pair with Fresh Berries: Serve alongside strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
• Ice Cream Delight: A scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream adds creamy richness to the bright flavors.
• Classic Beverage: Enjoy with iced tea or lemonade to enhance the citrusy zing.
• Presentation Tip: Dust with extra powdered sugar and a sprinkle of lime zest for a stunning finish!

FAQs about Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust

Can I make these Key Lime Pie Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate them overnight. Just let them come to room temperature and rise for about 30 minutes before baking. This is a lifesaver for busy days!

What if I can’t find key limes?

No worries! Regular limes work just fine in this recipe. The flavor might be slightly different but still deliciously zesty. Your Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust will still shine bright!

How can I store leftover rolls?

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them well, so they don’t lose their delightful freshness!

Can I skip the frosting?

While the cream cheese frosting adds a lovely finishing touch, you can certainly enjoy these rolls plain. They’re delicious on their own with a burst of key lime flavor, especially if you prefer something lighter.

What’s a good drink pairing with these rolls?

I recommend pairing your rolls with a refreshing iced tea or a sparkling lemonade. Both complement the tangy lime flavor beautifully and keep the mood light and breezy!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about creating Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust. They bring joy, color, and zest to any gathering! The blend of tangy and sweet fills your kitchen with warmth, while the delightful texture keeps everyone coming back for more.

Whether you’re bustling through a busy week or celebrating a family get-together, these rolls are a surefire hit. Each bite feels like a genuine little hug, reminding us that food is about connection. Let’s savor these moments and create sweet memories together, one roll at a time!

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