Key Lime Pie Martini Recipe

The next time you're craving a slice of Key lime pie, you don't have to go through all of the labor of making one from scratch; you can whip up a quick Key lime pie martini instead! According to recipe developer Jessica Morone, "This is the perfect summer cocktail. It's light, refreshing, and really fun."

Featuring a graham cracker rim and vanilla, lime, and coconut flavors in the cocktail itself, this beverage really is reminiscent of the iconic Key lime pie – while some martinis taste quite strongly of vodka, this one has a much sweeter profile. Unlike the classic dessert, though, you can throw one together much more quickly than you could a whole pie.

Morone says, "It's so easy to make, but everyone will be impressed when you make them at your get-togethers this summer." 

And as a cocktail and dessert all in one, it's safe to assume that your guests will be not only impressed, but asking for the recipe by the end of the night.

There are two types of liquor that go into this martini: coconut rum and vanilla vodka. Morone says, "I love putting vanilla vodka in cocktails rather than just regular vodka, it makes the flavor a little more mellow and sweeter." You'll also need simple syrup, Key lime juice, and a can of cream of coconut. Don't mistake (or substitute) cream of coconut for coconut milk; they are two different products with very different consistencies.

For the rim, which provides the classic Key lime pie "crust," you'll need crushed-up graham crackers and a bit more lime juice. Finally, feel free to garnish the cocktail with a lime wedge for added aesthetic. 

Grab a small shallow bowl and add in a small squeeze of lime juice, then grab a separate plate and sprinkle on the graham cracker crumbs. Tip the martini glass over and dunk the rim into the lime juice first, and then dunk it into the graham cracker crumbs. Make sure you get an even coating of crumbs around the rim, then set the glass aside.

Add a good handful of ice to your cocktail shaker (fill it about halfway), then add in the vanilla vodka, coconut rum, Key lime juice, simple syrup, and cream of coconut. Pop on the lid and shake until all ingredients are combined and the shaker has a nice chill to it. Then, strain the cocktail out into your prepared glass. 

Once you've filled up your martini glass, add a lime slice or wedge on the rim, and enjoy! "You could really serve this all year, but I think its best for an outdoor party, like a summer BBQ, or sipping it poolside," Morone says. 

There's something particularly summery about the refreshing lime and coconut flavors, though if you're an avid Key lime pie lover, you may want to keep this cocktail recipe in your rotation year-round — Key lime pie martinis at Christmas, why not? We're not going to stop you!