Name: Raw Chocolate-Coated Key Lime Pie
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 120 min
Total time: 150 min
Ingredients: 3/4 cup walnuts (provides a nutty flavor and a crunchy base.); 3/4 cup dates (natural sweetener that binds the crust together.); 1 1/2 tablespoons cacao powder (adds a rich chocolate flavor to the crust.); pinch sea salt (enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.); 1 1/2 large avocados (peeled and cored, creamy base for the filling.); 1 1/2 small bananas (peeled, adds natural sweetness and creaminess.); 1/4 cup key lime juice (provides the iconic tart flavor.); 1 tablespoon key lime zest (more zesty flavor that brightens the pie.); 1/2 teaspoon vanilla (rounds out the flavors beautifully.); 10 drops vanilla stevia (or to taste, optional for extra sweetness.); 1/2 recipe raw vegan chocolate (a decadent layer for coating the pie.); 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted, helps to set the chocolate and adds creaminess.); 2/3 cup cacao powder (for the chocolate coating, delivering a deep chocolate taste.); 4 tablespoons agave nectar/coconut nectar/maple syrup (for sweetness in the filling.); 1/3 cup coconut oil (melted, for richness in the chocolate coating.)

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s not only indulgent but also packed with wholesome ingredients, then this Raw Chocolate-Coated Key Lime Pie is your new best friend. It’s creamy, zesty, and has a rich chocolate coating that takes it over the top. This pie is a celebration of flavors and textures: the crunchy walnut crust, the smooth avocado filling, and the decadent layer of raw chocolate. Plus, it’s vegan and raw, making it a guilt-free treat that everyone will love!

Why It’s My Go-To

This Raw Chocolate-Coated Key Lime Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a testament to how healthy ingredients can create something truly special. The blend of creamy avocado and tart key lime juice offers a refreshing twist that’s perfect for any occasion. I love serving this at gatherings or simply enjoying a slice after dinner. It’s a crowd-pleaser that always garners compliments and requests for the recipe!

What’s in the Bowl

To create this delightful pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:

3/4 cup walnuts: These provide a nutty flavor and a crunchy base.
3/4 cup dates: A natural sweetener that binds the crust together.
1 1/2 tablespoons cacao powder: Adds a rich chocolate flavor to the crust.
Pinch sea salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
1/2 recipe of raw vegan chocolate: A decadent layer for coating the pie.
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted: Helps to set the chocolate and adds creaminess.
2/3 cup cacao powder: For the chocolate coating, delivering a deep chocolate taste.
4 tablespoons agave nectar/coconut nectar/maple syrup: For sweetness in the filling.
1 1/2 large avocados, peeled and cored: The creamy base for the filling.
1 1/2 small bananas, peeled: Adds natural sweetness and creaminess.
1/4 cup key lime juice: The star ingredient, providing the iconic tart flavor.
1 tablespoon key lime zest: More zesty flavor that brightens the pie.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla: Round out the flavors beautifully.
10 drops vanilla stevia or to taste: Optional, for extra sweetness.
1/3 cup coconut oil, melted: Again, for richness in the chocolate coating.

Gear Checklist

Before you get started, make sure you have the following tools handy:

Food Processor: To blend the crust and filling smoothly.
Mixing Bowl: For combining ingredients before assembly.
Pie Pan: A 9-inch pie pan works perfectly for this recipe.
Spatula: To help spread the filling evenly in the crust.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

The Method for Raw Chocolate-Coated Key Lime Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by combining the walnuts, dates, cacao powder, and a pinch of sea salt in your food processor. Pulse until the mixture is crumbly yet sticks together when pressed. If it’s too dry, add a few more dates.

Step 2: Form the Crust

Press the walnut mixture firmly into the bottom of your pie pan. Make sure it’s evenly distributed and compacted for a sturdy base. Set it aside to firm up while you make the filling.

Step 3: Blend the Filling

In a clean food processor, combine the avocados, bananas, key lime juice, key lime zest, vanilla, and sweetener of choice. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Pour the creamy filling over the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Place the pie in the freezer for at least 2 hours to set.

Step 5: Make the Raw Chocolate Coating

While the pie sets, prepare the raw chocolate. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, cacao powder, and sweetener until smooth. Adjust sweetness to your liking.

Step 6: Coat the Pie

Once the pie is set, carefully remove it from the freezer. Pour the raw chocolate over the top, ensuring it covers the entire surface. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

Return the pie to the freezer for another 30 minutes to an hour to allow the chocolate to harden. When ready to serve, slice the pie into wedges and enjoy!

Smart Substitutions

If you’re looking to customize this recipe, consider these options:

Nut Alternatives: Replace walnuts with pecans or almonds if you prefer.
Sweetener Swaps: Use honey or a different liquid sweetener instead of agave or maple syrup.
Cacao Powder: Carob powder can be used if you want a caffeine-free alternative.
Fruit Variations: Try using lime juice instead of key lime for a different flavor profile.

Things That Go Wrong

Even the best chefs encounter hiccups! Here are a few common issues and how to avoid them:

Crust Crumbling: Ensure the dates are soft and fresh. If your crust seems too dry, add a little water or more dates.
Filling Not Smooth: Blend thoroughly and scrape down the sides of the food processor to incorporate all ingredients.
Chocolate Not Setting: Make sure your coconut oil is fully melted and that your pie is in the freezer long enough.
Too Tart: Taste your filling before pouring and adjust the sweetness as needed.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

To keep your Raw Chocolate-Coated Key Lime Pie fresh and delicious, consider the following:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freeze: You can freeze slices for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Keep Covered: Always cover the pie to prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.

Handy Q&A

Can I use fresh limes instead of key limes?

Absolutely! Fresh limes will work just as well, but keep in mind they tend to be a bit more tart.

Is there a nut-free option for the crust?

Yes! You can substitute the walnuts with oats or use sunflower seeds for a nut-free crust.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes! This pie is perfect for making ahead. Just store it in the freezer until you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with this pie?

This pie pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, coconut whipped cream, or a drizzle of extra chocolate sauce for added indulgence.

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Ready to Cook?

Now that you’ve got all the details, it’s time to head into the kitchen and whip up this delicious Raw Chocolate-Coated Key Lime Pie. With its fresh ingredients and delightful flavor combination, it’s sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this stunning dessert that they’ll never know is healthy! Enjoy every creamy, zesty, chocolatey bite!