Despite the fact that Starbucks is insisting that it be autumn in your mouth (Pumpkin Spice Lattes already?!), there are in fact three weeks left of summer. The time is now to do all of the wonderful summery things you may have been putting off—read a book at the beach, have a water balloon fight, eat barbecue until you can barely stand. And one more thing: make this recipe. It’s the perfect summer treat—tart and sweet, light and creamy.

Every time I make this pie, people gush. No exaggeration—this pie has changed my life. This pie transforms scowls into smiles. This pie turns strangers into friends and friends into lovers. So, what are you waiting for? Tie on your apron. This could be the summer you never forget.

Life-Changing Key Lime Pie

Prep Time: 10-15 minutes if you have a citrus squeezer and use a pre-made crust
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Yield: 1 gorgeous pie

Ingredients:
1 cup crushed graham crackers, or 1 pre-made 9-in. graham cracker pie crust
4 egg yolks
½ cup fresh key lime juice (approx. 10 key limes)
1 14-oz can sweetened condensed milk

Tips:

• The quickest and easiest option is to use a pre-made pie shell. When it comes to crusts, I’d usually advise against store-bought, but in this case, it’s fine. There’s no shame in a good shortcut!
• Invest in a heavy-duty citrus squeezer! My friend Mercedes got me the amazing squeezer pictured below, and it has saved so much time and hassle. Best gift I’ve received in a long time! (Thanks, M!)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 325F. If making your own crust, spread graham cracker crumbs in the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan. Wet with a little water and press crumbs firmly into pie shell to form a crust.
2. In a large bowl, using a hand-held mixer, whip egg yolks and lime juice on high until doubled in size and lemon yellow in color. Add condensed milk and mix on low speed until combined. Don’t over mix!
3. Pour into prepared pie shell. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until center of pie is almost set. Let cool and refrigerate before serving.
4. Enjoy your creation and your new-found friends!