national key lime pie day day Key Lime Pie at Hurricane Hanks

National Key Lime Pie Day This Friday

September 21, 2025

National Key Lime Pie Day at Hurricane Hanks: Celebrate September 26th in Delicious Style

national key lime pie day day Key Lime Pie at Hurricane Hanks This Friday, September 26th, 2025 marks National Key Lime Pie Day, a celebration of one of Florida’s most iconic desserts. Few treats capture the essence of the Sunshine State like a slice of creamy, tangy Key Lime Pie, and there’s no better place to indulge than Hurricane Hanks Restaurant on Anna Maria Island. With its scratch kitchen dedication and carefully crafted recipes, Hurricane Hanks serves up Key Lime Pie that’s as refreshing as a Gulf breeze after a day on Holmes Beach.

The History of Key Lime Pie

Key Lime Pie has roots that go back more than a century. The dessert is believed to have originated in the Florida Keys in the late 1800s, where Key limes—smaller and more aromatic than the standard Persian lime—were abundant. Early Floridians made the pie with simple ingredients: sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and Key lime juice, all poured into a graham cracker or pastry crust. What made this recipe unique was its reliance on condensed milk, a pantry staple before widespread refrigeration.

By the mid-20th century, Key Lime Pie had become synonymous with Florida tourism. Visitors flocked to roadside diners and seaside cafes to try the dessert, often pairing it with a tall glass of iced tea. In 2006, the Florida legislature even declared Key Lime Pie the official state pie, cementing its legacy as more than just a regional treat—it’s part of Florida’s cultural identity.

The Ever-Growing Popularity of Key Lime Pie

Over time, the pie has transcended Florida’s borders, becoming a beloved dessert across the United States and beyond. Its appeal lies in its perfect balance: the tart citrus zing of the Key lime contrasted with the silky sweetness of the filling, all supported by a crunchy crust. This harmony of flavors has kept the pie timeless, appealing to generations of dessert lovers.

Today, you’ll find Key Lime Pie in upscale restaurants, casual diners, grocery store freezers, and food festivals. Creative chefs have even reimagined it into cheesecakes, cupcakes, and frozen popsicles. Despite these modern twists, the classic version remains king. And at Hurricane Hanks, they stick to what makes this pie so universally cherished—fresh, tangy flavor and just the right amount of sweetness.

Key Lime Pie at Hurricane Hanks Restaurant

At Hurricane Hanks, the Key Lime Pie is more than a dessert—it’s a tradition. Crafted with care, it reflects the restaurant’s dedication to fresh, flavorful dishes that capture the spirit of Anna Maria Island. Each slice delivers the signature tartness of Key lime balanced with creamy texture, finished in a crust that provides a satisfying crunch with every bite. It’s the perfect sweet ending to any meal, whether you’re visiting for lunch, dinner, or just drinks with friends.

On National Key Lime Pie Day, there’s no better excuse to order a slice (or two) and savor the taste of Florida’s favorite dessert in the heart of Holmes Beach.

Perfect Drink Pairings with Key Lime Pie at Hurricane Hanks

No dessert experience is complete without the perfect drink pairing. At Hurricane Hanks, their extensive drink menu offers several refreshing options to complement the bright, citrusy notes of the Key Lime Pie. Here are a few recommended pairings you can enjoy:

1. AMI Mojito

The AMI Mojito is a natural match for Key Lime Pie. With its blend of rum, fresh mint, lime, and soda water, this cocktail enhances the citrus profile of the dessert while the mint adds a refreshing twist. It’s like enjoying a slice of paradise in a glass alongside your pie.

2. Rum Runner

For something bolder, the Rum Runner offers a tropical punch of rum, banana liqueur, and berry flavors. The sweetness of the cocktail plays beautifully against the tart Key Lime Pie, creating a harmony of island-inspired flavors.

3. Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc

If you’re in the mood for wine, a crisp white like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc from Hurricane Hanks’ wine list is ideal. Both offer bright acidity that mirrors the pie’s citrus notes while cleansing the palate between bites.

4. Craft Beer Pairings

Hurricane Hanks is also known for its excellent selection of beers. A light, citrus-forward wheat beer or a crisp lager pairs wonderfully with the tang of the pie. The effervescence of beer adds a refreshing balance to the creamy filling.

Why Celebrate National Key Lime Pie Day at Hurricane Hanks?

National Key Lime Pie Day is about more than just enjoying dessert—it’s about celebrating a piece of Florida’s culinary history. At Hurricane Hanks, you’ll find the perfect setting to honor the occasion. Whether you’re a local or visiting Anna Maria Island, dining at Hurricane Hanks means enjoying the warm hospitality, fresh flavors, and inviting atmosphere that make the restaurant a favorite among regulars and tourists alike.

Their scratch kitchen approach ensures authenticity, and the pie is made to satisfy both traditionalists and newcomers. Pair that with a handcrafted cocktail or crisp wine, and you’ve got a celebration that captures the best of Florida’s flavors and culture.

Key Lime Pie and the Florida Lifestyle

Beyond its taste, Key Lime Pie represents the essence of Florida living: relaxed, sunny, and a little bit indulgent. It’s a reminder of seaside afternoons, fishing trips, and sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico. Eating a slice at Hurricane Hanks is about more than dessert—it’s about savoring the island lifestyle that makes Anna Maria a destination in itself.

Plan Your Visit to Hurricane Hanks This Friday

This September 26th, celebrate National Key Lime Pie Day at Hurricane Hanks. Bring your family, your friends, or just your sweet tooth, and indulge in a dessert that’s as iconic as the island itself. Don’t forget to order one of the recommended pairings from their drink menu to make the experience unforgettable.

And while you’re there, explore the rest of the menu—Hurricane Hanks is known for its hearty entrees, fresh seafood, and inviting atmosphere. But whatever you do, make sure you leave room for Key Lime Pie. After all, this is the dessert Florida made famous, and Hurricane Hanks makes it shine.

External Resources on Key Lime Pie

Conclusion: A Slice of Sunshine at Hurricane Hanks

National Key Lime Pie Day is the perfect chance to indulge in one of Florida’s most beloved desserts, and there’s no better place than Hurricane Hanks Restaurant. With its rich history, refreshing flavors, and perfect drink pairings, the Key Lime Pie here is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. This Friday, treat yourself to a slice and celebrate Florida’s sweetest holiday in true Anna Maria Island style.