What sets the much-loved key lime pie offered by Publix’s in-store bakery apart from other ones is a ring of thinly sliced toasted almonds lining its perimeter atop whipped cream.

Though a stray from traditional key lime pie recipes, the almonds complement the crumbly crust and the cool custard by providing a crunch and savoriness to its tangy, creamy taste.

Taking a page from Publix’s book can also help elevate your homemade key lime pie. Once you’re nearly ready to serve your pie, toast some pre-sliced almonds until lightly browned.

After toasting them for a few minutes while ensuring they don’t burn, sprinkle them around the outer edges of the crust, atop the whipped cream or meringue, or over the entire pie.

Note that you can achieve the same nutty, crunchy bite and texture with other options, like macadamia nuts, pecans, and cashews. Keep experimenting to find what works best for you.