Key Lime Pie Lush – A No-Bake Tropical Dream!

This cool, creamy layered dessert combines all the tangy-sweet flavors of key lime pie with a buttery graham crust, velvety lime filling, and fluffy whipped topping. No oven needed—just pure, refreshing bliss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No-bake & easy – Perfect for hot summer days
Make-ahead friendly – Chill overnight for best results
Bright, balanced flavor – Tart lime + sweet creaminess
Crowd-pleasing – A guaranteed hit at potlucks

Ingredients & Substitutions

For the Crust

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 sheets)
  • 6 tbsp (85g) melted butter
  • 2 tbsp sugar (optional)

For the Lime Layer

  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • ½ cup key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
  • 1 tbsp lime zest
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping

  • 2 cups whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream)
  • Extra lime zest/slices for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Crust

  1. Mix graham crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
  2. Press firmly into a 9×9-inch dish. Chill 15 minutes.

2. Prepare Lime Filling

  1. Beat cream cheese until smooth.
  2. Gradually mix in condensed milk, lime juice, zest, and vanilla.
  3. Spread over chilled crust.

3. Add Whipped Topping

  1. Gently spread whipped topping over lime layer.
  2. Garnish with lime zest/slices.

4. Chill & Serve

  • Refrigerate at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
  • Cut into squares and enjoy cold!

Pro Tips

🍈 Authentic flavor: Use Nellie & Joe’s key lime juice if possible.
🍋 Extra tartness: Add 1 more tbsp lime juice.
🔥 Quick crust: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8 mins for extra crispiness.

Variations

🥥 Tropical twist: Add ½ cup toasted coconut to the crust.
🍓 Berry swirl: Layer with strawberry puree before topping.
🍫 Chocolate-dipped: Drizzle with melted white chocolate.

FAQs

Can I use regular limes?

Yes, but key limes have a distinct floral tartness.

How long does it keep?

Fridge for 4 days (cover tightly).

Can I freeze it?

Yes! Freeze without topping for up to 1 month.

Final Thoughts

This Key Lime Pie Lush is summer in every bite—creamy, citrusy, and impossible to resist. Perfect for picnics, BBQs, or when you need a taste of the tropics!

Pro tip: Serve in mini mason jars for a cute presentation! 🍋🌴

(Tag your creations #KeyLimeLush!)

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