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
- Mix graham crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
- Press firmly into a 9×9-inch dish. Chill 15 minutes.
2. Prepare Lime Filling
- Beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually mix in condensed milk, lime juice, zest, and vanilla.
- Spread over chilled crust.
3. Add Whipped Topping
- Gently spread whipped topping over lime layer.
- 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!)