No-Bake Mini Key Lime Pies are the perfect combination of creamy, tangy filling and a buttery graham cracker crust. These individual-sized treats are simple to make, require no oven time, and are ideal for parties, picnics, or anytime you crave a refreshing dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No oven required – perfect for warm weather or when you’re short on time.
- Tangy, creamy, and perfectly balanced with a sweet graham cracker crust.
- Easy to make ahead for gatherings or as a grab-and-go dessert.
- Customizable with different toppings like whipped cream, lime zest, or fruit.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Crust:
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Granulated sugar
- Unsalted butter, melted
For the Key Lime Filling:
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Cream cheese, softened
- Fresh key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
- Key lime zest
- Whipped cream (for garnish)
- Optional: lime slices or additional zest for topping
Directions
- Prepare the crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottoms of mini pie tins, ramekins, or a muffin tin lined with cupcake liners. Chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, and zest, and mix until creamy and well combined.
- Assemble the pies: Spoon the lime filling onto the chilled crusts, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
- Chill: Refrigerate the mini pies for at least 2–3 hours, or until the filling is firm and set.
- Garnish and serve: Top each mini pie with whipped cream, lime zest, or a small lime slice before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes about 8 mini pies
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2–3 hours
Variations
- Coconut crust: Add shredded coconut to the graham cracker crust for a tropical twist.
- Chocolate twist: Drizzle the top with melted chocolate for an extra layer of indulgence.
- Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
- Berry topping: Garnish with fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries for a fruity contrast.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap each mini pie tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: These pies are best served cold and do not require reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
Yes, regular limes work well as a substitute and still provide a deliciously tangy flavor.
2. Can I make these pies in a single large pan instead?
Absolutely! Use a 9-inch pie dish for a full-sized version and adjust chilling time as needed.
3. How do I make the crust stick together?
Ensure the butter is evenly distributed and press the mixture firmly into the pans to help it hold its shape.
4. What’s the best way to zest limes?
Use a microplane or fine grater to zest only the outer green layer, avoiding the bitter white pith.
5. Can I use a store-bought crust?
Yes, pre-made graham cracker crusts are a convenient option for this recipe.
6. How do I get smooth filling?
Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing for a creamy texture.
7. Can I use low-fat ingredients?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk can be used, but the texture may be slightly less rich.
8. What toppings work best?
Whipped cream, lime zest, lime slices, or crushed graham crackers are all excellent choices.
9. How long can I store these pies?
They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making them great for prepping ahead.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Certainly! Double the ingredients for a larger batch, especially if serving a crowd.
Conclusion
No-Bake Mini Key Lime Pies are a simple yet elegant dessert that delivers big flavor without the need for baking. Their creamy, tangy filling paired with the sweet graham cracker crust is a crowd-pleasing combination. Whip up a batch today for a refreshing and fuss-free treat that’s sure to impress!
Print
No-Bake Mini Key Lime Pies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2–3 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 mini pies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Description
These no-bake mini key lime pies are creamy, tangy, and perfect for summer. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a luscious key lime filling, they’re quick and easy to make, requiring no oven time!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups (180 g) graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup (75 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Filling:
- 1 can (14 oz/400 g) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) fresh key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
For Garnish:
- Lime slices or zest (optional)
- Whipped cream
Instructions
Prepare the Crust:
- Mix the Crust Ingredients:
In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand. - Form the Crusts:
Press the mixture into the bottoms and up the sides of 6–8 mini tart pans or a muffin tin lined with cupcake liners. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to compact it tightly. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.
Make the Filling:
- Whisk the Key Lime Base:
In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, and lime zest until smooth. - Whip the Cream:
In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Fold half of the whipped cream into the key lime mixture to lighten it, then gently fold in the rest.
Assemble the Pies:
- Fill the Crusts:
Spoon the key lime filling into the prepared crusts, smoothing the tops with a spatula. - Chill:
Refrigerate the mini pies for at least 2–3 hours, or until set.
Garnish and Serve:
- Decorate:
Top each pie with a dollop of whipped cream, a slice of lime, or a sprinkle of lime zest before serving.
Notes
- For a stronger lime flavor, increase the lime zest by 1 teaspoon.
- These mini pies can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free graham crackers.