Easy No-Bake Mini Key Lime Pie Recipe – Creamy, Tangy & Irresistible
When it comes to desserts that are refreshing, creamy, and full of flavor, nothing beats a Key Lime Pie. And the best part? You don’t even need to turn on your oven for this recipe! This easy no-bake mini Key Lime Pie recipe is perfect for hot summer days, quick desserts, or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Made with a crunchy graham cracker crust, a tangy-sweet key lime filling, and topped with fluffy whipped cream, these mini pies are bite-sized perfection. They’re simple, foolproof, and bursting with citrusy goodness.
Ingredients (Makes 12 Mini Pies)
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 crackers)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp melted unsalted butter
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup fresh key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
- 1 tbsp lime zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- Extra lime zest or thin lime slices (for garnish)
Step by Step Cooking Guide
- Prepare the crust – In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
- Assemble crusts – Spoon 1–2 tablespoons of the mixture into each muffin cup (lined with paper liners). Press firmly with the back of a spoon to create a compact crust. Chill in the fridge for 10 minutes.
- Make the filling – In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until creamy and well combined.
- Fill the crusts – Spoon or pipe the lime mixture over the chilled crusts, filling each cup almost to the top.
- Chill – Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, or until set.
- Make whipped topping – Beat heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
- Garnish – Top each mini pie with whipped cream and a sprinkle of lime zest. Add a small lime wedge for presentation.
- Serve & enjoy!
Cooking Time & Serving Size
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 2–3 hours
- Total Time: ~3 hours 15 minutes
- Serving Size: 12 mini pies
Tips & Variations
- Crust swaps: Try crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or Oreos for a fun twist.
- Extra tangy: Add more lime juice for a bolder citrus kick.
- Individual jars: Layer crust and filling in small mason jars for a no-mess party treat.
- Coconut twist: Add 2 tbsp shredded coconut to the crust for tropical flavor.
- Frozen option: Freeze pies for a few hours to make them more like an ice-cream dessert.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 240 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 13 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 20 g |
Healthy Alternatives
- Sugar-Free: Use sugar-free condensed milk and erythritol instead of sugar.
- Gluten-Free: Swap graham crackers with gluten-free cookies.
- Low-Fat: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping.
- Keto-Friendly: Make the crust with almond flour + butter, and use a keto-friendly sweetener.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of cream cheese and whipped cream, with vegan condensed milk.
Serving Suggestions
These easy no-bake mini Key Lime Pies are the perfect make-ahead dessert for parties, BBQs, picnics, or just a sweet treat at home. Serve them chilled with a fresh lime wedge or a sprinkle of zest for extra brightness.
They’re light, creamy, tangy, and so refreshing—guaranteed to be a crowd favorite!
FAQ’s
Q1: Can I make these mini pies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare them up to 2 days in advance. Just keep them refrigerated until serving.
Q2: Can I freeze no-bake Key Lime Pies?
Absolutely. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
Q3: Do I need real Key Limes?
No. Regular limes (Persian limes) work well too, though Key Limes have a slightly more intense flavor.
Q4: Can I make this into one large pie instead of mini pies?
Yes! Simply press the crust into a 9-inch pie dish and chill before adding the filling.
Q5: How long will leftovers last?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, they’ll stay fresh for 3–4 days.
