These adorable no-bake mini key lime pies are a perfect treat! With a creamy lime filling on a crunchy graham cracker crust, they are easy and super refreshing.
I love how quick they come together—just mix the filling, spoon it into crusts, and chill. They’re perfect for warm days or when you need a sweet pick-me-up! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Crackers: These are essential for the crust. If you can’t find graham crackers, try using digestive biscuits or even crushed vanilla wafers for a different flavor.
Key Lime Juice: Fresh key limes give the best flavor, but you can substitute them with regular lime juice if needed. I often use a mixture of both for added zest!
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese is crucial for that creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt, though it may change the flavor a bit. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing!
Heavy Whipping Cream: This creates the light and fluffy topping. If you want a non-dairy option, coconut cream works well. Just refrigerate a can of coconut milk overnight and scoop out the thick cream on top.
How Do I Make Sure My Whipped Cream Stays Fluffy?
Whipping cream can be tricky, and it’s important to get it just right. Here’s how to ensure your whipped cream is light and fluffy:
- Start with cold heavy whipping cream. It whips better when it’s chilled.
- Using a clean bowl and beaters can help too; any fat can prevent the cream from whipping properly.
- Whip on medium speed until soft peaks form, then gradually add in powdered sugar. This sweetens and stabilizes the cream.
- Continue whipping until you see stiff peaks. Be careful not to over-whip, as it can turn into butter!
These pointers will help you achieve the perfect fluffy texture for your mini key lime pies!
How to Make No-Bake Mini Key Lime Pies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
For the Whipped Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- Lime slices (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful no-bake mini key lime pie recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep time and at least 4 hours to chill in the refrigerator. It’s a perfect treat to make ahead of time for a refreshing dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir everything together until the crumbs look like wet sand. This mixture will be your crust!
2. Assemble the Crusts:
Press your crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of mini dessert cups or into a muffin pan lined with cupcake liners. Make sure it’s packed nicely so it holds its shape. Set these crusts aside while you prepare the filling.
3. Prepare the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it’s nice and smooth. Then, slowly add the sweetened condensed milk, mixing until everything is well blended. Next, pour in your key lime juice and lime zest, mixing until the filling is creamy and smooth.
4. Whip the Cream:
In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. This means the cream holds its shape when you pull the mixer out of the bowl, which makes for a lovely topping!
5. Combine the Filling and Whipped Cream:
Gently fold the whipped cream into the key lime filling mixture. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream; you want the filling to stay light and fluffy!
6. Fill the Mini Pies:
Spoon the key lime filling into your prepared mini pie crusts. Smooth the tops if you like for a neat finish!
7. Chill Out:
Place the mini pies in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until they’re set and ready to enjoy. This chilling time will help the flavors meld together beautifully!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, top each mini pie with a dollop of whipped cream and a slice of lime for a refreshing finish. Now you’re all set to enjoy your delicious no-bake mini key lime pies!
Can I Substitute Regular Limes for Key Limes?
Absolutely! While key limes give a distinct flavor, regular limes work just fine. Just be sure to use fresh lime juice for the best taste. The proportions remain the same at 1/2 cup of lime juice.
How Can I Make These Mini Pies Dairy-Free?
You can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and replace the heavy whipping cream with coconut cream or a plant-based whipped topping. Check the consistency while mixing to ensure a smooth filling!
Can I Use Store-Bought Whipped Cream Instead of Making My Own?
Yes, using store-bought whipped cream is a great time-saver! Simply spoon it onto each mini pie before serving. For best results, look for non-dairy whipped toppings if you’re going dairy-free.
How Should I Store Leftover Mini Key Lime Pies?
Store any leftover mini pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you haven’t added the whipped cream topping yet, keep it separate until you’re ready to serve for the best texture!
