These no-bake mini key lime pies are perfect for a quick treat! With a zesty lime filling and a crunchy crust, they are cooling and delicious!
You won’t believe how easy they are to whip up! Just mix, pour, and chill—no oven required! I find it’s hard to eat just one of these little pies! 🍰
Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: You need these for a crunchy base. If you’re gluten-free, you can use crushed gluten-free cookies or even almond flour mixed with melted butter for a different flavor.
Unsalted Butter: This helps bind the crust. If you need a dairy-free option, substitute with coconut oil or margarine, which works just as well.
Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for a rich texture. Low-fat can work, but it may be less creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, try vegan cream cheese.
Key Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed is best for flavor, but bottled juice is a convenient option. If you can’t find key limes, regular limes will do – just know the taste might be slightly different.
Whipped Cream: I love homemade whipped cream for this, but store-bought also works if you’re short on time. You can also use coconut whipped cream for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Get the Perfect No-Bake Filling?
Getting that smooth, creamy filling is key to this dessert! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with softened cream cheese; it should be at room temperature. This ensures it blends in smoothly.
- Beat the cream cheese until it’s completely smooth before adding any other ingredients.
- When adding the sweetened condensed milk, do it gradually. This helps mix everything without lumps.
- Finally, add lime juice and zest slowly, mixing until fully incorporated. This brings out the refreshing lime flavor!
Chilling the pies properly helps them set, so make sure to give them enough time in the fridge. Enjoy your mini treats!
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 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
- 1 tsp lime zest
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For Topping:
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Lime slices or wedges (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time, plus at least 4 hours to chill in the refrigerator. You’ll whip up some tasty crust and creamy filling before letting it set. It’s super simple and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Then, pour in the melted butter and stir everything together until the crumbs are well-coated. It should hold together when pressed.
2. Form the Crusts:
Take the crumb mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of mini muffin tins or dessert cups. Make sure the crusts are nice and compact. Once they’re all done, pop them in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.
3. Prepare the Filling:
In a clean mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk while mixing, combining it until it’s nice and smooth. This is the secret to a rich filling!
4. Add the Flavor:
Mix in the key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Stir well until everything is fully blended. The filling should be bright and tangy, perfect for key lime pies!
5. Fill the Crusts:
Carefully pour the creamy filling into the prepared crusts, smoothing the tops with a spatula to make them look nice. Fill them all the way to the top for a lovely presentation.
6. Chill and Set:
Cover the mini pies with plastic wrap or a lid and place them in the refrigerator. Let them chill for at least 4 hours, so they have time to set and firm up. Patience makes perfect pies!
7. Add the Final Touches:
Once the mini pies are set, take them out of the fridge. Top each one with a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with a lime slice or wedge for that perfect finishing touch.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
These delicious no-bake mini key lime pies are ready to be served chilled. Enjoy every bite of your refreshing treat!
Can I Use Regular Limes Instead of Key Limes?
Yes, you can! Regular limes will work just fine in this recipe. Just keep in mind that they may provide a slightly different flavor profile, as key limes are generally sweeter and have a more intense tartness. You might want to adjust the sugar slightly to taste.
How Do I Store Leftover Mini Key Lime Pies?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their freshness, keep the whipped cream separate until ready to serve. Just be sure to cover them to avoid absorbing any other smells from the fridge!
Can I Make the Crust Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the graham cracker crust in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just keep it covered to prevent it from getting stale. Once you’re ready to make the pies, fill the crusts with the key lime mixture and chill as directed.
Can I Use a Sugar Alternative in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! If you’d like to use a sugar alternative, consider using a granulated substitute like erythritol or stevia, especially for the crust. Just ensure that whatever substitute you choose is a 1:1 replacement ratio for granulated sugar to maintain sweetness and texture!
