Tangy No-Bake Key Lime Dessert (Printable)

A tangy key lime dessert that's quick and effortless.

# What You'll Need:

→ Graham Cracker Crust

01 - 1 1/2 cups 150 g graham cracker crumbs
02 - 1/3 cup 70 g granulated sugar
03 - 6 tbsp 85 g unsalted butter, melted

→ Key Lime Filling

04 - 1 can 14 oz/400 ml sweetened condensed milk
05 - 1/2 cup 120 ml key lime juice fresh or bottled
06 - 1 tbsp key lime zest optional, for stronger flavor
07 - 1 cup 240 ml heavy whipping cream
08 - 1/4 cup 30 g powdered sugar
09 - 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

→ Topping

10 - Whipped cream, for garnish
11 - Additional lime zest or lime slices, for garnish

# Directions:

01 - In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until the mixture resembles damp sand.
02 - Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch 23 cm pie dish. Place in the freezer for 15 minutes to set while preparing the filling.
03 - In a large bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest until smooth.
04 - In a separate bowl, use a hand mixer to whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
05 - Gently fold the whipped cream into the key lime mixture until fully incorporated and smooth.
06 - Spoon the filling into the chilled crust and smooth the top.
07 - Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
08 - Before serving, garnish with whipped cream and sprinkle with extra lime zest or lime slices, if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • This pie is a breeze to make, requiring no baking and minimal prep time, perfect for last-minute gatherings.
  • Its bright, tangy flavor is just what you need to cool down on a hot day, and it never fails to impress guests.
02 -
  • I once forgot to let the crust chill, and it crumbled everywhere—chilling is non-negotiable!
  • Adding lime zest to the filling elevates the flavor significantly, so don’t skip it if you can help it.
03 -
  • Use a food processor to finely crush the graham crackers for a perfect texture.
  • For an extra rich flavor, let the pie chill overnight—it makes a difference.
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