Description
This refreshing Key Lime Pie Jars recipe offers a delightful no-bake dessert featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust, tangy key lime filling, and a creamy whipped topping. Perfect for quick preparation and elegant individual servings, these jars are chilled to set the flavors, delivering a zesty and creamy treat that’s ideal for summer or any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full crackers, crushed)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest (from key limes or regular limes)
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped (or 2 cups whipped topping)
Topping and Garnish
- 1 cup whipped cream (or whipped topping)
- Extra lime zest (for garnish)
- Graham cracker crumbs or lime slices (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture is evenly blended.
- Divide Crust Into Jars: Evenly distribute the crust mixture among 6 to 8 mason jars or dessert cups, lightly pressing the mixture into the bottom of each jar (about 2 to 3 tablespoons each) to form a firm base.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest until the mixture becomes smooth and starts to thicken slightly.
- Incorporate Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped heavy cream or whipped topping into the lime mixture until fully incorporated and creamy.
- Assemble the Jars: Spoon the key lime filling over the crust in each jar, filling them about two-thirds full (approximately 1/3 cup of filling per jar).
- Add Topping: Top each jar with a generous dollop of whipped cream or whipped topping, spreading it evenly for a smooth finish.
- Garnish and Chill: Sprinkle extra lime zest over the whipped topping along with a pinch of graham cracker crumbs or place a small lime slice on top for decoration. Refrigerate the jars for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set properly.
- Serve: Enjoy these refreshing key lime pie jars chilled straight from the jars using a spoon for a convenient and tasty dessert experience.
Notes
- Use fresh key lime juice and zest for the most authentic flavor, but bottled juice works well in a pinch.
- The jars can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated to enhance the flavors and texture.
- For a lighter option, you may substitute heavy cream with whipped topping or use low-fat alternatives.
- If mason jars are unavailable, any small individual serving cups or dessert dishes can be used.
- This dessert is best served chilled and consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
