No-Bake Key Lime Dessert Delight (Print view)

Enjoy a creamy, tangy no-bake key lime treat with a graham cracker crust.

# 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

# Cooking Steps:

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 Ideas:

01 -
  • It comes together in just 20 minutes, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy the sunshine.
  • Your friends will wonder if you spent all day on it—it’s that impressive!
02 -
  • Don’t skip freezing the crust; it helps it hold together beautifully.
  • If you can, use fresh key limes for the best flavor—seriously, it makes a world of difference!
03 -
  • Use a rubber spatula when folding in the whipped cream to keep it airy and light.
  • A few extra minutes of patience in the fridge allows for the flavors to mingle beautifully!
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